Categories: Uncategorized

Understanding the Roles of Dentists and Oral Surgeons for Proper Dental Care

Taking care of our oral health is essential for overall well-being, but it can be confusing to know who to turn to for different types of oral health concerns. If you are unsure whether to see a dentist or an oral surgeon, this blog post will clarify the roles of each and when to seek their help. By understanding their different areas of expertise, you can receive the appropriate care and maintain good oral health.

The Roles of Dentists and Oral Surgeons:

Dentists

Dentists are healthcare professionals who specialize in diagnosing and treating a variety of dental issues. They can provide preventive care, as well as restorative treatment for common dental problems such as cavities and gum diseases. To become a dentist, one must complete a Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) or Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree and obtain a license to practice in their state.Dentists play a crucial role in maintaining oral health by screening for potential problems and providing early treatment. They can also perform several types of procedures, including fillings, root canals, crowns, bridges, and veneers. However, if a dental issue requires more complex treatment, a dentist may refer the patient to an oral surgeon.

Oral Surgeons

Oral surgeons specialize in dental surgeries, which include procedures like reconstructing injuries or defects, correcting TMJ issues, removing wisdom teeth, and performing dental implant surgeries. They must complete dental school and then a residency program in oral and maxillofacial surgery, which typically takes four to six years. Unlike dentists, oral surgeons do not provide preventive care or simple treatment for dental issues such as cavities. Their focus is different, providing specialized surgical treatments for more complex dental issues. For example, wisdom teeth removal is a common procedure performed by oral surgeons because these teeth are often impacted or difficult to reach. Dental implant surgery is another complex procedure that requires specialized training and experience.

Collaboration between Dentists and Oral Surgeons

Collaboration between dentists and oral surgeons is essential for providing the best possible care for patients. A dentist may refer a patient to an oral surgeon if the dental issue is beyond their scope of practice, such as a complex extraction or dental surgery. Oral surgeons may also refer patients back to a dentist for follow-up care, such as fitting a dental implant with a crown.Collaboration between healthcare professionals, including dentists and oral surgeons, ensures that patients receive the appropriate care for their specific needs. Good communication and teamwork between dentists and oral surgeons lead to better patient outcomes and ensure that the patient receives the right treatment.

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding the roles of dentists and oral surgeons is crucial for good oral health. Dentists specialize in diagnosing and treating common dental issues, providing preventive care, and treating minor dental problems. Oral surgeons provide specialized care for more complex dental issues requiring surgical intervention. Collaboration between dentists and oral surgeons ensures that patients receive the appropriate care for their specific needs. Whether you need preventive care or specialized surgery, proper dental care is essential to maintain your oral health and overall well-being.

Have More Questions? Call Us Today!

For those looking for a trusted provider of dental care, look no further than St. George Dental Care. Their team of experienced professionals is dedicated to helping you achieve a healthy and beautiful smile. Whether you need routine teeth cleaning or more extensive treatment, they have the skills and expertise to deliver outstanding results. And if you’re wondering what DMD stands for, it’s Doctor of Dental Medicine, a degree earned by dentists who have completed rigorous training and education in the field of dentistry. So, check out St. George Dental Care today and experience the highest quality of dental care available.

Schedule with Saint George Dental Care Today

Request an appointment here: https://www.stgeorgedentalcare.com or call St. George Dental Care at (435) 628-9099 for an appointment in our St George office.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.

Recent Posts

Veneers Vs Dentures—Which Is Right For You?

Your smile is one of your most valuable assets, and maintaining it can significantly impact your confidence and overall well-being. When it comes to improving or restoring dental health, two popular options often come into consideration: veneers vs dentures. But which is right for you?At St. George Dental Care, we believe in empowering our patients…

Permanent Crown Solutions: Everything You Need To Know

A damaged or decayed tooth can impact your smile, confidence, and oral health. Fortunately, dental advancements such as permanent crowns provide practical solutions to restore both function and appearance. For residents in St. George, Utah, St. George Dental Care offers professional and dependable care for all your crown needs. This blog will cover everything you…

Can Wisdom Teeth Cause Sore Throat? Find Out Here

When it comes to oral health, wisdom teeth regularly make their way into conversations about the problems they often create. But one question that's frequently asked and not as widely discussed is this: can wisdom teeth cause a sore throat? The short answer is yes, they can—but it's not a common symptom. At St. George…

Exploring Types Of Veneers: Which One Is Right For You?

Veneers are one of the most popular cosmetic dental treatments available today, offering a simple solution to transform your smile. Whether you're tackling discolored, chipped, or uneven teeth, this treatment provides a pathway to achieving a stunning, confident smile. At St. George Dental Care, our experienced team has helped countless patients achieve their dream smiles…

St. George Dental Care

Next The Importance of Proper Toothbrush Care and Bathroom Hygiene »

Previous « Understanding Plaque and Tartar: The Importance of Oral Hygiene

Published by

St. George Dental Care

1 year ago

Define Debridement: A Guide from Real Dentists
Maintaining oral health goes beyond regular brushing and flossing. Certain dental procedures are key to…
Top 10 Facts You Should Know About Dry Socket
Dry socket might not sound too alarming until you experience it. If you've recently had…
Should You Consider Getting a Toothbrush Case?
Oral hygiene is a key part of maintaining your overall health, and for many people,…