Dental Specialties
What is an oral and maxillofacial surgeon (OMS)?
Oral and maxillofacial surgeons are dentists specializing in surgery of the mouth, face, and jaws. After four years of dental school, surgeons receive four to seven years of hospital-based surgical and medical training. This prepares them to do a wide range of procedures involving the bones and soft tissues of the face, mouth, and neck. Dr. Mike and Dr. Janet do surgical extractions. However, if we feel you will be better served by a surgeon, we will refer you. In an emergency, we will assist in contacting and scheduling you with the surgeon.
What is a periodontist?
Periodontists are dentists who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of periodontal (gum) disease. They have had extensive training with two additional years of study after dental school. As specialists, they devote their time, energy, and skill to helping patients care for their gums. A periodontist is one of the eight dental specialists recognized by the American Dental Association.
Why are we referring you to a periodontist?
After your initial periodontal treatment, we may determine that your gums require special attention and refer you. We work with the periodontist as a team to provide you with the highest level of care. We will combine our experiences to recommend the best treatment available while keeping each other informed on your progress. By referring you to the specialist, Dr. Mike and Dr. Janet maintain a strong commitment to your dental health.
What is an endodontist?
The endodontist examines, diagnoses, and treats diseases and destructive processes, including injuries and abnormalities of dental pulps and periapical tissues of the teeth. Dr. Janet manages most of the endodontics needs of the practice. However, she understands her limitations as a general dentist, and Dr. Mike and Dr. Janet may refer you to an endodontist to best service your needs.
Endodontists examine patients and interpret radiographs and pulp tests to determine pulp vitality and periapical tissue condition. They evaluate their findings and prescribe a method of treatment to prevent loss of teeth.
What is a prosthodontist?
The prosthodontist examines and diagnoses disabilities caused by loss of teeth and supporting structures. They formulate and execute treatment plans for the construction of corrective prostheses, which restore proper function and aesthetics of the mouth, face, and jaw. Dr. Mike and Dr. Janet understand their limitations of general dentistry and may refer you to the prosthodontist while continuing you routine dental needs.
What is a pediatric dentist?
A pediatric dentist has at least two additional years of training beyond dental school. The additional training focuses on managing and treating a child’s developing teeth, behavior, physical growth and development, and the special needs of children’s dentistry. Our office is capable of addressing most of your child’s oral health care needs, and we enjoy family dentistry. However we may refer your child, or you may prefer a pediatric dentist. We will support your decision. If your child has special needs, discuss this with Dr. Mike or Dr. Janet, and we will help you decide if you should consider care from a pediatric dentist.
What is an orthodontist?
An orthodontist prevents and treats mouth, teeth, and jaw problems. Using braces, retainers, and other devices, an orthodontist helps straighten a person’s teeth and correct the way the jaws line up.
Orthodontists treat kids for many problems, including crowded or overlapping teeth or problems with jaw growth and tooth development. These tooth and jaw problems may be caused by tooth decay, losing baby teeth too soon, accidents, or habits like thumb sucking. These problems can also be genetic or inherited.
So why would you go to the orthodontist?
Your dentist, a friend, or a parent might recommend it because of a problem with your teeth or jaws. Additionally, if you don’t like the way your teeth look, you may ask to see an orthodontist.
