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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.
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