Dentistry has many different layers to it. Much like with medical doctors, many dentists choose to focus on particular subjects within dentistry to become experts in that specific field. When looking for a dentist in Baltimore, you want to make sure you find someone who can address your specific concerns. While most dentists are capable of treating a variety of issues, they can’t always treat everything. Finding the right dentist for your needs is key to making sure your smile and bite are taken care of.
Types of Dentists
There are a variety of types of dentists that could be capable of treating your dental concerns. Some dentists may specialize in multiple categories, especially when it comes to overlapping with general dentistry.
General Dentist
For many patients, a visit with their general dentist is often the first step when it comes to a dental concern. General dentists often provide simple treatments for minor dental problems, such as a cavity filling or dental cleaning. General dentists are also capable of identifying the source of pain or discomfort and diagnosing a wide range of dental issues. Even if your general dentist cannot treat the specific problem, they can often provide you with a referral to a specialist who can.
Cosmetic Dentist
Cosmetic dentists provide additional treatment that is designed to improve the natural beauty of your smile. Cosmetic dentists focus on visual improvements through treatment such as porcelain veneers, tooth whitening, botox, or dental bonding. Some cosmetic dentists can even provide minor orthodontic treatment through the use of Invisalign.
Prosthodontist
Restorative dentistry can help improve your smile and bite after your teeth suffer extensive damage or even fall out or need extraction. Prosthodontists specialize in creating dental prosthetics that can repair or replace your natural teeth. A prosthodontist can provide patients with restorative treatment such as a dental crown, bridge, or denture. They also provide restorative treatment for patients who have dental implants.
Endodontist
Severe tooth pain can come from a variety of sources. But when the tooth pulp becomes infected, your general dentist will likely recommend an endodontist. Endodontists are dentists who specialize in complex tooth problems and can perform more invasive treatments such as root canals. Due to the surgical nature of a root canal, endodontists focus their training and treatment on pulp-related concerns above all else.
Periodontist
Patients who suffer from extensive gum disease may benefit from seeing a periodontist. Many general dentists can treat minor cases of gum disease through scaling and root planing. If the disease is more severe, however, your gums may need additional, sometimes surgical, treatment. As such, your dentist may recommend you to a periodontist for further work.
Do You Need a Dentist in Baltimore?
At Cosmetic and Advanced Dentistry, our dentists can provide you with general, cosmetic, and restorative dental treatment. If you have any concerns with your teeth or gums, give us a call at (410) 697-6290 to schedule a consultation. We’ll examine your mouth and find the source of your concerns. If we are unable to treat it ourselves, we’ll refer you to one of our trusted dental partners for further evaluation and treatment.