Dental Specialties

General dentists can perform a broad range of "specialty treatment." In some cases the complexity of a surgery may require a specialist.

As a general and comprehensive dentists, we act as the first contact for patients seeking dental care.

What is an oral and maxillofacial surgeon (OMS)?

Oral and maxillofacial surgeons are dentists specializing in surgery of the mouth, face and jaws. After four years of dental school, surgeons receive four to seven years of hospital-based surgical and medical training, preparing them to do a wide range of procedures including all types of surgery of both the bones and soft tissues of the face, mouth and neck. Most commonly they are known for removing wisdom teeth and placing implants.

What is a Periodontist?

Periodontists are dentists who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of periodontal disease. They have had extensive training with two additional years of study after dental school. As specialists they devote their time, energy and skill to helping patients care for their gums. A periodontist is one of the eight dental specialists recognized by the American Dental Association. Most commonly they are known for performing gum surgeries of all kinds and placing implants.

Why is your dentist referring you to a Periodontist?

Your dentist has determined that your gums require special attention. The periodontist and dentist work together as a team to provide you with the highest level of care. They will combine their experience to recommend the best treatment available to you while keeping each other informed on your progress. By referring you to the specialist, your dentist is showing a strong commitment to your dental health.

What is an Endodontist?

The Endodontist examines, diagnoses and treats diseases and destructive processes relating to the nerves inside the teeth, including injuries and abnormalities of dental pulps and periapical tissues of the teeth.

Endodontists examine patients and interpret radiographs and pulp tests to determine pulp vitality and periapical tissue condition. They evaluate their findings and prescribe a method of treatment to prevent loss of teeth. Most commonly they perform root canal therapy.

What is a Prosthodontist?

The prosthodontist examines and diagnoses complex disabilities caused by loss of teeth and supporting structures. They formulate and execute treatment plans for the construction of corrective prostheses to restore proper function and esthetics of the mouth, face, and jaw.

Most commonly they treat extremely complex restorative cases.

What is a Pediatric Dentist?

A pediatric dentist has at least two additional years of training beyond dental school. The additional training focuses on management and treatment of a child’s developing teeth, child behavior, physical growth and development, and the special needs of children’s dentistry. Although either type of dentist is capable of addressing your child’s oral health care needs, a pediatric dentist, his or her staff, and even the office décor are all geared to care for children and to put them at ease. If your child has special needs, care from a pediatric dentist should be considered. Pediatric specialists can be a great member of a collaborative team especially if a child needs extensive dental treatment or would have the best experience if they were under light sedation. Our goal is to provide the best care with the optimal ease and comfort for our young patients. Please inquire if you have further questions about our philosophy.

What is an Orthodontist?

An orthodontist prevents and treats mouth, teeth, and jaw problems. Using braces, retainers, and other devices, an orthodontist helps straighten a person's teeth and correct the way the jaws line up.

Orthodontists treat kids for many problems, including having crowded or overlapping teeth or having problems with jaw growth and tooth development. These tooth and jaw problems may be caused by tooth decay, losing baby teeth too soon, accidents, or habits like thumb sucking. These problems also can be genetic or inherited.

Typically we will refer our younger patients at age 7 for initial evaluations. Sometimes early intervention can take advantage of growth and avoid more extensive treatment and cost later. This early intervention is called Phase 1. Phase 2 would be considered around age 12 as more of the permanent teeth are present.

Adults more and more are being referred for orthodontic care. Because we are able to treat periodontal disease, people are keeping their teeth longer than they did in generations past. This time horizon and untreated malocclusions have resulted in a whole new set of concerns involving wear and damage. Restoring the joint and teeth to a more stable position may involve orthodontic care for some adults.

So why would you go to the orthodontist?

Your dentist or one of your parents might recommend it because they see a problem with your teeth or jaws. Or a kid who doesn't like the way his or her teeth look might ask to see an orthodontist.