They have usually 2 or more years of continuing education after graduating dental school, and most limit their practice to only endodontics. Oral Surgeon is a dentist that performs many aspects of surgery in and about the head area. They also perform biopsies and removal of tumors in the head and neck region. Most place implants in the jaw for future restorations and do complex jaw realignment surgeries. They have usually 4 or more years of continuing education after graduating dental school, and most limit their practice to only oral surgery.
Orthodontist is a dentist that straightens teeth.
They analyze a mouth and surrounding bone structures and determine where the teeth should be. If there is enough room they will manipulate the teeth and bone through the use of bands, wires, elastics, headgears and other appliances to achieve a harmonius balance between facial muscles and teeth. If there is not enough room teeth may have to be extracted to achieve the desired results. They treat children as well as adults, so don't be afraid you are too old to have braces. They have usually 2 or more years of continuing education after graduating dental school, and most limit their practice to only orthodontics.