How many types of dentists are there?

There are at least six types of dentists that practice. A general dentist (family dentists) are the professionals you see for regular cleanings every six months. Then, the orthodontists takes care or minor cosmetic corrections. For example, an orthodontists might be the person to send your children to get their teeth corrected, i.e. getting braces. Usually, they make these corrections for both cosmetic and functional reasons.

Then, there is the oral and maxillofacial surgeon, who focuses on the soft tissues in and around the mouth. For example, the gums, cheeks, lips, hard and soft palates, tongue and facial tissues are all areas this professional would focus on. A periodontists focuses on preventing and diagnosing gum issues.

Prosthodontists are responsible for replacing damaged, decaying or missing teeth. They usually replace damages to teeth with crowns, dentures, tooth implants, and veneers. Finally, the endodontist is responsible for taking care of the inner part of the tooth (or the pulp). When this area is inflamed, damaged, or rotten through injury, they try to treat or preserve the tooth.