Oral and maxillofacial surgeons are highly specialized dental professionals who diagnose and treat complex dental, jaw, and facial problems. They perform a variety of surgeries, such as correcting cleft paddles, reconstructing misaligned jaws, and installing dental implants. They also treat more serious issues, such as obstructive sleep apnea and oral cancer. Oral and maxillofacial surgeons may work in a hospital or office setting and are usually referred to by a patient's dentist or primary care physician.
Endodontists are dentists who specialize in diagnosing and treating tooth pain caused by a problem inside the tooth pulp. They perform root canal treatments and other procedures to save and restore teeth, rather than removing and replacing the tooth. The American Association of Endodontists notes that endodontists perform a greater number of root canal procedures than general dentists. Dental specialists are licensed dentists who have completed additional training in a specialized area of oral health. Careers for dental specialists include orthodontists, prosthodontists, endodontists, periodontists, oral surgeons, and maxillofacial surgeons.
As a dental specialist, you specialize in one area of dentistry to provide special care for your patients. Dental assistants are members of the dental team who assist the dentist with a variety of procedures, including x-rays, keeping patient records, and helping patients feel comfortable. Most states require dental assistants to be certified, which generally requires training, experience, and passing an exam. Dental assistants work in dentists' offices and often work with a single dentist rather than in a hospital. Dental receptionists are the guardians of the dentist's office. They are responsible for greeting patients, answering phone calls, and scheduling appointments.
Dental billers are responsible for processing insurance claims and billing patients for services provided. They must be organized and accurate to keep track of an ever-changing billing system. After finishing dental school, professionals may have a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DDM) degree, depending on their area of study. This includes a four-year undergraduate program, four years of dental school, and four to six years in a residency program. Oral and maxillofacial pathologists work in dental schools, hospitals, clinics, and research laboratories. If you're interested in a dental career, learning more about the different specialties and their salaries could help you determine which one is best for you.
Entering the highest-paying dental specialty can take 12 to 14 years of education and training after high school. There are many different types of work in the dental industry ranging from laboratory technicians to dentists. Dental hygienists need at least an associate's degree although bachelor's degrees are becoming more common. A periodontist is a dental specialist who treats patients with gum diseases, injuries or defects.
