Dental specialties are a diverse range of treatments that go beyond the scope of general dentistry. Endodontists, orthodontists, periodontists, prosthodontists, and pediatric dentists all have their own unique set of skills and techniques that make them experts in their field. Endodontists, for example, have undergone two or three years of advanced training beyond dental school and possess incredible precision and hand-eye coordination. This makes them highly qualified to perform complex treatments and use the most specialized and advanced technology to treat tooth pain and perform root canal treatment.
Dental anesthesiology is another specialty that is recognized by the National Commission for the Recognition of Dental Specialties and Certification Boards (NCRDSCB). This specialty focuses on treating pain, anxiety, and the general health of the patient during dental, oral, maxillofacial, and complementary surgical or diagnostic procedures. In most countries that recognize specialties in dentistry, the specialist is limited to practicing in the specialty and cannot carry out the practice of general dentistry. This means that general dentists must refer patients to specialists for more complex treatments.
Dentists must also disclose any relevant information to their patients so they can make an informed purchase decision. To become a licensed dentist in a particular state, an emerging dentist must apply to the appropriate state dental board. Pediatric dentistry or pedodontics is an age-defined specialty that provides primary and comprehensive preventive and therapeutic oral health care to infants and children during adolescence, including those with special health care needs. Dentists who wish to advertise themselves as specialists must successfully complete an advanced education program accredited by the Dental Accreditation Commission (or its equivalent if completed before 1964) in each area they wish to advertise. They must also disclose any monetary or other interests they may have in a company whose products are promoted or supported in their presentation.
