Seeing the dentist: questions answered

What can dentists do?

Cleveland Clinic says dentists diagnose and treat conditions of the mouth, teeth and gums. They offer check-ups and preventive care such as cleanings, fluoride and sealants, restorative work like fillings and implants, and cosmetic treatments, and can prescribe anti-anxiety medicines, antibiotics, sedatives and pain relievers when needed. General dentists provide broad, family-focused care. Specialists include endodontists for root canal treatment, oral surgeons for extractions and complex surgery, orthodontists for braces and aligners, pediatric dentists, periodontists for gum disease, and prosthodontists for crowns, bridges and dentures.

Are dentists doctors?

Yes. Cleveland Clinic describes dentists as doctors who help support your overall health. In the United States they use one of two titles, DDS (Doctor of Dental Surgery) or DMD (Doctor of Dental Medicine). Both mean the dentist graduated from an accredited dental school, and the two degrees give the same training and the same scope of procedures. A dentist is not a medical doctor with an MD, but the title doctor is used correctly. See our guide on how long it takes to become a dentist.

How often should you see a dentist?

Cleveland Clinic says the American Dental Association recommends regular exams and cleanings, and that twice a year works for many people but those prone to cavities or gum disease may need more frequent visits. Its page on oral hygiene says routine exams and cleanings are typically needed about every six months, and every three to four months for people prone to cavities or gum disease. See a dentist sooner for a toothache, broken tooth, jaw pain or bleeding gums.

When should a baby first see a dentist?

ADA MouthHealthy says the first visit should happen after your baby's first tooth appears and no later than their first birthday, because cavities can start as soon as teeth come in. The dentist checks the teeth, jaw, bite and gums for developmental problems, injuries and cavities, may do a gentle cleaning, and gives tips for home care. You will likely hold your child in the chair, and crying or wiggling is normal. ADA says either a family dentist or a pediatric dentist can serve as the child's home base for dental care.

What happens at a routine visit?

Cleveland Clinic says a cleaning removes plaque and tartar with hand tools or an ultrasonic scaler, then polishes the teeth, with sealants or fluoride sometimes suggested and X-rays sometimes part of the visit. Most cleanings take 30 to 60 minutes. Our guide on how long dentist appointments take covers duration, and our teeth cleaning guides cover the steps.

Are dentists open on weekends? Do ERs have dentists?

The sources we read do not answer either question, because opening hours vary by practice and emergency departments differ by hospital. Call your dentist's office and listen to the after-hours message, or ask about emergency slots when you register. Cleveland Clinic's advice on seeing a dentist sooner for pain, broken teeth or bleeding gums is a guide to when not to wait. For breathing or swallowing difficulty, or swelling spreading across the face or neck, go to an emergency department.

Choosing a dentist and a specialist

A general dentist is usually the first stop. Cleveland Clinic's periodontist article says a general dentist usually refers you to a gum specialist, who may send you back after treatment. Ask your dentist when a referral is needed, and our guides on the endodontist and periodontist explain what specialists do.

Questions to ask your dentist

Bring a short list to each visit.

• How often should I come in, given my teeth and gums?
• Do I need X-rays, and why?
• Which of my teeth or gums should we watch?
• Is this a general dentist matter or does it need a specialist?
• What should I do if something happens between visits, and who do I call after hours?

Guides in this topic

Frequently asked questions