Teach preventive care for teeth and gums. Orthodontists treat problems related to crooked teeth, missing teeth and other abnormalities to establish normal function and appearance. Oral and maxillofacial surgeons provide a broad range of diagnostic and treatment services for diseases, injuries and defects in the head, neck, face, jaws and associated structures. Pediatric dentists specialize in treating children from birth through adolescence. They also treat special handicapped patients beyond the age of adolescence.
Periodontists diagnose and treat disease of the gums and the bones which support the teeth.
Endodontists diagnose and treat diseases and injuries of the dental pulp and other dental tissues that affect the vitality of teeth. Prosthodontists replace missing natural teeth with fixed or removable substitutes such as dentures, bridges and implants. Oral pathologists study and research the causes and processional effects of diseases of the mouth. Public Health dentists specialize in preventing and controlling dental disease and promoting dental health through organized commmunity efforts. Others plan, organize, and maintain dental health programs for public health agencies.