Categories of Dentists in Pembroke Pines

The fact is, dentistry can be a bit confusing.  There are a multitude of dental disciplines and specialties, and it’s not the easiest medicine to navigate.  To help you take the guesswork out of choosing the right dentist in Pembroke Pines, we’ve compiled the most common problems that people have with their teeth and dental health, and the specialists they need for each type of problem.

General Dentist

General dentistry practitioners, evaluate, diagnose, and treat diseases and basic problems of the teeth, gums and mouth, as well as maintain the functionality and aesthetics of teeth and related structures. They can prescribe medication  x-rays, and devices for home or in-office use. Many tooth and gum diseases or abnormalities can be indicative of other diseases, therefore,  a general dentist, or general dental practitioner may refer patients to their physician or a specialist for further evaluation.

Cosmetic Dentistry

Cosmetic dentistry is a field in dedicated to providing better aesthetics in teeth, gums and supporting areas. There really isn’t a formal specialty in this field. All General Dentists can consider themselves a cosmetic dentist.  However, it’s important to understand that not all cosmetic dentists are practice general dentistry.  We’ve compiled a list of cosmetic dentists that have specific training to be specialists in the field of dental cosmetics.

Periodontics

Periodontists are specialists in the treatment of dental patients with periodontal diseases, such as diseases of the gums, jaw bone, cementum and the periodontal ligaments which compose the supporting structure of the teeth.  This includes gingivitis, periodontitis and gingival recession (gum recession).

Endodontist/ Root Canal Specialists

Endodontists are dentists who specialize in root canals and root canal therapy.  To qualify as an endodontist typically requires an additional 2-3 years of training following dental school.

Implant Dentistry

Dental implants currently don’t require a formal specialty in dentistry. Specialists such as oral and maxillofacial surgeons, periodontists, and more recently, prosthodontists play a role in the placement of implant fixtures. However, these procedures are not beyond the scope of general dentists.

TMJ

Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJD, TMJ or TMD), or TMJ syndrome, is a basic term that covers acute or chronic inflammation of the temporomandibular joint, which connects the lower jaw to the skull. Because the syndrome can be treated by several health care disciplines, including TMJ Dentistry, there are a variety of health care treatment choices.

Oral Surgery

An Oral Surgeon and/or  Maxillofacial Surgeon are specialists surgeons treating the entire anatomical area of the mouth, jaws, face, skull, and all associated structures.   Specialists in this field are capable of being registered as U.S. “Board Eligible”, and warrant exclusive titles after four, six, or eight year additional training and medical certifications.

Sleep Apnea

Snoring is the vibration of respiratory structures and the resulting sound, due to obstructed air movement during breathing while sleeping.  A dentist specializing in sleep disorders can prescribe oral appliance therapy (OAT).

Orthodontics

Orthodontics is a specialty of dentistry that is concerned with the study and treatment of  improper bites.  Orthodontic treatment can be carried out for purely aesthetic reasons, improving the general appearance of patients’ teeth and face for cosmetic reasons. However, treatment is often prescribed for practical reasons, providing the patient with a functionally improved bite.

Pedodontist / Pediatric Dentistry

Pedodontists and/ or Pediatric Dentists are specially trained to win the child’s confidence, making the child aware of the responsibility of looking after his or her teeth — and the importance of a healthy mouth.

Full Mouth Rejuvenation/ Prosthodontist

A prosthodontist is a dentist who specializes in the specialty of implant, esthetic and reconstructive dentistry. Prosthodontists specialize in the creating prostheses and restorations (i.e., complete dentures, crowns, implant retained/supported restorations). Cosmetic dentistry, implants and joint problems can all fall under the field of prosthodontics.

Neuromuscular Dentistry

Neuromuscular dentistry covers the harmony and balance of the TMJoint, muscles of the head and neck, posture and teeth as well as the central nervous system. It is a treatment specialty of dentistry that objectively focuses on correcting misalignment of the jaw at the temporomandibular joint.

Neuromuscular Orthodontics

Neuromuscular Orthodontics is a sub-specialty of Orthodontics dealing with aligning, balancing and harmonizing the muscles of the head, neck, central nervous system, temporomandibular joint, and the teeth.

Dentures

Dentures can provide you with a great smile and a very natural appearance. Made of durable materials, they will last a very long  time when correctly taken care of. Normally dentures last from five to ten years. They can also correct numerous problems, from speech to chewing, for many patients.

Sedation Dentistry

Sedation used for dental procedures have proven to be an affective treatment for enabling  fearful and downright phobic patients to receive the dental care they need.  Sedation dentistry provides an ideal alternative to avoiding the severe anxiety some people may associate with dental treatment, known as dental phobia.