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If you think that dentists only treat teeth and tooth decay, then you are having a limited conception. There are many of us we love to have excellent oral health and have a natural set of teeth all our lives. However, there are exceptions. One of the most predominant diseases found in children, for example, is the cavity.
A lot of people stay far from dentists as they associate them with pain. It is not true. Dentists encourage that you go for a yearly examination so that they can diagnose, prevent and treating any disorders and conditions at an early stage. This can include the routine checkup of the neck, jaw, face, salivary glands and tongue regions.
You need to understand that our oral cavity is not a standalone section of the body.Dentists play an important role in ensuring that you are overall healthy. Sometimes, some health conditions originate in the mouth and its surrounding areas. When you go for a regular dental exam, dentists will examine signs such as ulcers, lumps, and discolorations in the entire facial area. However, skipping dental examination can lead to other health issues in the future.
What are the different specializations a dentist can do?
Some of the different branches of dentistry specialization are as follows:
- Endodontics
- Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics
- Periodontics
- Prosthodontics
- Pediatric Dentistry
- Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology
- Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology
- Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
- Dental Public Health
What is the typical role dentist’s play?
The responsibilities of dentists include the following:
- Diagnose oral health conditions.
- Help in maintaining oral health and prevent diseases.
- Prepare plans for treatment for maintenance and prevention of oral health issues of patients.
- Analyze and interpret x-rays and dental reports.
- Make sure that anesthetics are administered safely.
- Supervise growth and development of jaws and teeth.
- Perform different surgical procedures on teeth, the soft tissue of the oral cavity, and bone.
Sometimes even simple dental procedures like extraction of a tooth, placement of tooth fillings or giving an aesthetical smile makeover to a patient can have risks of infection or nerve damage, pain, hematomas, and bleeding. So, it is very important that dentists keep an eye on their clinical team so that such risks are reduced.
Why should you visit dentists regularly?
Regular visits to your dentist will keep your mouth and teeth in good health and also help to keep the other parts of your body healthy. Dentists are important because:
- Dentists help prevent tooth decay.
- You are protected against periodontal or gum disease, which can result in bone and tooth loss.
- They help to prevent bad breath. If you brush, floss and go for dental visits regularly, you will be able to reduce the number of bacteria in your mouth that cause bad breath.
- You will maintain an attractive smile that will boost your self-confidence and esteem.
- Teeth will be cared for and staining of teeth by tobacco, food, and drinks will be prevented.
- Teeth will be strengthened so that you can smile with confidence all throughout your life.
How can you become a dentist?
If you are at the opposite end of the spectrum, and is currently considering a career in dentistry, here is how you should go about it:
- Get a bachelor’s degree first.
- Apply to a good dental school. Graduate from dental school. It will take you about four years, where the first two years are classroom instructions and laboratory work and the final two years comprise clinical studies.
- Choose your specialization from the different branches of dentistry.
- Register with professional organizations in dentistry.
- Find a job in an existing dental practice or begin your own practice.
Dentists play a vital role in ensuring that we maintain our oral health and be overall healthy. You must not skip the usual visits to the dentist.
