What Does a Dentist Do?
A dentist is a medical professional who specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases and conditions of the oral cavity. The dental specialty of periodontics is concerned with the prevention and treatment of periodontal disease, which is an inflammatory condition that affects the gums and the supporting structures of the teeth. In addition to these two specialties, there are several other subspecialties within the field of dentistry, including orthodontics, endodontics, and oral and maxillofacial surgery.
Dentists use a variety of tools to examine the mouth and teeth, including dental X-rays, which provide a detailed view of the teeth and surrounding structures. They also use dental instruments to clean the teeth and remove plaque and tartar (calculus). In addition, dentists may use lasers to remove or reshape gum tissue.
Dentists treat a variety of conditions that affect the mouth, teeth, and gums, including tooth decay, gum disease, and oral infections. They also provide preventive care, such as fluoride treatments, to help reduce the risk of dental problems. In addition, dentists can provide cosmetic dental procedures, such as teeth whitening, to improve the appearance of the teeth.
If you have a problem with your teeth or gums, you should see a dentist for diagnosis and treatment. You should also see a dentist regularly for preventive care.
The Different Types of Dentists
A dentist is a healthcare professional who is trained to diagnose, treat and prevent oral health conditions. Dentists can specialize in a number of different areas, such as orthodontics, periodontics, pediatrics or oral surgery.
Orthodontics is the branch of dentistry that deals with the correction of malaligned teeth and jaws. Orthodontists use braces, retainers and other appliances to align the teeth and jaws.
Periodontics is the branch of dentistry that deals with the prevention and treatment of gum disease. Periodontists clean teeth and remove tartar and plaque buildup. They also treat gum disease and provide guidance on how to prevent it.
Pediatrics is the branch of dentistry that deals with the care of children’s teeth. Pediatric dentists provide dental care for infants, children and adolescents. They focus on preventive care and the treatment of dental conditions that are common in children.
Oral surgery is the branch of dentistry that deals with the surgical treatment of the mouth, teeth and jaws. Oral surgeons perform dental implants, Wisdom tooth extractions, and other types of surgery.
Why You Might Need to See a Dentist
A dentist in hazel dell is a healthcare professional who specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases and disorders of the oral cavity. The oral cavity includes the teeth, gums, and mouth. A dentist can also provide guidance on how to best take care of the teeth and gums.
There are many reasons why someone might need to see a dentist. Here are three of the most common reasons:
1. To Treat cavities or tooth decay
Cavities are one of the most common reasons why people see a dentist. Cavities are caused by tooth decay, which is the breakdown of the tooth enamel. This can happen due to a number of factors, such as poor oral hygiene, eating sugary or acidic foods, and not getting enough fluoride.
Cavities can cause a lot of pain and discomfort. They can also lead to more serious problems, such as infection and tooth loss. Treatment for cavities typically involves filling the cavity with a special material.
2. To Treat gum disease
Gum disease is another common reason why people see a dentist. It is caused by the build-up of plaque on the teeth. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth. If it is not removed, it can harden and turn into tartar.
Tartar can irritate the gums and cause them to become inflamed. This is called gingivitis. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis. This is a more serious form of gum disease that can damage the bones and tissues that support the teeth.
Treatment for gum disease typically involves professional cleaning, as well as brushing and flossing at home. In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary.
3. To Have teeth whitened
Teeth whitening is another common reason why people see a dentist. Over time, teeth can become stained or discolored. This can happen due to a number of factors, such as smoking, drinking coffee or tea, and eating certain foods.
What to Expect When You Visit the Dentist
Going to the dentist can be a daunting experience, especially if you’re not sure what to expect. Here’s a quick guide to what you can expect when you visit the dentist.
First, you will be asked to fill out a medical history form. This form will ask about your general health, any medications you are taking, and any allergies you have. Be sure to answer all of the questions honestly, as this information will help the dentist determine what procedures are safe for you.
Next, the dentist will take a look inside your mouth. They will look at your teeth and gums to check for any signs of trouble. They may also use a small mirror to get a better look at hard-to-see areas.
After that, the dentist will probably clean your teeth. They will remove any plaque or tartar that has built up on your teeth. They will also floss your teeth and may use a special mouthwash.
Finally, the dentist will give you a check-up to see how your teeth and gums are doing. They may also talk to you about any concerns you have or any changes you should make to your oral care routine.
How to Find a Dentist
A dentist is a health care professional who is trained to diagnose, treat and prevent diseases and disorders of the mouth, teeth and gums. Dentists also provide education on how to maintain oral health.
There are many different types of dentists, each with their own area of expertise. For example, a general dentist may provide basic dental care, while a periodontist specializes in the treatment of gum disease.
To find a dentist that meets your needs, you may want to ask for recommendations from family and friends, or search online directories such as the American Dental Association (ADA) website. Once you have a list of potential dentists, you can narrow down your choices by considering factors such as location, office hours and services offered.