Cosmetic dentistry – the world of porcelain veneers, smile makeovers and beautiful, dazzling smiles. Cosmetic dentistry is just one aspect of dentistry. Dentistry is the science of placement, arrangement, function of teeth and their supporting bones and soft tissues. A dentist studies for about 4-8 years and has a lot of experience with dental problems.

There are nine different specialties that are branched out from dentistry which all require initial education after the initial dental school. These are:

Dental Public Health - the study of dental epidemiology and social health policies
Endodontics - is root canal therapy
Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology - the study, diagnosis, and often the treatment of oral and maxillofacial related diseases
Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology - the study and radiologic interpretation of oral and maxillofacial diseases
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery - the extractions and facial surgery
Orthodontics - straightening of teeth
Pedodontics - pediatric dentistry for children
Periodontics - treatment of gum disease
Prosthodontics - the replacement of missing facial anatomy by prostheses such as dentures, bridges and implants

This will help you understand the field of dentistry better.