What is Dentistry?

Dentistry is a crucial field of healthcare that is dedicated to the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases and disorders of the oral cavity. It encompasses a wide range of procedures and techniques, including regular cleanings, restorations, cosmetic dentistry, orthodontics, and oral surgery. 

Dentists also work closely with other healthcare professionals, such as hygienists, assistants, and laboratory technicians, to provide comprehensive care to their patients. With advances in technology and research, dentistry continues to evolve, providing patients with more options and better outcomes than ever before. (1)

Overview and Definition

Dentistry is the medical specialty that concentrates on oral health, which includes teeth, gums, and mouth. Its primary objective is to study, diagnose, prevent, manage, and treat diseases, disorders, and conditions of the oral cavity, with a particular emphasis on the development and positioning of teeth, as well as the oral mucosa. The field of dentistry may also cover other areas of the craniofacial complex, including the temporomandibular joint. 

In addition to addressing oral diseases, dentistry also deals with the correction of jaw malformations, teeth misalignment, and congenital abnormalities of the oral cavity, such as cleft palate. 

Along with general practice, the field of dentistry is comprised of several specialties and subspecialties, including dental orthopedics and orthodontics, pediatric dentistry, periodontics, prosthodontics, oral and maxillofacial surgery, oral and maxillofacial pathology, endodontics, public health dentistry, and oral and maxillofacial radiology. (2)

Education and Training 

To become a dentist, an individual must complete extensive education and training. In most countries, this typically involves earning a bachelor's degree in a science-related field, followed by admission to a dental school program. The dental school typically takes four years to complete, and during this time, students gain both practical and theoretical knowledge related to oral health and dentistry.

After completing dental school, graduates must pass a licensing exam to become licensed to practice dentistry in their state or country. Some countries also require additional training or residency programs to become a specialist in areas such as orthodontics or oral and maxillofacial surgery.

Continuing education is also a crucial aspect of a dentist's career, as new techniques and technologies are continually being developed in the field. Many dentists participate in ongoing education programs, such as workshops and conferences, to stay up to date on the latest advancements in dentistry and to maintain their licensure.

Overall, the education and training required to become a dentist are rigorous and demanding, but they are necessary to ensure that dental professionals have the knowledge and skills required to provide high-quality oral health care to their patients. (3,4)

Practicing as a Dentist 

Practicing as a dentist can be a challenging but rewarding career path. Dentists work to promote and maintain oral health by diagnosing and treating various conditions of the teeth, gums, and mouth. They also help prevent dental issues through patient education and regular check-ups.

Dentists may work in private practices, clinics, hospitals, or other healthcare facilities. They often work in a team with dental hygienists, assistants, and other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive care to their patients. They may also collaborate with other specialists, such as orthodontists, oral surgeons, and periodontists, to develop treatment plans for complex cases.

In addition to diagnosing and treating dental issues, dentists also perform procedures such as fillings, extractions, root canals, and crowns. They may also provide cosmetic dental services such as teeth whitening and veneers. Dentists must possess excellent manual dexterity, communication skills, and attention to detail to perform these procedures effectively.

Continuing education is also necessary to keep up with advancements in dental technology and techniques. Overall, practicing as a dentist requires a strong commitment to lifelong learning, patient care, and a passion for promoting oral health. (5,6,7)

Procedures Performed

There are various procedures performed in dentistry to maintain oral health and address dental issues. These procedures can be classified into several categories:

• Teeth Cleanings 

Dentists often recommend getting a cleaning every six months or once a year, as it's an important part of oral health. Teeth cleanings are done using tools that are more efficient than a toothbrush, and the procedure is relatively painless.

• Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening is a simple and relatively painless procedure that most dental offices can perform. At-home kits require extra time and effort, while in-office bleaching is quicker and safer because it's performed by professionals using a special hydrogen peroxide gel and light source.

• Veneers 

Veneers are a popular solution for crooked or discolored teeth. They're thin coverings placed over the front of a tooth or set of teeth and are mainly used for correctional purposes, but they can also be used for whitening. The process is simple and painless for most people.

• Root Canal Treatment

Root canals are necessary when the tissue inside or under a tooth is infected and inflamed. The procedure involves deadening the nerve and removing the tissue, and while it can take a few hours, patients will be numbed during the process.

• Bonding 

Bonding is a less invasive way to repair damaged or chipped teeth using a resin that's tinted to match the natural shade of patients’ teeth. It's an easy procedure that can take a little while.

• Fillings 

For cavities, fillings are the recommended answer. Filling a cavity is a quick procedure that usually takes about an hour, and patients will likely be numbed during the process.

• Extractions 

Extractions may be necessary for various reasons, but dentists will make every effort to ensure patients are comfortable during the procedure. Patients will likely be numbed or unconscious, so patients won't feel any pain.

• Crowns 

Crowns are used when a cavity is too big for a filling or the top part of a tooth has decayed. It's usually a two-visit procedure, but it's painless and involves taking a molding of patients’ teeth, crafting a properly fitted crown, and securing it onto the decayed area.

• Braces/Invisalign 

Braces and Invisalign are used to straighten and correct crooked teeth, with Invisalign being less visible and slower acting than traditional braces. The procedure may cause a little discomfort, but it's not extreme.

• Dentures 

Dentures are meant to replace teeth naturally and are typically removable. Fitting for dentures takes a while, but it's worth it to have a full set of working teeth again. (8)