Who Is A Dentist: A Complete Detail

Dentist Blog

A dentist is a medical professional who specializes in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of diseases related to the mouth, gums and teeth. A dentist is a specialized doctor and uses DDM (doctor of dental medicine) and DDS (doctor of dental surgery) after their names. A dental team provides treatment for oral health care. It includes a dental assistant, dental hygienist, and dental technicians. 

What a dentist can do?

Most of the dentists are general practitioners and can perform a variety of tasks. Following is the list of tasks performed by a general dentist.  

• Diagnose problems by examining X-rays or digital scans.
• Prescribe medications.
• Remove decay and fill cavities.
• Repair and remove damaged teeth.
• Check the proper growth of teeth.
• Perform cosmetic dentistry like applying sealants or whitening agents.
• Provide counselling for oral hygiene and nutritional guidance.

Dental education and training

A dentist is a doctor and their initial course of study is similar to other medical doctors. A dental school requires undergraduate programs like biology, chemistry, health, or science. For admission into dental school, students need to take a dental admission test (DAT). The dental school training includes two years of biomedical study followed by two years of clinical practice. After completing a BDS degree, dentists require a license to practice.

What are dental specialties?

 After completing BDS (bachelor of dental surgery), a dentist can specialize in one of the following disciplines:

• Endodontics: perform root canal treatment to remove infection and inflammation from the roots of the teeth. 
• Dental public health: provides good oral health and prevention of diseases. Also, provide counselling services. 
• Oral and maxillofacial radiology: diagnose dental diseases affecting head, neck, face, and jaws through radiographic images.
• Oral and maxillofacial surgery: perform surgical procedures on the head, neck, teeth, gums, and jaws. 
• Oral and maxillofacial pathologists: diagnose diseases of the mouth, such as ulcers and bumps, and oral diseases like cancer. 
• Orthodontics: helps in achieving a straighter smile through dental cosmetic procedures like braces and aligners. 
• Pediatric dentistry: deals with dental problems of children. 
• Periodontics: provides treatment for gums and bones supporting the teeth. 
• Prosthodontics: replace missing or broken teeth and associated soft tissues through procedures like bridges and crowns. 
• Dental anesthesiologist: provides drugs to reduce or eliminate pain during dental procedures. 

Job scope

The demand for dentists is expected to rise as any other profession. According to a survey, the employment of dentists and related fields will elevate 3% by 2029. Demand for dental services will increase as the studies link oral health to overall health. More education and counselling for oral hygiene will be needed for a healthy life.

To learn more, contact a local dentist.

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23 March 2021