What does a dentist do?

A dentist is a healthcare professional who diagnoses, treats, and helps prevent problems related to your teeth, gums, and mouth. They provide both routine checkups and treatments for conditions like tooth decay, gum disease, and jaw disorders. Dentists also offer cosmetic and restorative care, such as teeth whitening, crowns, and dental implants, to improve both function and appearance.

When should I see a dentist?

Regular dental care is essential, even if your teeth feel fine. Dentists not only treat problems, but also help prevent them. Routine visits can catch small issues before they become painful or expensive to fix.

Common reasons to see a dentist include:

• Tooth pain, sensitivity, or discomfort
• Bleeding gums or signs of gum disease
• Persistent bad breath
• Jaw pain, clenching, or difficulty chewing
• Chipped, cracked, or missing teeth
• Concerns about tooth alignment or bite
• A desire for cosmetic improvements like whitening or veneers
• It’s been more than six months since your last dental checkup

Find a dentist near you on DenScore and book a visit that fits your schedule.

What types of dentists are there?

Dentists can specialize in different areas of oral health. Here are the most common types:

• General dentists: Provide routine care like cleanings, fillings, exams, and crowns. Most people see a general dentist for ongoing preventive and basic treatment.
• Pediatric dentists: Specialize in dental care for children, from baby teeth through adolescence.
• Orthodontists: Focus on correcting bite issues and straightening teeth using braces, aligners, and other appliances.
• Periodontists: Treat advanced gum disease and provide procedures like gum grafting or dental implants.
• Endodontists: Specialize in diagnosing tooth pain and performing root canals.
• Prosthodontists: Focus on restoring or replacing teeth with crowns, bridges, dentures, and implants.
• Oral surgeons: Perform surgical procedures such as wisdom tooth removal, jaw realignment, and biopsies.

General dentist vs. dental specialist

Most patients start with a general dentist, who provides a wide range of preventive and restorative care. If your condition requires specialized treatment, your general dentist may refer you to a dental specialist like an orthodontist or periodontist. Specialists focus on advanced procedures that go beyond the scope of general dentistry.

What procedures do dentists perform?

Dentists perform a variety of medical and cosmetic procedures to treat and protect oral health. These may include:

• Cleanings and routine exams
• Fillings for cavities
• Tooth extractions
• Crowns and bridges
• Root canals
• Dental implants and dentures
• Teeth whitening and veneers
• Braces or clear aligners
• Oral cancer screenings
• Night guards or mouth guards

Many treatments are handled in-office, while more complex cases are referred to specialists.

How can I find a dentist near me?

If you’re looking for a dentist near you, here are some things to consider:

• Insurance accepted
• Location and office hours
• Appointment availability
• Experience with your concern (e.g., cosmetic needs, gum disease)
• Patient reviews and communication style
• Services offered (general or specialized care)

Use DenScore to search for dentists near you by location, insurance, and availability — and book instantly online.

How to choose the right type of dentist?

The right dentist depends on your needs. For regular checkups or minor issues, a general dentist is a great place to start. If you need specialized care — such as braces, root canals, or implants, your general dentist can guide you to the right specialist.

The content herein is provided for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Medical information changes constantly, and therefore the content on this website should not be assumed to be current, complete or exhaustive. Always seek the advice of your doctor before starting or changing treatment. If you think you may have a medical emergency, please call your doctor or 9-1-1 immediately.