Some Dentists teach or perform research at schools of dentistry, as well as practice. Oral Surgeons perform surgical operations on the mouth and jaws to remove teeth and tumors or other abnormal growths, and to correct abnormalities in the jaw or other oral structures. Periodontists treat diseased tissues that support the teeth. They clean and polish the teeth and eliminate irritating edges of fillings. They may perform surgery to remove part of an infected or diseased gum.
Prosthodontists specialize in making artificial teeth or dentures.
They correct natural and acquired deformations of the mouth and jaws. Pedodontists specialize in childrens dental problems. Public Health Dentists participate in planning, organizing, and maintaining the dental health programs of public health agencies. They may perform dentistry on selected patients of all ages and assist in the operation of dental clinics. Work Settings Dentists work alone or with a dental hygienist, nurse, dental assistant, or dental laboratory technician.