Types of Dentists: Who Does What and When to See Each Specialist

Not all dentists do the same thing and understanding the different types of dentists can help you get the right care when you need it most. Whether you’re dealing with a painful cavity, misaligned teeth, or gum disease, knowing who to turn to can make your treatment faster, more effective, and far less stressful.

In this guide, we’ll walk through the major dental specialties, what each one treats, and when it might be time to see a specialist. From routine exams to complex procedures, here’s how the world of dentistry works together to protect your smile for life.

General Dentist: Your Everyday Oral Health Provider

The general dentist is the foundation of your oral healthcare. They handle:

• Exams and cleanings
• Cavity detection and fillings
• Crowns, bridges, and simple extractions
• Preventive screenings
• Gum disease treatment (in early stages)
• Coordination of care with specialists

Think of your general dentist as your primary dental care provider, someone who gets to know your oral health history and helps you stay ahead of future problems.

Pediatric Dentist: Focused on Children’s Dental Health

Pediatric dentists specialize in caring for infants, children, and adolescents. Their advanced training includes:

• Early oral development
• Child-friendly exams and cleanings
• Behavioral management techniques
• Prevention and treatment of childhood cavities
• Guidance for teething, thumb sucking, and pacifier use

If your child is nervous about the dentist or has unique dental needs, a pediatric dentist can provide gentle, specialized care that supports their long-term oral health.

Orthodontist: Straightening Teeth and Bites

An orthodontist focuses on diagnosing and correcting misaligned teeth and jaws. After dental school, they complete additional years of education in orthodontic treatment.

Orthodontists treat:

• Overbites, underbites, and crossbites
• Crowded or gapped teeth
• Jaw alignment problems
• Tooth movement with braces or clear aligners (like Invisalign)

If you're considering braces for yourself or your teen, or if your bite is affecting your comfort or speech, an orthodontic consultation is a smart next step.

Periodontist: Gum and Bone Health Experts

Gum health plays a vital role in long-term oral function. Periodontists are experts in:

• Treating moderate to severe gum disease (periodontitis)
• Performing deep cleanings and gum surgeries
• Gum grafts for recession
• Bone grafting procedures
• Placing dental implants

If your dentist detects signs of advanced gum disease or you’ve experienced bone loss around the teeth, a periodontist can help restore the foundation of your smile.

Endodontist: Specialists in Root Canal Treatment

If you’ve been told you need a root canal, chances are you'll be referred to an endodontist. These specialists focus on:

• Treating inflammation or infection inside the tooth
• Performing root canal therapy and retreatments
• Managing dental trauma that affects the pulp
• Preserving natural teeth when decay or damage reaches the nerve

Root canals are often misunderstood, but they are highly effective and a far better alternative to tooth extraction when the situation allows. Your general dentist will determine when a referral is necessary.

Oral Surgeon: Surgical Treatment for Complex Cases

Oral and maxillofacial surgeons perform procedures involving the jaw, facial bones, and complex tooth extractions. Their advanced surgical training allows them to:

• Remove impacted or infected teeth (such as wisdom teeth)
• Perform corrective jaw surgery
• Place dental implants
• Treat cysts, tumors, and oral pathologies
• Reconstruct facial trauma or injury

In dental emergencies like facial swelling, trauma, or sudden tooth loss, an oral surgeon may be called in to provide surgical care. For more on what to do in urgent situations, read our blog: Emergency Dentistry: A Guide to Handling Dental Emergencies with Care

Prosthodontist: Restoring Function and Aesthetics

Prosthodontists specialize in restoring and replacing missing teeth using:

• Crowns and bridges
• Full or partial dentures
• Implant-supported restorations
• Full-mouth rehabilitations for complex cases

If you’ve experienced tooth loss, extensive wear, or damage from trauma, a prosthodontist can rebuild your smile for both beauty and function.

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When Should You See a Dental Specialist?

While your general dentist can handle a wide range of treatments, you may be referred to a specialist if you:

• Experience severe tooth pain, infection, or trauma
• Need teeth straightened or your bite corrected
• Have advanced gum disease or bone loss
• Want dental implants or full arch restoration
• Require complex oral surgery or reconstruction
• Need treatment that exceeds the scope of general care

Collaboration between dental providers ensures you get the right care from the right expert just when you need it most.

Trust Your Smile to West Soho Dentistry

At West Soho Dentistry in New York, we believe that personalized care begins with clear communication and trusted guidance. As your general dental provider, Dr. Joanne Oh will help you stay on top of preventive care and when needed, connect you with the right specialists for comprehensive treatment.

Whether you’re looking for a routine exam, support for a specific concern, or help navigating the world of dental specialists, we’re here to make the process seamless and supportive.

Schedule your appointment today and take the next step in protecting your oral health with expert care that meets you where you are.