Who is a dentist?
A dentist is a professional who diagnoses, manages, and treats diseases and conditions of the oral cavity. They treat mouth conditions like tooth decay, gum disease, and oral cancer. Some standard procedures that dentists perform include teeth cleanings, fillings, crowns, bridges, implants, and extractions. They also provide cosmetic dental services such as bleaching or teeth whitening to enhance a patient's smile.
They work with a team of professionals to provide comprehensive oral care. A dental team includes a dental hygienist, a dental assistant, and a dentist. The dentists are primarily responsible for the patient's mouth and teeth care. They also educate and guide their patients on proper oral hygiene. Ultimately, dentists are committed to helping their patients achieve good dental health for life.
Education and training of dentists in the United States of America
To become a certified dentist, one must complete an accredited dental program and pass national and state examinations. The initial step in becoming a dentist is to complete an accredited dental program. There are many different dental programs, but the American Dental Association recognizes a dental program that includes at least four years of undergraduate study followed by four years of dental school. Aspirants also need to take the Dental Admission Test (DAT) to be eligible for admission into dental school. During dental school, they must earn a Doctor of Dental Medicine (DDM) or Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree and get their dental license from the respective licensing board.
In addition, in many states, dental schools must be certified by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) of the American Dental Association. It ensures students, employers, and licensing boards that the degree obtained meets high-quality curriculum, facilities, and faculty standards.
After licensure, dentists may become certified by taking the National Board of Dental Examination or opting for a postgraduate residency in a dental specialty.
Types of dentists
In addition to general dentistry, there are 12 board-recognized dental specialties. Dentists are of different types depending on their specialty area.
- General dentist: General dentists are the most common type of dentist. They provide preventive care, such as teeth cleanings and fluoride treatments, and they also treat dental problems, such as cavities.
- Pediatric dentist: Pediatric dentists treat the specific dental needs of infants, children, and adolescents. They are specialists in examining and treating various dental problems in young patients and are also skilled in designing treatment plans that meet each patient's needs. Pediatric dentists use special techniques to ensure that children receive high-quality dental care. They often use behavior management methods to help make children more comfortable during dental procedures. In addition, pediatric dentists frequently use sealants and fluoride-based treatments to help prevent tooth decay in their young patients.
- Orthodontist: An orthodontist specializes in diagnosing, preventing, and treating dental and facial irregularities and bite misalignment. They use retainers, races, and other appliances to correct improperly positioned teeth and jaws.
- Oral surgeon: An oral surgeon specializes in mouth, teeth, and jaw surgical procedures. They can perform various surgical procedures, including tooth extractions, dental implants, and corrective jaw surgery. They can also perform reconstructive dental surgery for accident victims.
- Prosthodontist: Prosthodontists focus on replacing and restoring teeth. They use multiple techniques, including implants, bridges, and dentures, to help their patients achieve a healthy, functional mouth. Prosthodontists are experts in dental anatomy and the occlusion (bite) of the dental cavity. Their expertise allows them to create custom-made prostheses that are aesthetically pleasing and functionally sound.
- Periodontist: A periodontist specializes in preventing, diagnosing, and treating bacterial infections that destroy the gum tissue and bone supporting the teeth. If ignored, periodontal disease can lead to tooth loss.
- Dental hygienist: A dental hygienist focuses on preventative care and cleaning. They remove tartar or plaque buildup on teeth and advise on how to brush and floss properly. However, a dental hygienist typically does not perform corrective procedures essential to maintaining oral health.
Common dental issues
There are a few dental issues that are more common than others. Here are a few of the common oral problems that a dentist can help with:
- Cavities are one of the most common dental issues. They occur when tooth enamel breaks down, allowing bacteria to enter and cause decay.
- Gum disease is another common dental issue. It occurs when the gums get inflamed, leading to tooth loss.
- Bad breath: Bad breath is primarily the result of poor oral hygiene or consumption of certain foods or drinks. It can also indicate a possibility of gum disease or other dental issues.
- Yellow teeth: Yellow teeth can result from several things, including smoking, drinking coffee, or simply getting older.
How do you prevent dental issues?
The tongue, lips, gums, and throat are all potential areas of development for the severe disease known as oral cancer. The most prevalent risk factors for this condition include cigarette and alcohol use. Besides that, exposure to Human papillomavirus (HPV) is also a known contributor. Quitting smoking and alcohol use, visiting your dentist for routine oral cancer screenings, maintaining a healthy weight, and engaging in safe sexual behavior are great ways to reduce the risk of oral cancer.
Millions of people experience discomfort due to sensitive teeth. Symptoms of tooth problems include discomfort or pain while consuming hot or cold foods, flossing, or brushing.
Halitosis (bad breath) is also a condition faced by many, primarily caused by:
- Neglecting one's oral health
- Developing gum disease
- Suffering from dry mouth
- Having underlying medical issues
Other measures to avoid bad breath include cleaning your tongue and drinking enough water.
Receding gums may be caused by or lead to other common dental problems. Tooth loss is one of the more severe complications that can arise from this condition. It is because the tooth's exposed root is particularly vulnerable to decay and other damage caused by this dental problem. Proper tooth cleaning is an integral part of dental care for receding gums. Gum grafting or other surgical procedures may be necessary in severe cases.
One of the indicative symptoms of a root infection is a constant, throbbing toothache. This condition makes it painful to bite and chew, and the infected part of your mouth becomes susceptible to cold or hot drinks and food. The infected area around the face may sometimes swell as well. Dentists use a root canal to treat a root infection. It is a safe procedure with little to no pain as the dentists use anesthetic while performing root canals. Understanding the most common dental problems can help you better prepare for future dental visits and treatments.
How often should you see a dentist near you?
While several people make regular dental visits, their frequency depends on different factors, such as:
- Lifestyle: People who smoke often and drink must see the dentist more often than others since they are at a higher risk of developing dental problems.
- Dental hygiene habits: Some people brush and floss twice daily, whereas others brush once daily. People who are passive while caring for their teeth are likely to require more appointments with the dentist.
- Biology: Some aspects of your dental health are influenced by natural factors beyond your control. For example, genetics can make some people more susceptible to cavities and other dental issues. If dental problems are common in your family, taking extra precautions to protect your teeth is essential. Regular dental checkups and personalized dental care from your dentist can help prevent future issues and maintain oral health.
- Access to care: Preventive measures are essential to maintain oral health and avoid dental disorders. However, not everyone can access the products and services necessary for proper dental care. If you belong to a group that faces such challenges, regular dental checkups become even more critical to safeguard your oral health.
- The dentist: Your dentist will decide how often you should schedule appointments based on your needs. If you're undergoing a procedure, they will arrange dedicated appointments within a specific timeframe. For preventive care, the frequency of your visits will depend on the overall status of your mouth, teeth, and gums. If everything is in optimal health, your dentist might recommend waiting six months to a year before your next checkup.
How should you prepare for your dental appointments?
Going to the dentist regularly is pivotal to maintaining your lifelong oral well-being. You can maximize every dental visit by following the below-mentioned preparation tips:
- Gather documents and information: If you are visiting a new dentist for the first time, you will likely need to complete initial paperwork. Remember to carry your dental insurance card, photo ID, dental and medical history, and list of current medications.
- Write down your symptoms and queries: Are you experiencing new symptoms such as toothache, sensitivity, or bad breath? Do you want to understand the best oral hygiene routine? Are you wondering how often you should have a dental exam and cleaning? Please note all your oral health-related concerns and bring them up during the appointment so that you receive proper care.
- Clean your mouth: Before heading to the dentist, follow your complete oral hygiene routine to eliminate any stuck food particles and remove bad breath. Brush your teeth, floss in between, scrape your tongue, and rinse your mouth thoroughly. Remember not to be too vigorous and overdo anything, as it can irritate your gums and damage the tooth enamel.
- Be mindful of your food choices: On the day of your dental appointment, it is best to avoid certain types of foods to make the dental exam most effective. It includes strong-smelling foods like garlic and onion, sticky foods like candies and popcorn, and pigmented drinks like coffee and tea. Additionally, skip anything that can make your teeth sensitive, such as carbonated beverages, citrus fruit juices, and vinegary foods.
- Manage anxiety: It is common to feel overwhelmed and nervous before a dental visit. Instead of postponing your appointment and delaying care, you can focus on relaxation techniques such as yoga or deep breathing to alleviate the stress. You can also take a family member, friend, or caregiver for emotional support. Finally, inform your dentist about your anxiety—they may adjust the treatment pace or recommend you use a hand signal whenever you need a break during the consultation.
How do you find the best dentist near you in Kansas City, Missouri?
We all know how difficult it is to find a reliable, experienced dentist who also fits your budget. Even if we shortlist one, several other factors, like the dentist's location and appointment dates, still need to be checked. The back-and-forth and research take much time and effort.
At Zocdoc, everyone should have access to the best medical care. Our platform makes your search easy and hassle-free with its patient-friendly features and carefully curated directory of medical professionals nationwide.
Sign up for a free account on our website to access Zocdoc's extensive directory and easy-to-use features. Use the search bar on our homepage to begin your search. You can search based on the specialization you seek, the symptoms, or your medical condition. Select your location as Kansas City, Missouri, or enter your zip code. Select your preferred appointment date. Once you press enter, Zocdoc will provide a list of dentist profiles matching your choices.
Each profile contains relevant information about the doctor, so you will know whom you see before your appointment. The Zocdoc provider profile includes details about the provider's education, accreditations, certifications, experience, languages they speak, services they provide, etc. You can also read the verified patient reviews to make an informed decision while shortlisting.
If you want to find a dentist who accepts your insurance, add your insurance information (your insurance provider and plan) to the Zocdoc search. It will help you see in-network providers who accept your plan. You can find accurate results from in-network dentists. Check out Zocdoc's patient help center for more information and solutions related to insurance.
After shortlisting a dentist near you, you can quickly make an online or in-person appointment with one in real time. If you prefer a video consultation, find a purple video icon on the dentist's profile and confirm your appointment.
All bookings on Zocdoc are simple, secure, and free!
Statistics on dental care in Missouri
According to America's Health Rankings, nearly 61.2% of adults reported going to a dentist or dental clinic in 2022. In the same year, around 59.3% of adults aged between 18 and 44 reported visiting a dentist or dental care facility. This ratio was about 62.1% for people between 45 and 64 and approximately 63.6% for adults above 65.
It is essential to pay attention to any discomforts and visit the dentist regularly. Professional dental care helps you keep your oral health in check, which helps with your overall well-being. According to the latest data from the American Cancer Society, in 2024, Missouri is estimated to have almost 1,200 new cases of oral cavity and pharyngeal cancer. Moreover, the estimated number of deaths from these cases is about 250.
Sources
WebMD[1]
WebMD[2]
American Dental Association
HealthcareDegree.com
Cancer Statistics Center
Heritage Dental Centre
Kneib Dentistry
America’s Health Rankings[1]
America’s Health Rankings[2]
Dorsey Family Dental
Topping Dental Group
Gentle Smiles of Colorado
