Dentists practice dentistry primarily to diagnose, prevent, and treat oral diseases and conditions. The dentist’s support team helps in giving good oral healthcare services to patients. In addition, the dentist provides preventive care by conducting periodic teeth examinations to detect possible tooth decay, gum disease, and root canal complications. With proper consultation, a dentist can diagnose dental problems that may require specific treatments, surgeries, or therapeutic procedures.
Dentistry encompasses various fields of medicine that deal with the study, diagnosis, treatment, preventative measures, and hygiene of the teeth and oral cavity of human beings. Dental medicine deals with diseases of the bones and tissues that support the teeth. Periodontics is the branch of dentistry that mainly deals with diseases of the gums and oral cavity, with an additional focus on diseases of the teeth and periodontitis. Dermatology is the branch that studies diseases of the skin and epidermis. Ophthalmology deals with the nerves and other parts of the eye, while orthodontics is related to the treatment of malocclusions, which are the conditions that occur when teeth and other facial structures do not fit into the correct position. Surgery is the major portion of dentistry that entails the surgical procedures that are involved in correcting dental defects.
There are several dental procedures that can be performed by dentists. X-rays are essential tools in the field of dentistry and used for various purposes such as the detection of oral cancers. One such procedure involves the use of x-rays to detect cavities or hidden illnesses. During an x-ray exam, the dentist holds a device called the digital x-ray camera and guides it inside the mouth to capture images of the teeth and its surrounding area. The images are then sent to a laboratory for further analysis.
Some people are afraid to visit a dentist because of frightening experiences they have had in the past. Fear of pain is also a common reason for people to avoid dentists. However, knowing that painless dental treatments exist can reassure people that their dentist will not harm them. Dentists are trained to administer and understand pain management techniques. Before you choose a dental specialty, you should ensure that the dentist you choose has experience and that he treats all types of patients with ease and compassion.
Dental doctors normally diagnose oral diseases through observing the way a patient responds to oral health treatments. The dentist may ask you to undergo a series of dental exams to determine whether you have any oral problems and to pinpoint the exact cause. The doctor will also look closely at your teeth and gums to check for signs of inflammation, tenderness or redness. Immediate attention to such symptoms is crucial since they could signal the presence of more serious dental problems.
A dentist can examine your teeth and gums through normal x-rays, CT or MRI scans, or diagnostic tools like x-rays, photographic imaging devices, or CAT scans. He will also take blood tests or saliva tests to determine the levels of sugar or insulin in your blood or in your saliva. X-rays will help in detecting tooth decay or any abnormal growths in your teeth. These can also reveal any abscesses, cavities, or root canal issues. An x-ray can reveal signs of any serious gum disease or oral cancer.
Dentists can perform several treatments that help you maintain healthy teeth and keep cavities at bay. One effective method is called scaling, where the dentist removes the surface of the tooth to get to the affected area and remove tartar. Another is called scaling and root planing, wherein the dentist implants stainless steel or aluminum caps on the exposed parts of the tooth. After removing the old caps, the dentist then uses scaling and root planing to clean and file your teeth.
To become a dentist, you have to undergo rigorous training at an accredited dental school or technical college. The length of training varies from state to state. Once you are eligible, you can take the state board exam. The license that you obtain would be recognized by the American Dental Association (ADA) ‘s Commission on Dental Accreditation. If you have completed all the requirements and successfully passed the state board exam, you are now ready to register for the first professional dental surgery course.