Family dentistry is a field that provides services related to the general maintenance of dental health and oral hygiene. Although the type of practice is often interchanged with that of general dentistry, there are some minor differences between the two.
Some of them restrict their services to only focus on certain age groups. For example, pediatric specialists specialize in treating young children. This is in contrast to family dentists who generally serve a wide variety of people.
Due to the fact that this type of doctor is considered the first line of defense against dental anomalies, it is mainly considered as a preventive field. It is highly recommended that cosmetic and family dentistry people visit a dentist for a checkup a minimum of 2 times a year. These checkups provide routine cleanings that prevent tooth decay and remove plaque buildup. Fluoride treatments are also provided to help cover teeth as a measure against cavities. Ongoing checkups can easily help detect oral health problems long before they become serious problems.
During some visits, the dentist may take X-rays to help detect cavities and other oral problems. If a cavity is found, your doctor can provide treatment with a filling before a more serious problem develops that could result in a more expensive and painful procedure.
After earning a bachelor’s degree and passing the dental entrance exam, prospective dentists are forced to complete a rigorous three- to a five-year program that prepares them for a position in the field of family dentistry. Before graduating, students must pass the National Board Dental Exam.
Once out of dental school, the vast majority of students choose to move on to practice. Still, others choose to undertake various postgraduate training in a designated specialty.
There are nine specialty fields:
1. Endodontics
2. Dental health
3. Orthodontics
4. Oral and maxillofacial surgery
5. Oral and maxillofacial pathology
6. Oral and maxillofacial radiology
7. Prosthodontics
8. Periodontics
9. Pediatrics
The amount of study required varies according to the type of specialty being pursued
While family dentists are generally associated with preventive and restorative practices, many ends up receiving additional training to provide various cosmetic services, such as veneers and teeth whitening. General dentists who deal with cosmetic procedures in addition to their regular practices tend to refer to themselves as cosmetic and family dentists.
