Types of Dentists: How to Choose the Right Dental Professional

Types of Dentists

Types of Dentists: How to Choose the Right Dental Professional

Choosing the right dentist can feel confusing—especially when you see titles like family dentist, pediatric dentist, or specialist. While all dentists are trained to care for teeth, each type focuses on different needs, age groups, and treatments. Understanding these differences can help you make confident decisions for yourself and your family.

At the core of dental care is the general or family dentist, who serves as the primary dental provider for most patients. When advanced or specialized treatment is needed, your general dentist may refer you to a dental specialist. All dentist in Ontario are registered through the RCDSO.

Like any profession, dentistry includes different roles, each with specific responsibilities. The guide below will help you understand who does what—and when you may need them.

General Dentist (Family Dentist)

A general dentist is a health professional primarily responsible for overall oral health care. This includes diagnosing and treating common dental issues such as tooth decay, cracked teeth, and routine restorative needs. General dentists also work closely with other dental team members to identify and manage gum problems like bleeding or inflammation.

Together with specialists, the general dentist plays a central role in maintaining a patient’s overall oral health. When advanced treatment is required, the general dentist coordinates care and provides referrals to the appropriate specialist.

Dental Specialists in Canada

Dental specialists undergo additional years of training beyond dental school to focus on specific areas of oral health. In Canada, recognized dental specialists include:

• Orthodontists
• Pediatric Dentists
• Endodontists
• Periodontists
• Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons
• Oral Pathologists
• Oral Radiologists

Other essential members of the dental team include dental hygienists and dental assistants, who support both patients and dentists in daily care.

Orthodontist

An orthodontist specializes in aligning teeth and correcting bite problems. They provide braces and orthodontic appliances, including clear aligners, invisible trays, and removable devices. Orthodontists complete additional specialized training to become experts in straightening teeth and improving bite alignment.

Pediatric Dentist

A pediatric dentist specializes in treating children, including infants, toddlers, and young patients. They complete additional training focused on managing children in a dental setting and addressing the unique dental needs of growing mouths.

Endodontist

An endodontist specializes in treating infected or cracked teeth. Their advanced training focuses on the dental nerve inside the tooth, making them experts in root canal treatment and related procedures aimed at saving natural teeth.

Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon

An oral surgeon is a specialist trained to perform surgical procedures in and around the mouth. This includes tooth removal, wisdom teeth surgery, dental implants, biopsies, and treatment of oral disorders. Oral surgeons undergo intensive surgical training, and a common reason for referral is wisdom tooth removal.

Periodontist

A periodontist specializes in treating conditions that affect the gums and supporting tissues of the teeth. Their services include gum surgery, deep cleaning of gum pockets, tissue grafting, crown lengthening, and dental implant placement. Periodontists complete extensive training to become experts in gum health.

Oral Pathologist

An oral pathologist focuses on diagnosing diseases affecting the soft and hard tissues of the mouth. They analyze biopsies and study conditions involving the oral and surrounding structures to help guide accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Oral Radiologist

An oral radiologist specializes in taking and interpreting dental radiographs. They analyze imaging to help dentists and patients understand structures, disorders, and conditions affecting oral and facial areas. This specialty requires additional training in dental imaging and diagnosis.

Prosthodontist

A prosthodontist completes advanced training in restoring and replacing teeth. Their work includes crowns (caps), veneers, repairing natural teeth, restoring dental implants, and performing full-mouth smile makeovers.

Dental Hygienist

A dental hygienist is a key member of the dental team responsible for care during routine recall visits. Their role includes examining teeth, cleaning and polishing, providing dietary advice, and offering oral hygiene instructions. If you have questions about brushing techniques or choosing the right toothbrush, a dental hygienist is the best professional to ask.

Types of Dentists – Comparison Table