Daily Column

November 27th, 2008

DEAR DR. GOTT:
I must inform you that twice recently you recognized that a dental consultation was needed, except you said orthodontist when the problem had nothing to do with moving teeth. These patients needed a good general dentist, not an orthodontist.

DEAR READER:
I stubbed my toe. Twice!

The dental field is an extremely specialized one. For example, an endodontist specializes in matters concerning the pulp or inside of the tooth and would be consulted when that portion is infected or inflamed, or if a root canal is required.

A periodontist is trained in diagnosing, preventing and treating gum disease. One might be consulted for dental implants, or to perform cosmetic periodontal treatment.

A prosthodontist is trained to deal with missing teeth, restoration of natural teeth, and restoration of the whole mouth. A specialist in this field would be consulted for dentures, implants and fixed bridges.

Oral and maxillofacial surgeons manage defects and injuries of the mouth, teeth, jaw, and face. Their demanding residency includes rotation through many fields to include general surgery, otolaryngology, plastic surgery, emergency medicine, internal medicine and more.

Let’s not forget the general dentist on the corner, the pediatric dentist and all the additional fields I haven’t covered. There’s an old expression that says “a doctor is a doctor is a doctor”. In the field of dentistry, that saying just doesn’t cut it. I’ll be more careful in the future. Thanks for picking me up on such an important issue.

To give you related information, I am sending you a copy of my Health Report “Medical Specialists”. Other readers who would like a copy should send a self-addressed, stamped number 10 envelope and $2 to Newsletter, PO Box 167, Wickliffe, OH 44092. Be sure to mention the title.