When it comes to looking after your oral health, choosing the right dental professional is important. Many people are surprised to learn there are different types of dentists who specialise in various areas of dental care. From fixing cavities to performing complex surgeries, each dentist plays a unique role in keeping your teeth and gums in top condition.

If you’ve ever searched for a dentist Adelaide locals trust, you may have come across several titles such as general dentist, orthodontist or periodontist. Understanding what each type does can help you make informed decisions about your dental health. This guide explains the main types of dentists and what they can do for you.

General Dentist

A general dentist is your first point of contact for all things related to oral health. They handle routine dental check-ups, cleanings, fillings and basic procedures such as extractions or crowns. General dentists are trained to diagnose and treat a wide range of dental issues. They also provide advice on maintaining healthy teeth and gums through daily brushing, flossing and diet.

If you’re visiting a dentist for regular care, chances are you’re seeing a general dentist. They often refer patients to specialists when more advanced treatment is needed.

Paediatric Dentist

Also known as a children’s dentist, a paediatric dentist focuses on the oral health of infants, children and teenagers. They are trained to handle the unique dental needs of kids, including early assessments of bite and jaw development, fluoride treatments and sealants to prevent decay.

These dentists also know how to make dental visits less stressful for children. Their clinics often have a child-friendly atmosphere, and they use techniques to keep young patients calm and cooperative.

Orthodontist

An orthodontist specialises in diagnosing and correcting misaligned teeth and jaws. If you need braces, clear aligners or other corrective appliances, an orthodontist is the expert to see. They create treatment plans to straighten teeth, close gaps and improve bite issues, which not only enhance appearance but also help prevent future dental problems.

In Adelaide, orthodontists often work closely with general dentists to ensure patients receive complete care during their treatment journey.

Periodontist

Periodontists focus on the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of gum disease. They also handle the placement of dental implants and treat problems involving the structures that support teeth. If you have symptoms such as bleeding gums, receding gum lines or loose teeth, a periodontist can provide the specialised care you need.

They often perform procedures such as deep cleaning (scaling and root planing), gum grafts and bone regeneration to restore oral health.

Endodontist

Endodontists are experts in treating problems related to the inside of the tooth, specifically the dental pulp and root canals. If you have a severe toothache or infection, your general dentist may refer you to an endodontist for root canal therapy.

This specialist uses advanced tools and techniques to save natural teeth that would otherwise need to be removed. Seeing an endodontist can help relieve pain and restore normal function quickly and effectively.

Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon

An oral and maxillofacial surgeon is trained to perform surgeries related to the mouth, jaw and face. These specialists handle complex extractions (such as wisdom teeth), jaw realignment, bone grafts and facial trauma repair. They also treat conditions like oral cancer and TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorders.

Surgical procedures may be done under sedation or general anaesthesia, depending on the complexity. Oral surgeons often work in hospitals or specialist clinics across Adelaide.

Prosthodontist

A prosthodontist is a dental specialist who focuses on designing and fitting artificial replacements for missing or damaged teeth. They create dentures, dental crowns, bridges and implants to restore the function and appearance of your smile.

Their work is highly detailed and often involves collaboration with dental labs and other specialists. If you’ve lost teeth due to injury, decay or disease, a prosthodontist can help you regain your confidence and comfort when eating or speaking.

Cosmetic Dentist

Although not a formally recognised dental specialty in Australia, cosmetic dentists concentrate on improving the look of your teeth and smile. Services often include teeth whitening, veneers, cosmetic bonding and reshaping.

Many general dentists offer cosmetic services, so if you’re looking for a smile makeover in Adelaide, you may not need to visit a separate clinic. However, be sure to choose someone with experience and positive reviews in cosmetic treatments.

How to Choose the Right Dentist for Your Needs

When looking for the right dentist, start by identifying your primary concern. If you need a regular check-up, a general dentist is the best place to start. If your child needs a dental visit, a paediatric dentist is ideal. For issues like braces or implants, specialists like orthodontists or prosthodontists can provide targeted care.

In many cases, your general dentist will guide you in finding the right specialist. When searching for a dentist Adelaide residents trust, look for qualifications, reviews, clinic facilities and whether they make you feel comfortable and informed during your visits.

Dental care is more than just cleanings and fillings. With various types of dentists specialising in different areas, you can find the right professional for your needs at every stage of life. From keeping your teeth healthy to restoring a confident smile, knowing who to turn to makes all the difference in your dental journey.