Why Choose a Specialist?
Happy Valley, OR
 The health of your mouth is important and can affect the health of your whole body. Your general dentist can help you to prevent serious oral health problems, but there are times when you may need a dental specialist. At Fusion Dental Specialists, we specialize in periodontics and prosthodontics, helping to restore the health, function, and aesthetics of your mouth.
What Does a Dentist Do?
A general dentist is an individual who has attended 4 years of dental school. For the most part, these are the people you go to for preventative maintenance, mainly your biannual cleanings and exams. General dentists offer a wide array of services, some of which can be considered specialty services. However, in many instances, your oral health will fare much better with the assistance of a dental specialist.
What Makes Specialists Different?
Dental specialists have attended the same four years of dental school. However, they have gone on to receive three or more years of specialized training in their specialty of choice. Specialists receive classroom education and hands-on training in the latest techniques and technology involved in their chosen field, giving them an extreme advantage over a general dentist, who may only have a general knowledge of a particular specialty.
Types of Specialties in Dentistry
There are nine different specialties in the dental field:
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Endodontics. Endodontists specialize in maintaining the teeth with procedures that involve the interior of the teeth. One of their most common procedures is a root canal.
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Periodontics. Periodontists specialize in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of periodontal disease. They are concerned with the gums, as well as the supporting structures of the teeth.
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Prosthodontics. Prosthodontists are experts in the replacement of missing teeth. They design, manufacture and fit these replacements.
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Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. This area is concerned with the treatment of diseases and injuries involving the mouth and surrounding facial structures.
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Orthodontics. Orthodontists specialize in treating alignment issues with the teeth, most commonly with braces.
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Pediatric dentistry. These dentists specialize in the dental care of children.
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Dental Public Health. This area is concerned with improving the health of a population, rather than an individual. |
Board Certification
Many specialists go above and beyond even their specialized training to become board certified. This certification shows their commitment to excellence, and that they will constantly be updated with the latest techniques and technologies used in their specific field. Specialists also have these technologies in their office, whereas general dentists do not. To receive this certification, specialists must take an exam that consists of four parts, including oral and written tests. They must retake exams every 10 years to maintain their board certification.
Specialists Have Experience
Many general dentists do have some experience in different dental specialties, but a specialist has several years of advanced training and education. A board certified specialist shows you that a specialist not only has the knowledge and the tools to perform specialty treatments, but they also have the experience as well. When you choose a specialist, you can rest assured that your oral health, and your overall health, is in good hands.
If you are in need of periodontic or prosthodontic treatment, contact the experts at Fusion Dental Specialists to schedule your appointment today! |
