Back to Dental Procedures
Dentists
Is there a difference between a D.D.S. and a D.M.D. degree?
All licensed dentists have one of two degrees: D.D.S. (Doctor of
Dental Surgery) or D.M.D. (Doctor of Dental Medicine). Both are professional
degrees in dental health requiring significant training. The training is similar, and for practical purposes, the degrees are the same.
What are the different types of dentists?
General dentists are dental health care professionals who provide
common dental services and treatment, much as a general physician provides
common health care services.
Dental specialists are dental care professionals specially trained
in and practicing a specific type of dental care. The most common dental
specialists are:
- Endodontists treat diseases of and injuries to
the tooth pulp.
- Orthodontists treat misaligned teeth and their
surrounding structures. This is where you get braces.
- Pedodontists treat children from birth through
adolescence.
- Periodontists treat diseases of the supporting
and surrounding tissues of the teeth.
- Prosthodontists address the restoration of
natural teeth and/or the replacement of missing teeth with artificial
substitutes.
- Oral Surgeons perform the removal of teeth and
treat trauma and malformations of the jaw and facial structures.
How do I find a dentist?
- Ask for a recommendation from an acquaintance, physician, pharmacist, or your current dentist (if you are moving).
- Contact a dental society, which may be listed in the phonebook under "dentists" or "associations."
How can I ascertain and reduce the cost of dental treatment?
Discuss the cost of treatment with your dentist before
beginning. Without a dental plan, dental treatment can cost hundreds and even
thousands of dollars. Proper dental care is vital, however, and can even affect
your medical health. It should not be ignored. If you believe you will soon
need a dental procedure, you may want to consider a dental plan to help reduce
your costs.
