What can I specialise in after studying the 5-year dentistry course?

Often when it comes to dentistry people think the jobs are limited to just fillings, fixing teeth and giving braces. However, there are many more jobs and areas to specialise in within dentistry, such as:

·      Paediatric Dentistry

·      Endodontics

·      Orthodonticts

·      Oral Surgery

·      Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery

·      Prosthodontics

·      Periodontology

Paediatric Dentistry

Paediatric dentists work with children; they should be able to examine, treat children and use adaptive communication to explain dental terms in a way for them to understand. Many children are scared of going to the dentist and so paediatric dentists aim to lessen this fear and increase the chances of them continuing to look after their teeth. The specialism of paediatrics is important for the nation’s health as without proper dental care children may face oral decay or diseases that continue into adulthood. Another way in which this specialism is vital is its role in educating children on the correct way to look after their teeth. To become a paediatric dentist, two years of residency are required after finishing dental school.

Endodontics

Endodontic dentists specialise in treating and diagnosing tooth pain and other problems which may affect the root tissues and dental pulp. They perform procedures such as fixing cracked teeth, root canal treatment and dental implants. To become an endodontist, two years of specialist training is required after dental school.

Orthodontics

A very popular specialism and one more people visit in their lives are orthodontists. Orthodontics is a specialism used to improve the alignment and appearance of teeth. They help correct misaligned bite patterns, the position of the jaw etc. To become an orthodontist, applicants must have completed dental school and two years of training before taking part in a three-year specialised training programme to become an orthodontist.

Prosthodontics

Prosthodontists specialise in repairing and replacing damaged teeth, and fixing dental/ facial problems by restoring teeth and jaw structures. One procedure done by a prosthodontist would be installing removable dentures for any lost teeth. After completing dental school and two years of clinical experience, you can sign up to a three-year prosthodontist specialised course.

Bear in mind that many aspiring dentists do not choose their specialisms until after obtaining a dental degree. Even those who come into dental school with their heart set on a certain dental career path often end up changing their mind. If at this stage in your dentistry journey you are unsure what part of dentistry you would like to work in, that is perfectly okay! Good luck on your dentistry journeys!