Dental Specialists

The importance of maintaining good oral health cannot be underestimated. Often times, in order to help meet this goal, dentists call in a variety of specialists. We’re breaking down these specialties to help patients understand the important role they might play in future dental
treatment.

What Kinds of Dental Specialists Are There?

Orthodontist:

Orthodontists specialize in diagnosing, preventing, and correcting misaligned teeth and jaws using braces, aligners, and other orthodontic appliances.

Periodontist:

Periodontists focus on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of gum diseases and conditions affecting the supporting structures of the teeth, such as gums and bone.

Endodontist:

Endodontists specialize in diagnosing and treating problems associated with the dental pulp and root of the tooth. They commonly perform root canal therapy and treat dental trauma.

Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon:

Oral surgeons specialize in performing surgical procedures on the mouth, jaws, face, and neck. This may include complex tooth extractions, dental implants, jaw realignment surgery, and treatment of oral diseases and conditions.

Prosthodontist:

Prosthodontists specialize in restoring and replacing missing teeth and oral structures using prosthetic devices such as dentures, bridges, and dental implants. They focus on restoring both the function and aesthetics of the mouth.

Pediatric Dentist (Pediodontist):

Pediatric dentists specialize in providing dental care to infants, children, and adolescents. They are trained to manage the unique oral health needs of young patients and may also treat individuals with special needs.

Why You Might Be Referred to a Specialist

Reasons to See an Orthodontist

1. Misaligned Teeth:

If you have misaligned teeth, also known as malocclusion, your dentist may refer you to an orthodontist. Orthodontists specialize in diagnosing, preventing, and correcting irregularities of the teeth and jaws. They can recommend and provide treatment
options such as braces, aligners, or other orthodontic appliances to straighten your teeth and improve your bite.

2. Bite Problems:

Problems with your bite, such as overbite, underbite, or crossbite, can affect your oral health and overall well-being. Orthodontists have the expertise to evaluate your bite and develop a customized treatment plan to correct any issues. By addressing bite problems, orthodontic treatment can enhance not only the appearance of your smile but also your ability to chew properly and maintain good oral hygiene.

3. Jaw Growth Concerns:

In some cases, abnormalities in jaw growth or development may require intervention from an orthodontist. Whether it’s an imbalance in jaw size or alignment, an orthodontist can assess the situation and recommend appropriate treatment to promote healthy jaw development and function.

4. Space Issues:

If you have crowded teeth or gaps between your teeth, your dentist may refer you to an orthodontist for evaluation. Orthodontic treatment can help create space, and align your teeth properly.

Understanding Why Your Dentist Might Refer You to a Periodontist

1. Gum Disease Treatment:

If you have gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, your dentist may refer you to a periodontist for specialized treatment. Periodontists specialize in diagnosing and treating gum diseases, including gingivitis and periodontitis. They can provide advanced treatment options such as scaling and root planing, gum surgery, and antibiotic therapy to manage and resolve gum disease effectively.

2. Gum Recession:

Receding gums can expose the roots of your teeth, leading to sensitivity, aesthetic concerns, and potential tooth loss if left untreated. Periodontists are experts in addressing gum recession and can recommend treatments such as gum grafting to restore gum tissue and protect your dental health.

3. Dental Implant Placement:

If you’re considering dental implants to replace missing teeth, your dentist may refer you to a periodontist for implant placement. Periodontists haveextensive training and experience in implant dentistry, ensuring precise placement and optimal integration of dental implants with your jawbone for long-term success.

4. Bone Grafting:

In cases where bone loss has occurred due to periodontal disease or tooth extraction, a periodontist may perform bone grafting procedures to rebuild and regenerate the bone structure necessary to support dental implants or maintain the integrity of your smile.

At Inland Family Dentistry we are thankful to have Dr. Olson on staff to treat all of our patients’ periodontal needs, and providing the added benefit that a majority of treatments can take place in the familiar environment of our dental offices.

Why Your Dentist Might Recommend an Endodontist

1. Root Canal Therapy:

If you have a tooth with infected or damaged pulp, your dentist may refer you to an endodontist for root canal therapy. Endodontists specialize in diagnosing and treating conditions affecting the dental pulp and roots of teeth. They use advanced techniques and technologies to perform root canal procedures, removing the infected or diseased tissue to save the tooth and alleviate pain.

2. Diagnosis of Dental Pain:

When the cause of dental pain is not immediately apparent, your dentist may refer you to an endodontist for a comprehensive evaluation. Endodontists have specialized training in diagnosing the source of dental pain, whether it’s related to issues within the tooth, surrounding tissues, or other oral structures. Their expertise enables them to pinpoint the underlying problem accurately and recommend appropriate treatment options.

3. Treatment of Dental Trauma:

If you’ve experienced dental trauma, such as a cracked or fractured tooth, your dentist may refer you to an endodontist for specialized care. Endodontists are skilled in treating traumatic dental injuries and preserving injured teeth through procedures like root canal therapy, dental bonding, or surgical interventions.

4. Retreatment of Previous Root Canals:

In some cases, a previously treated tooth may develop complications or require retreatment. Your dentist may refer you to an endodontist for expert evaluation and retreatment of the root canal to address any recurrent issues and restore the health of the tooth.

Seeing an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon

1. Complex Tooth Extractions:

When a tooth is impacted, severely damaged, or difficult to remove, your dentist may refer you to an oral surgeon for extraction. Oral and maxillofacial surgeons are trained to perform complex extractions with precision, minimizing discomfort and reducing the risk of complications.

2. Dental Implant Placement:

If you’re considering dental implants to replace missing teeth, your dentist may refer you to an oral surgeon for implant placement. OMSs have extensive training and experience in implant dentistry, ensuring optimal placement and integration of dental implants with your jawbone for long-lasting results.

3. Orthognathic Surgery:

For individuals with jaw misalignment or facial asymmetry, orthognathic surgery may be necessary to improve function and aesthetics. Your dentist may refer you to an oral and maxillofacial surgeon for a comprehensive evaluation and treatment planning for orthognathic surgery.

4. TMJ Disorders:

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders can cause jaw pain, clicking or popping sounds, and difficulty chewing. If conservative treatments are ineffective, your dentist may refer you to an oral surgeon for advanced management of TMJ disorders, which may include surgical interventions to alleviate symptoms and restore jaw function.

5. Facial Trauma:

In cases of facial trauma resulting from accidents or injuries, oral and maxillofacial surgeons are trained to address complex facial fractures, soft tissue injuries, and dental trauma. They can perform reconstructive procedures to restore facial aesthetics and function.

Why You Might See A Prosthodontist

1. Complex Restorative Needs:

If you have extensive dental damage, missing teeth, or complex restorative needs, your dentist may refer you to a prosthodontist. Prosthodontists specialize in restoring and replacing teeth, whether through crowns, bridges, dentures, or dental implants. They have advanced training and experience in creating customized treatment plans to address complex dental issues and restore the function and aesthetics of your smile.

2. Dental Implant Restoration:

If you’re considering dental implants to replace missing teeth, your dentist may refer you to a prosthodontist for implant restoration. Prosthodontists are experts in designing and placing dental prosthetics, ensuring optimal fit, function, and aesthetics. They work closely with oral surgeons or periodontists who place the implants to create lifelike prosthetic teeth that seamlessly integrate with your natural smile.

3. TMJ Disorder Treatment:

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders can cause pain, discomfort, and dysfunction in the jaw joint and surrounding muscles. If conservative treatments are ineffective, your dentist may refer you to a prosthodontist for specialized TMJ disorder treatment. Prosthodontists can design custom occlusal appliances, such as splints or mouthguards, to alleviate symptoms and improve jaw function.

4. Full Mouth Rehabilitation:

For individuals with extensive dental issues affecting multiple teeth, a prosthodontist can provide comprehensive full mouth rehabilitation. This may involve a combination of restorative treatments, such as crowns, bridges, implants, and dentures, to rebuild and restore the entire dentition for improved function and aesthetics.

Why Your Dentist Might Refer Your Child to a Pediatric Dentist (Pedodontist)

1. Specialized Care for Children:

Pediatric dentists specialize in providing dental care to infants, children, and adolescents. They have specific training and experience in managing the oral health needs of young patients, including those with developmental differences or special healthcare needs. By referring your child to a pediatric dentist, your dentist ensures that they receive age-appropriate and child-friendly dental care in a welcoming and supportive environment.

2. Early Intervention for Oral Health Issues:

Early detection and intervention are crucial for preventing dental problems and promoting healthy smiles in children. Pediatric dentists are skilled in diagnosing and treating common childhood dental issues, such as cavities, gum disease, and developmental abnormalities. By referring your child to a pediatric dentist, your dentist ensures that any dental concerns are addressed promptly and effectively, setting the stage for a lifetime of good oral health.

3. Behavioral Management Techniques:

Children may feel anxious or apprehensive about visiting the dentist, which can make dental appointments challenging for both the child and the parent. Pediatric dentists may have special kid-friendly environments to help children feel comfortable and at ease during dental visits. They also use age-appropriate communication strategies, positive reinforcement, and gentle demeanor to create a positive dental experience for your child.

4. Preventive Care and Education:

Prevention is key to maintaining good oral health in children. Pediatric dentists focus on preventive care, including dental cleanings, fluoride treatments, and dental sealants, to protect your child’s teeth from cavities and other dental problems. They also provide valuable education and guidance on proper oral hygiene practices, diet, and habits to empower children and parents to take control of their oral health.

At Inland Family Dentistry we offer a range of services from pediatric dentistry, periodontics, general dentistry, Invisalign, dental implants, and more. However, we are fortunate to have a range of dental specialists who can advise and assist in the treatment of patients as needed.