What is an oral and maxillofacial surgeon (OMS)?

Oral and maxillofacial surgeons are dentists who specialize in surgery of the mouth, face and jaws. After four years of dental school, surgeons receive four to seven years of hospital-based surgical and medical training, preparing them to do a wide range of procedures including all types of surgery of both the bones and soft tissues of the face, mouth and neck.

What is a periodontist?

Periodontists are dentists who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of periodontal (gum) disease. They have had extensive training with two additional years of study after dental school. These dental specialists are dedicated to helping patients care for their gums. A periodontist is one of the eight dental specialists recognized by the American Dental Association.

Why is your dentist referring you to a periodontist?

If your dentist refers you to a periodontist that means your gums may require special attention. The periodontist and dentist will coordinate with each other to develop the best treatment plan to help maintain your periodontitis and prevent further damage to your gums and bone structures. By referring you to the specialist, your dentist is showing a strong commitment to your dental health.

What is an endodontist?

An endodontist examines, diagnoses and treats diseases and destructive processes, including injuries and abnormalities of dental pulps and periapical tissues of the teeth. Endodontists examine patients and interpret radiographs and pulp tests to determine pulp vitality and periapical tissue condition. They evaluate their findings and prescribe a method of treatment to prevent tooth loss.

What is a prosthodontist?

A prosthodontist examines and diagnoses disabilities caused by loss of teeth and supporting structures. They formulate and execute treatment plans for the construction of corrective prostheses to restore proper function and esthetics of the mouth, face, and jaw.

What is a pediatric dentist?

A pediatric dentist has at least two additional years of training beyond dental school. The additional training focuses on management and treatment of a child’s developing teeth, child behavior, physical growth and development, and the special needs of children’s dentistry. Although either type of dentist is capable of addressing your child’s oral health care needs, a pediatric dentist, his or her staff, and even the office décor are all geared to children and making sure their dental experience is pleasant. If your child has special needs, care from a pediatric dentist should be considered.

What is an Orthodontist?

An orthodontist prevents and treats mouth, teeth, and jaw problems. Using braces, retainers, and other devices, an orthodontist helps straighten a person’s teeth and correct the way the jaws line up.



Orthodontists treat patients of all ages who have crowded or overlapping teeth or have problems with jaw growth and tooth development. These tooth and jaw problems may be caused by tooth decay, losing baby teeth too soon, accidents, or habits like thumb sucking. These problems can also be genetic or inherited.

So why would you go to the orthodontist?

Your dentist or someone close to you might recommend seeing an orthodontist because they identify a problem with your teeth or jaws, or you may independently decide to see an orthodontist because you would like straighter teeth.

Call us today to book an appointment with a dental specialist.