Ever wondered what the differences are between the various types of dentist in Chatswood? From orthodontists to radiologists, this article outlines the roles of each one and when you might need to see them.
There are a range of oral healthcare professionals in Smile Craft Dental or other dental clinics that you might have to deal with when working through oral health issues, whether it’s for your gums, teeth or mouth overall. They each perform different roles. Here are the professionals you may encounter:
General Dentist in Chatswood
Your general dentist in Chatswood is the first person you’ll normally visit, and is your primary care provider. They diagnose, manage and treat oral healthcare requirements, performing things like fillings and root canals.
Your professional will have completed a Bachelor’s degree as well as four extra years of training in order to work. This makes them highly qualified and experienced at performing the work that they do.
Public Health Clinics
You can access cheaper (or even free) oral healthcare services at public clinics, which are generally government funded. These clinics aim to support community-wide healthcare and prevent and manage oral diseases. They provide education, resources and services to help the local community.
Endodontist
If you have a tooth nerve or pulp injury or disease, you’ll likely be referred to an endodontist, a dentist in Chatswood who helps treat such matters. They generally perform surgical root procedures.
Radiologist
If you need an oral x-ray done, you’ll probably have to see a radiologist, who will take these images for you. They will also interpret the images so that they can diagnose, inform and help you manage your condition.
Oral Medicine
If you have a condition which requires the use of oral medicine, you will likely have to visit such a specialist. They usually work with people who have diseases such as candidiasis, oral cancer or lichen planus.
Oral Pathologist
Oral pathologists focus on the causes of oral diseases (from the teeth and lips to the jaws and cheeks), extending into the neck. This type of dentist in Chatswood is generally sent tissue or biopsies by other healthcare providers and they then analyse these samples and provide a report.
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon

If you ever need oral surgery such done, you’re likely to be referred to one of these professionals. They often work with accident victims who have suffered from a facial injury such as a broken jaw. They also do implants, reconstructive surgery, deal with tumours, extract soft tissue and roots, and repair fractured cheeks and lips. They are required to complete an extra 4-8 years of study to work in this role.
Orthodontist
It’s likely you’ve heard of or even visited an orthodontist. They are experts in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of so called “bad bites”, where the teeth and jaw are misaligned. They work by straightening the teeth using things like braces, wires, retainers and bands. They work with both children and adults.
Pedodontist
That being said, if you want to see a child-focused dentist in Chatswood, a pedodontist is the way to go. They specialise in diagnosing and treating children’s oral healthcare problems. Children are generally considered to be aged between 1-18. They often perform work on decayed, crowded, missing or crooked teeth. They have completed at least two extra years of training, learning how to deal with children’s behaviour, growth & development, and special needs.
So there you have it – each of the main types of dentist in Chatswood that you might need to visit. Ensure to speak to your primary healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns.
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