WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A DENTIST AND A DENTAL SURGEON?

Patients have a wide choice when it comes to dental care, and it can be difficult to know which type of dental professional is best for their current needs. Understanding the differences between general dentists and oral surgeons can help you make an informed choice about your dental care.

When you are due to have a major dental procedure, it is important to choose a professional practitioner to administer your treatment. Although an oral surgeon and a dentist perform similar tasks, there are some key differences that you should understand.

 

What is a dentist?

A dentist treats diseases and conditions that affect oral health. They provide various services including root canals, crowns, fillings, dental veneers and dental bridges… They can also manage basic surgical treatments such as abscess removal and tooth extractions.

What is an oral surgeon?

An oral surgeon is a specialist dentist who generally receives the same training as a general dentist. It deals with more complex surgeries and procedures involving the mouth, jaw or even the face. They also treat cancer patients and accident victims, and sometimes work with healthcare professionals as part of larger surgical teams.

Here is a list of the main roles of an oral surgeon:

  • Extraction of impacted teeth, such as wisdom teeth
  • Complex dental extractions involving bones
  • Placement and alignment of dental implants
  • Removal of oral tumors and cysts
  • Soft tissue removal
  • Reconstructive surgery
  • Jaw bone repair
  • Administration of anesthesia
  • Jaw realignment

The specialties of a dental surgeon:

  • Prosthodontics
  • Periodontics
  • Pediatrics
  • Orthopedics
  • Orthodontics
  • Oral and maxillofacial surgery
  • Oral and maxillofacial radiology
  • Endodontics
  • Oral and maxillofacial pathology

The responsibilities of a dental surgeon

Unlike the dentist who monitors your oral health, performs dental exams, searches for and identifies dental problems, and performs minor procedures such as simple fillings, a dental surgeon cares for patients with oral deformities and ailments related to the jaw. They also perform complex surgical procedures.

Where should I go? Oral surgeon or dentist?

The right choice for you depends on the treatment you need.

If you need routine dental treatment, see a dentist. However, if you have a complicated case where specific surgery should be done, make your way to an oral surgeon who will likely provide you with the care you need.

An oral surgeon may also be required to work with your dentist in case of a dental implant to perform the bone grafting procedure in your jawbone. So keep in mind that your dentist may refer you to an oral surgeon if you need a complicated procedure.

Contact the Targa Dental Clinic today

If you have any concerns regarding your oral health, please contact us today to make a reservation. You can request an appointment online or call us directly with any questions you may have.

Our team of qualified dentists will help you get the right treatment for your needs.

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