Dentistry Careers - Job Options and Career Paths in Dentistry and Dental Care

Doctorate Level Careers in Dentistry

• General Dentist (DDS): A general dentist is similar to the primary care doctor of medicine. The general dentist provides cleanings and general dental health care prevention and maintenance such as teeth cleaning, fluoride treatments, cavity fillings, and root canals.
• Cosmetic Dentists: A cosmetic dentist specializes in aesthetic dentistry, intended to approve appearance more than to improve the patient’s health. Cosmetic dentists may also practice general, or primary dentistry in addition to cosmetic dentistry. Some of the most common cosmetic dentistry procedures are teeth whitening, veneers, and bonding of teeth.

Orthodontist: An orthodontist specializes in the jaw alignment and positioning of the teeth. Orthodontists utilize a variety of methods and oral appliances to help straighten and realign crooked or misaligned teeth. Braces, retainers, and other devices help correct and straighten patients’ teeth. Orthodontists primarily treat younger patients, while they are growing and the teeth are easier to move, but patients of all ages may consult an orthodontist as well.

Periodontist: a periodontist is a dentist who specializes in care of the gums and tissue surrounding the teeth.

Oral Surgeon: An oral surgeon provides surgical care for the teeth, jaws, and facial bones. Patients are typically referred to an oral surgeon by a general dentist or other healthcare professional who may identify the need for oral surgery