A dentist is a health care professional who diagnoses and treats diseases, injuries, and malformations of the teeth, gums, jaw, and mouth. They also instruct patients on good oral health practices.

The profession is in demand, with stable job security and high earning potential. The aging population and increased awareness of oral health issues contribute to this.

Preventive care

Preventive care is essential for avoiding costly dental procedures. It involves daily hygienic practices, regular dental cleanings and professional examinations, and early detection of issues that could lead to serious problems.

Dentists can teach patients about good oral hygiene and recommend the right products to use. They also provide insights into diet and how it impacts oral health. For example, they might recommend consuming foods rich in calcium and phosphate, which can strengthen teeth. They might also advise against clenching or grinding the teeth, a habit known as bruxism, which can damage the teeth and jaws.

Everyone can benefit from preventive dentistry, from newborns to mature adults. In addition to the benefits mentioned above, it can help detect and treat certain health conditions such as diabetes and heart disease. This can improve your quality of life and reduce health care costs. This is because the condition is easier to treat if it is detected early.

Treatment

While practicing good oral hygiene will prevent many dental issues, most people will need treatment at some point. This is where general dentists come in. They perform a variety of procedures to address problems that may arise. Some of these treatments are surgical, while others are not.

X-rays allow general dentists to see inside the mouth and detect issues that are not visible during a visual examination. They can also spot cavities in the earliest stages, which will minimize damage and pain.

Root canal therapy is required when bacteria get into a tooth’s pulp, which contains tiny nerves and blood vessels. The dentist removes the diseased pulp and fills the root canals with a rubbery dental material called gutta percha.

Composite resin, which is matched to the color of natural teeth, can be used to repair damaged areas with tooth-colored fillings. These are a popular option to restore teeth that are cracked, chipped, or decayed.

Cosmetic dentistry

While cosmetic dentistry is primarily concerned with improving the appearance of the teeth, gums, and bite, it can also be used to prevent problems like tooth decay, uneven bite alignment, and gum disease. The treatments can also raise patients’ awareness of the importance of good oral health practices, encouraging them to practice healthier habits that improve their quality of life.

Cosmetic dentists often use dental implants, crowns, and veneers to restore damaged or missing teeth. They may also offer treatments such as gum reshaping, whitening (bleaching), and tooth bonding.

When choosing a cosmetic dentist, look for one with advanced training in these treatments and a proven track record of excellent results. Ask about their credentials, and look for before-and-after photos of their work. In addition, a reputable cosmetic dentist will be a member of a professional association and will stay updated on the latest advancements in their field.

Emergency care

Dentists often identify systemic illnesses and health problems that show up in the mouth, and they can provide early care and preventive measures to help reduce the risk of those problems. They can also play a vital role in identifying and diagnosing patients who have severe and life-threatening conditions that need to be addressed immediately.

They also work with other healthcare professionals to improve the overall health of their patients. They can help patients develop healthier lifestyles by providing them with advice on oral hygiene, diet and exercise. They can also treat gum disease and other dental health issues, as well as replace missing teeth and perform oral surgery.

By nature of their general training, dentists without a specialization can carry out the majority of treatments including restorative dentistry (dental restorations, crowns, bridges), orthodontics, prosthodontics and endodontics as well as performing examinations, taking radiographs and making diagnosis. In addition, they can prescribe medications such as antibiotics, pain killers and sedatives used in patient management.