When most people talk about visiting a dentist, they are thinking about a general practice dentist where they might go to have a routine check-up, to have their teeth professionally cleaned or when they are experiencing toothache. However, in addition to general practice dentistry, a dentist can choose to undertake further study and become a specialist in a particular area of dentistry. Depending on the nature of an oral issue, a family dentist may refer a patient to a specialist. Here is a helpful overview of some of the different areas of dentistry.

General dentistry

This is the type of dentist you would see on a regular basis. Your family dentist will concentrate on the general area of the mouth and the condition of your teeth and gums. A general dentist recommends checking your teeth once or twice a year. General dentists provide regular maintenance and assist with a patient’s oral hygiene. They will professionally clean your teeth, remove plaque build-up and provide minor routine treatment, such as fillings. Should the dentist be concerned with a particular area of your mouth, such as your gums, they will generally refer you to a specialist dentist to have the issue further assessed and treated. Some general dentists will also offer minor cosmetic procedures, such as teeth whitening, to their patients.

Cosmetic dentistry

Cosmetic dentistry concentrates on techniques and procedures that will improve how a patient’s teeth present to others. These include teeth whitening, tooth veneers and cosmetic dental bonding. Many general dentists will offer some types of cosmetic dentistry techniques to their patients and it is becoming more common for dental surgeries to specialise in cosmetic techniques. Cosmetic dentists are often general dentists who have chosen to focus in this area. A cosmetic dentist will assess your smile, teeth and gums and make recommendations on how best to maximize their appearance. Other specialists may perform some of the treatment procedures recommended by a cosmetic dentist. While there is no formal qualification, a dentist specialising in cosmetic dental consultations should ensure their training is up-to-date and new treatment options are explored and offered at the surgery.

Periodontics

A periodontist is a dental specialist focusing on the structures around a tooth, such as the gums, the nearby bone and the ligaments. In order to specialise in this area, a dental degree must first be achieved. Additional study is then completed at a post-graduate level to attain the specialist qualification. Should your family dentist recognise any issues concerning your gums or any of the structures supporting your teeth, you would be referred to a periodontist for assessment. Should you need implant surgery or gum restructuring, you would likely visit a periodontist.

Orthodontics

Orthodontics is an area of dentistry that focuses on the bite and position of teeth in the mouth. An improper bite can cause a variety of different conditions, including sore jaws and headaches, and excessive wear on teeth. Orthodontists diagnose and treat teeth that have become misaligned, both to improve the appearance and to ensure long-term oral health and comfort. An orthodontist will also offer treatments such as teeth braces or plates, designed to change the position of the teeth and jaw over time. Additional study is required once a general dentistry qualification has been achieved in order to specialise in this area.

Should you have concerns about any aspect of your dental health, make an appointment with your regular dentist to discuss your options.