A dentist is a doctor who diagnoses and treats oral health issues. The most basic services dentists provide are preventative and regular maintenance treatments, such as, cleanings, fluoride treatments, X-rays (to look for cavities), cavity fillings and advice on proper brushing, flossing, and rinsing for the prevention of plaque buildup.

Dental specialists include:

Endodontists specialize in treating diseases of the tooth pulp and root
Oral pathologists identify and treat diseases of the oral and maxillofacial regions (oral cavity, salivary glands, and jaws)
Oral radiologists use radiological imaging, like x-rays, MRI, and ultrasound, in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions affecting the structures of the oral and maxillofacial regions
Orthodontists prevent and correct improper bites as a result of irregularly positioned teeth and/or disproportionate jaw relationships, often through the use of braces and retainers
Pediatric dentists specialize in the oral health of adolescent patients
Periodontists diagnose and treat diseases of the gums, like gingivitis and periodontitis
Prosthodontists restore deficient teeth and replace missing teeth through the use of prosthetic replacements, like dentures, crowns, and veneers
Family dentists specialize in the treatment of oral health issues of entire families, caring for patients of all ages

The area of Hopkinton, MA has a population of approximately 14,925 people. There are 9 dentists near Hopkinton, which gives it a ratio of 1 dentist per 1,658 residents or a ratio of 1 dentist per 551 households. There are 4,957 households in Hopkinton.