Anyone will tell you what to do and who to see in matters of dental health can impact how they fare. There is a difference between a dentist and a denturist, and this is something that many people do not understand. Which ones are used, and what are their functions in caring for your mouth and teeth? Now that you know a dentist, let’s delve deeper into understanding what a denturist is and who is more suitable for your dental problem.
What Is a Dentist?
A dentist is a doctor who is trained to diagnose and manage diseases affecting the teeth, gingiva, and the whole periodontium. Other treatments, including tooth whitening and application of dental veneers, specialize in diagnosing and treating conditions related to teeth, gums, and the entire oral cavity. Dentists typically hold a degree in dentistry (DDS or DMD) and can perform a wide range of procedures, including:
- Routine check-ups and cleanings
- Cavity fillings
- Root canals
- Gum disease treatment
- Tooth extractions
- Cosmetic treatments like teeth whitening and veneers
Dentists not only work on the teeth but also on the entire mouth. They can diagnose problematic symptoms such as oral cancer, infections, or any other general disease in the body whose symptoms manifest in the mouth region. This treatment approach guarantees solid teeth and gum conditions and general health for a lifetime.
What Is a Denturist?
A denturist, on the other hand, is a dental professional specializing in creating, fitting, and repairing dentures. They typically work with patients who have lost some or all of their teeth and require prosthetic replacements. Their expertise includes:
- Full and partial denture fabrication
- Denture fitting and adjustment
- Denture repair and maintenance
- Providing advice on denture care and cleaning
While dentists are well-trained to diagnose oral problems and treat them in several different ways, denturists are specially trained to deal with tooth loss and the use of dentures. They also involve the patients when fixing dentures to make sure that they fit well and are in harmony with the rest of the natural teeth.
Key Differences Between a Dentist and a Denturist
Understanding the core differences between a dentist and a denturist is crucial when choosing who to visit for dental care.
Education and Training
Dentists undergo extensive education, typically a 4-year undergraduate degree followed by four years in dental school. Their training covers various oral health issues, including restorative and preventive care.
Denturists focus their education on creating and fitting dentures. While their training is specialized, it is shorter than the comprehensive education required for dentists.
Scope of Services
A dentist can perform various procedures beyond dentures, including surgical procedures, preventive care, and cosmetic treatments.
A denturist is specifically trained to provide denture services, including manufacturing, fitting, and repair. They do not perform general dental care or surgery.
Expertise
Dentists are well-versed in all aspects of oral health and can help treat various conditions. They can also diagnose oral health issues early, preventing more severe problems later.
Denturists are specialists in tooth replacement and provide expert care for patients needing dentures. They are the go-to professionals for personalized, well-fitting dentures.
When to Visit a Dentist
Visiting a dentist is crucial for maintaining overall oral health. Here’s when you should consult a dentist:
- You need a routine dental check-up.
- You have tooth pain, cavities, or gum issues.
- You want cosmetic treatments such as veneers or teeth whitening.
- You need a tooth extraction or root canal treatment.
Regular visits to the dentist are essential for preventing and treating a wide array of dental problems. By keeping up with regular check-ups, you can ensure your oral health stays in optimal condition.
When to Visit a Denturist
A denturist is a professional to see if you’re missing teeth and considering dentures. You should visit a denturist if:
- You need new dentures (partial or full)
- Your existing dentures don’t fit comfortably
- Your dentures are broken or need repair
- You want expert advice on caring for your dentures
Denturists specialize in denture care, so their services are invaluable if you’re dealing with tooth loss.
Can You See Both?
Sometimes you could need to attend a dentist and a denturist, for various reasons. For instance, a dentist will diagnose that a patient requires a denture because of severe tooth loss while a denturist will both fashion and build the dentures. It is always wiser to work with both of them this way, you can be accorded total care of your dental issue.
Making the Right Choice: Dentist Vs Denturist
Choosing between a dentist and a denturist depends on your dental needs. Dentists, with their expertise in preventive and general dental care, are the go-to professionals for oral health. On the other hand, if your focus is on dentures, a denturist specialized in this area is the professional you should consult.
Conclusion
Both dentists and denturists are highly important in maintaining the health of your mouth. Dentists are involved in general, cosmetic and preventive dental care, with concerns about your teeth and your gums. However, denturists focus on creating, positioning, and managing dentures to enable patients with-lost teeth to smile again.
At Northeast View Dental, we are able to provide both services from the comfort of your dentist, for convenience. If you’re looking for a simple cleaning and examination or considering dentures, our trained and friendly staff can help.
Transform your dental health the first step is to Contact us today for an appointment with the best dental professionals.