General Dentists and Dental Specialists
Most people go to a dentist in general practice whenever they have a problem with their teeth. For more advanced care, a dental specialist may be helpful. Many general dentists in NH are in solo practice and refer patients out when they need to see a specialist. At NHCCD we’ve committed to create a practice where patients can be cared for by their general dentist and specialists on the same team, in the same practice. It’s comprehensive and very convenient.
DMD or DDS
All dentists in New Hampshire, whether they are in general practice or are specialists, have earned either a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree. There isn’t any difference in the education or qualifications between these two; it’s simply up to the various universities to determine which degree they want to award.
Both DMD and DDS degrees qualify NH dentists to become licensed and practice general dentistry. A general dentist is trained to diagnose, prevent, and treat diseases and conditions of the mouth, jaw, and related body structures. Treatment can include both surgical and non-surgical procedures of the teeth and gums, the tissues of the mouth, jaw bones, and the bones and muscles of the jaw joint.
In addition to the DMD or DDS, New Hampshire dentists can pursue a specialty, requiring additional education and training. At NHCCD our team includes two specialists most commonly needed by our patients: Endodontics and Periodontics.
Endodontics
Endodontists are dentists who specialize in the function and form of the tooth pulp. The tooth pulp is the innermost layer of the tooth, and it contains veins, arteries, and nerves. Endodontists also understand, diagnose, and treat diseases and injuries of the pulp, and work to prevent those conditions. Root canal therapy, in which infected tooth pulp is removed and the tooth restored, is a typical endodontic treatment.
Periodontics
Periodontists are dentists who specialize in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of periodontal disease, and in the treatment of oral inflammation. Periodontists use a range of surgical procedures to treat patients with severe gum problems. They are also specially trained in the placement of dental implants, including tooth extractions, bone and tissue grafting. As more and more patients are exhibiting signs of periodontal disease, and with additional research that suggests a relationship between periodontal disease and other chronic diseases of aging, our periodontist has become an important part of our dental team.
Has this information been helpful? Do you have comments or questions? Let us hear from you!