Do You Need a Dental Surgeon or a Dentist? | Emergency Dentist

Emergency Dental Clinics Of Boise • Apr 07, 2023
Dentist of Boise

Boise Emergency Dentist Discuss the Difference Between Dental Surgeons and Dentists | Comparing the Two: Which One is Better?

The debate on whether a dental surgeon is better than a dentist has been ongoing for many years. With advancements in modern dental practices, it can be difficult to decide which type of professional is best suited for one’s needs. Dental surgeons and dentists both have unique skills that are beneficial to those seeking oral health care treatments. Dentists in Boise will explore the differences between these two professionals, considering their qualifications, services provided, and clinical specialties.


Dentists generally obtain a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree or a Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry (DMD) degree. These degrees focus on preventive care as well as diagnosis and treatment plans. They also receive extensive training in patient communication and management, pharmacology, and other medical sciences related to oral health care. A dentist may provide general practice procedures such as fillings, crowns, bridges, and root canals, among others.


In contrast,
dental surgeons require more advanced schooling compared with dentists. In addition to obtaining either the DDS or DMD degrees, they must complete an accredited residency program, usually lasting three to four years after graduation from dental school. Their scope of practice includes not only basic preventative care but also complex surgical techniques such as extractions, implants, bone grafting, and corrective jaw surgery. They may also be able to specialize in areas like pediatric dentistry or orthodontics because they have earned more credentials through postgraduate study.


A comparison between these two professional groups reveals significant differences in scope and qualifications, which ultimately determine if someone is better suited to be either a dentist or a dental surgeon. People can make decisions about their own health care needs that are best for them if they know enough about both professions.


Understanding The Different Qualifications Between A Dental Surgeon And Dentist

A dental surgeon and a dentist possess different qualifications. A dental surgeon, also called an oral and maxillofacial surgeon, must complete four years of college plus four to six additional years of specialized training in the field of surgery after obtaining a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree or a Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry (DMD) degree. During this period, they gain experience in areas such as anatomy, anesthesia, pathology, radiology, pharmacology, and general medicine. After they finish their studies, they have to get a license from the state where they work before they can do surgeries.


In contrast, dentists don't need any more training in surgery than what they learn in dental school. Most dentists earn either a doctorate of dental surgery (DDS) or a doctorate of medical dentistry (DMD), which typically requires four years of schooling and includes courses on topics like pharmacology and biochemistry. After they finish their studies, they must pass tests given by the
American Dental Association's Commission on Dental Accreditation in order to get a license to work as a dentist.


Both professions require extensive knowledge about teeth, gums, and other parts related to oral health care. But a dental surgeon may be better than a dentist when it comes to treating complex cases like reconstructive jaw surgery or facial trauma caused by accidents or tumors. This is because a dental surgeon has a more comprehensive education that includes general medicine and patient management skills.


The Role Of An Dental Surgeon

An oral surgeon is a person who can do things that a dentist can't. Since they operate on patients, they have to work in clean, antiseptic conditions in hospitals and often have to stand for lengthy periods of time. As surgeons, they also need to have very good fine motor skills because they have to be very accurate while making cuts or sewing up patients. This covers things like taking out teeth that are stuck, hard surgeries, bone grafting, and more.


  • Tooth extraction
  • Tooth extractions that are more complicated and involve dealing with the bone
  • Removing of an impacted wisdom tooth
  • Dental implants and implant alignment
  • Treatment for oral cancer includes tumor removal


The Role Of A Dentist

Dentists are experts in the treatment of patients' teeth. They may help treat other oral health conditions, such as gum disease. Dentists work largely in dentists' offices or clinics, mostly during the day with occasional evening and weekend shifts. Dentists can get infectious diseases, so they have to work in sterile environments and wear protective gear. As they treat patients, they must stand and bend while performing their duties.


Depending on the dentist, a general dentist will typically conduct the following procedures:

  • Routine dental examinations and radiographs
  • Fillings and sealants for cavity treatment
  • Artificial crowns and bridges are installed to replace lost teeth.
  • Root canals are used to repair tooth deterioration and injury.
  • Care of the gums to prevent and treat gingivitis.


Who Do You Visit? An Oral Surgeon Or A Dentist?

The best person to help you depends on what kind of care you need. When you require regular dental care that only a dentist can give, they will be the ones to take care of you. If your condition is serious or you need a specific operation, you will probably need an oral surgeon.


If you require a dental implant but don't have enough bone in your jaw to support it, for example, you could need an oral surgeon. Together with your dentist, an oral surgeon might do the treatment to put the bone in your jaw. This process will make sure that your dental implant has the support it needs.


Don't forget that if you need a sophisticated surgery, your dentist can send you to an oral surgeon. If you're not sure what you need, don't be hesitant to
go to the dentist.


Need Help With Your Dental Care? Contact Emergency Dentist Boise Today

To conclude, it is evident that a dental surgeon and dentist both have their own unique areas of expertise. Even though they may do similar things, each profession has a different set of requirements and a different range of tasks. A patient who needs complicated or advanced care might do better with a dental surgeon, who has more skills and experience than a regular dentist.


The decision to see either professional should be based on individual circumstances and needs. A patient who needs complicated or advanced care might do better with a dental surgeon, who has more skills and experience than a regular dentist.


Overall, people who need oral health care should think about the type of procedure being done as well as other things like qualifications, certifications, and credentials when deciding which professional is best for them.


According to the proverb, "a stitch in time saves nine," and speaking with a qualified specialist can help you avoid expensive treatments in the future due to a false diagnosis or subpar care. Therefore, it is important to select the correct person for optimal results.

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