Choosing the Right Type of Plantation Dentist that Suits Your Needs

Aside from dentists, a dental team consists of dental hygienists, dental assistants, and dental technicians. These team members assist the dentist in providing oral health services.

Dental Hygienists

Having a dental hygienist as part of your dental care team can greatly benefit your oral health. These professionals are well-educated, trained, and licensed to provide advice on preventing oral health issues like gum disease and tooth decay. They also help patients establish effective oral hygiene routines at home.

Dental hygienists work in various settings, including underserved community clinics, where they perform cleanings, educate patients on oral health, and offer therapeutic services. They may also conduct diagnostic tests and even run their own practices.

In addition to dental offices, dental hygienists may work in hospitals, nursing homes, or other healthcare centers. The demand for dental hygienists is expected to increase, with a projected growth rate of 20% by 2026, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

These professionals are trained to perform a range of procedures, such as plaque removal, fluoride application, x-rays, and teeth whitening. They can also assist patients in quitting smoking and adopting healthy eating habits.

To practice, dental hygienists must pass state licensing exams, including written and clinical tests, and complete continuing education requirements.

While striving to keep patients on schedule, dental hygienists also accommodate late appointments and emphasize the importance of honest dental care habits to prevent serious issues.

Orthodontists

Whether for cosmetic or medical oral care needs, consulting an orthodontist can help identify and address teeth and jaw problems. Their expertise in diagnosing and treating dental issues, along with their focus on proper teeth and jaw alignment, sets them apart from general dentists.

Orthodontists are attentive to detail and recommend suitable treatment plans, such as braces or other devices for teeth alignment. They can perform extractions and procedures to enhance smiles, catering to both cosmetic and functional concerns.

While dentists and orthodontists offer similar services, orthodontists specialize in a broader range of oral care options and collaborate with dentists when necessary.

An orthodontist’s training and advanced technology utilization enable them to deliver comprehensive oral care, ensuring long-term dental health and aesthetics.

Oral Surgeons

Oral surgeons are highly trained specialists who go beyond general dentistry to handle complex jaw and facial issues. With specialized training in complex surgical procedures, they can address bone and gum tissue problems and administer anesthesia safely.

They perform a range of surgeries, including oral cancer treatments and facial reconstructions post-cancer therapy. They are skilled in procedures like wisdom teeth removal, dental implants, bone grafts, and corrective jaw surgery.

Oral surgeons also handle intricate facial surgeries like cleft palate repairs and tooth extractions, emphasizing patient care and surgical expertise in various oral and facial procedures.