Dental specialties can be confusing. Many people don’t know who to see for their dental problems. Which dental issues does a dentist handle, and which one does an orthodontic surgeon resolve? You’ll likely see a general dentist first, then an orthodontic surgeon in Santa Barbara, CA, for complex or underlying problems.
What Does a General Dentist Do?
Most people who need primary dental care will see a general dentist. This professional can identify and treat various oral health problems. They will provide exams, tooth whitening, and primary tooth extraction. In addition, they will perform more involved procedures like root canals and dental crown placement. Your dentist may suggest seeing an orthodontic surgeon to diagnose and treat conditions affecting your mouth’s bones and tissues.
What Does an Orthodontic Surgeon Do?
An orthodontic surgeon in Santa Barbara, CA, corrects underbites, overbites, or tooth crowding and ensures teeth alignment. They can also remove impacted wisdom teeth and handle complex tooth extraction. If you have misaligned teeth or growth deformations, there’s a good chance you’ll see a dental surgeon.
Typical training for orthodontic surgeons focuses on tissues, bones, and the jaw, mouth, and face connecting structures. Jaw and facial structures can get damaged due to congenital disabilities, disease, or trauma. Treating these dental issues requires orthodontic surgery, which can take months or even years.
Dentists and orthodontists handle different aspects of dental care and treatment, and each professional plays a vital role in promoting oral health. If you’re looking for an orthodontic surgeon in Santa Barbara, CA, to help with tooth alignment or bite, contact Orthodontics of Santa Barbara to schedule a consultation.
