Many people don’t think that dentists and oral surgeons are one in the same. And while both are trained dental health professionals, the services provided by each are quite different. In this article, we are going to explain the differences between dentists and oral surgeons, take a look at the care that each can provide, and talk about when to see which one.
Dentists
A dentist earns a DDS (Doctor of Dental Surgery) degree from a qualified medical school and performs most of the care and procedures people imagine when they think of going to the dentist. In general, dentists can provide the following services:
- Routine dental health exams and cleanings
- Cavity fillings
- Cosmetic procedures like bonding
- Crowns & bridges
- Gum care
- Sealants
- Root canals
- Implant restoration
Oral Surgeons
An oral surgeon spends about 4-8 more years in dental school than a dentist. As a result, they are more specialized and typically focus on more complex procedures. If you need to see an oral surgeon, your dentist will likely refer you to one. Here are a few services commonly provided by oral surgeons:
- Wisdom teeth removal
- Impacted or complex tooth removal
- Tumor extraction
- Implant post placement
- Removal of soft tissue
Dental Healthcare in Bloomington, MN
Dr. Tim Brooks and the team at Smiles for Life dental clinics make it a point to provide compassionate, unparalleled patient care to each and every person who walks through our doors. With years of experience, Dr. Brooks has the skills needed to handle all of your family or cosmetic dental health needs. Whether you need a crown, or you just want to make an appointment for a cleaning, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Give us a call today to set up your appointment with Dr. Brooks at our Bloomington dental clinic.