Patients with advanced or severe dental problems are often referred to a specialist dentist Devon by their general dental practitioner for complete dental rehabilitation. A specialist dentist Devon is a dental professional who has undergone further training in a specific field of dentistry and has a higher level of professional knowledge of dental problems and related treatment methods in their chosen dental field.
There are four main branches of specialist dentistry: periodontics, endodontics, prosthodontics and restorative dentistry. At Yealmpton Dental Practice, we are delighted to offer superior-quality dental care in each of these fields.
The main difference between a general dentist and a specialist dentist Devon is that a specialist dentist has the knowledge, training and experience in dealing with complex dental problems. Both general and specialist dentists carry out standard dental treatments and procedures.
What is endodontics?
Endodontics is a field in specialist dentistry that focuses on saving teeth that are at risk of decay. You may be well familiar with dental procedures such as root canal therapy that treats infected dental pulp. If this infection is not treated, the problem can spread and affect the entire root canal system, triggering the formation of an abscess.
Root canal therapy is time-consuming and requires the particular skills of a specialist dentist. The life benefits of endodontics focus on preservation, prevention and restoration. A specialist dentist will work towards preserving healthy tooth structure, preventing the dental problem from causing further havoc and restoring natural dental appearance and function.
What is periodontics?
The specialist dentist who has devoted their training and education to the care of gums is referred to as a periodontist. If your gum disease has advanced to the stage of periodontitis, you will be asked to see a periodontist for treatment.
Tackling severe gum disease is hugely important as this dental disease can have far-reaching consequences for not only your dental health, but overall physical and mental wellbeing. Periodontitis can lead to complications with the bone that supports your teeth which means that there is a risk of tooth loss if not treated.
Dental practitioners have additional concerns for a patient’s physical health. The oral bacteria that give rise to the development of gum disease are now known to enter the bloodstream. These disease-causing bacteria can travel via the bloodstream to reach the cardiovascular and respiratory systems where they cause inflammation and clogged arteries and veins.
Treating gum disease is a long drawn-out process so patients must do all they can to protect the health of their gums.
What is prosthodontics?
When you require dental care to replace missing teeth, you will see a prosthodontist. Prosthodontic devices that replace missing teeth include fixed and removable devices such as crowns, bridges, and dentures. These may also be supported by dental implants.
Having missing teeth can open up a whole host of challenges that affect eating, smiling and speech. It is important in order to restore dental function and improve oral health that you find a suitable prosthodontic device to suit your needs and protect your quality of life.
What is restorative dentistry
Restorative dentistry looks at the treatment of any dental disease that affects the oral cavity and teeth including their supporting structures. This means that restorative dentistry can include elements of other branches of the specialist dentary in forming a comprehensive treatment plan.
At Yealmpton Dental Practice, our specialist dentist welcomes referrals for specialist dental treatment. You can book a consultation by contacting our reception desk directly.