Seeing a Specialist 101

If your dentist recommends visiting a specialist, don’t fear. We have compiled a list of helpful tips and information about the various dental specialties.
When referred to a specialist:
- First, research the type of specialist you were referred to by your dentist.
- Next, make sure they’re a participating Delta Dental dentist.
- Finally, check your benefit coverage levels by reviewing your dental plan handbook or visiting our Member Connection.
Want to know more? Below is a list of common dental specialists:
Endodontists perform root canals. They treat diseases and injuries of the dental pulp or the tooth nerves.
Fun fact: On average, endodontists perform nearly 25 root canal treatments a week, while general dentists perform less than two.
Do you need oral surgery? Then you’ll be seeing an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. They treat patients with a variety of ailments, from removing wisdom teeth, to treating tumors and cysts in jaws, as well as accident victims with facial injuries.
If you have a misaligned teeth, you’ll likely be referred to an orthodontist. This specialist straightens teeth by with the use of bands, wires, braces, and other corrective appliances. Check your plan to make sure orthodontia is covered.
If you were referred to a periodontist, they specialize in treating your gums (the soft tissues of the mouth) and the supporting bones – your jaws. ** teeth are not bones, please don’t reference for future blogs.
Most general dentists have relationships with specialists in their communities. Ask for their recommendation on where you should seek specialty care.
Comments
- Delta Dental,
- delta dental network,
- delta dental of wisconsin,
- delta dental providers,
- dental benefit blog,
- dental benefit terms,
- dental benefits,
- dental definitions,
- dental plans,
- dental specialists,
- endodontists,
- Find a dentist,
- low cost dental care,
- oral and maxillofacial surgeon,
- oral health literacy
Related stories
-
Keeping A Clean Toothbrush Routine [INFOGRAPHIC]
Ten million microbes can live on your toothbrush at a time. Learn how to keep a clean … Read More
-
Preventing Child Abuse and Neglect: Detection Can Start at the Dentist
Clean teeth and superior dental health are obvious benefits for children receiving regular dental check-ups. However, when … Read More
-
Caught in the Middle: Insurance Tips for the Sandwich Generation
Middle-aged adults are finding themselves financially “sandwiched” between two generations: their children and aging parents. This dual … Read More
Sign Up Now
Tweets
Poll

Most Liked
- 1 Do Expiration Dates on Dental Products Matter? 298 Likes
- 2 Is Activated Charcoal Safe for your Smile? 153 Likes
- 3 Crazy and Cool Fish Teeth Facts 88 Likes
- 4 Delta Dental Protects Your Eyes with DeltaVision® Coverage 56 Likes
- 5 Recipe: Quick Pumpkin Pudding 48 Likes
- 6 The In-between Tooth: Guide to Bicuspids 47 Likes
- 7 Bad Taste After Brushing? Common Explanations 43 Likes
- 8 Own Your Oral Health: Subscribe now for tips to ensure a bright smile 37 Likes
- 9 How COVID-19 Impacts Oral Health 34 Likes
- 10 People with Dental Benefits are Healthier 29 Likes
Most Commented