Difference between general dentistry and specialty dentistry?
General dentistry and specialty dentistry are two different areas of dental practice. General dentists provide a wide range of dental services, while specialty dentists focus on a specific area of dentistry.
General dentistry
General dentists are trained to provide a variety of dental services, including:
* Preventive care: This includes cleanings, fluoride treatments, and sealants to help prevent cavities.
* Restorative care: This includes fillings, crowns, bridges, and dentures to repair damaged or missing teeth.
* Endodontics: This includes root canal treatment to save teeth that are severely damaged.
* Periodontics: This includes treatment for gum disease, such as scaling and root planing.
* Oral surgery: This includes procedures such as wisdom tooth extraction and dental implants.
Specialty dentistry
Specialty dentists are trained to focus on a specific area of dentistry, such as:
* Orthodontics: This specialty focuses on correcting misaligned teeth and jaws.
* Periodontics: This specialty focuses on the treatment of gum disease.
* Endodontics: This specialty focuses on root canal treatment and other treatments for the inside of the teeth.
* Prosthodontics: This specialty focuses on the replacement of missing teeth, such as with crowns, bridges, and dentures.
* Pediatric dentistry: This specialty focuses on the dental needs of children.
* Oral surgery: This specialty focuses on surgical procedures such as wisdom tooth extraction and dental implants.
Choosing a dentist
When choosing a dentist, it is important to consider your individual needs and preferences. If you are looking for a dentist who can provide a wide range of services, a general dentist may be a good option. If you have a specific dental problem, you may need to see a specialist.
Cost of dental care
The cost of dental care can vary depending on the type of treatment you need and your location. General dentists typically charge less than specialty dentists. However, the cost of dental care can also vary depending on the dentist's experience, the type of materials they use, and the technology they use.
Insurance coverage
Most dental insurance plans cover the cost of preventive care and some restorative care. However, the coverage for specialty dental care can vary. It is important to check with your insurance company to see what services are covered.
Finding a dentist
There are many ways to find a dentist. You can ask your friends or family for recommendations, or you can use a search engine to find dentists in your area. Once you find a few dentists, you can call their offices to ask about their services and fees.