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Who is a dentist?

A dentist is a doctor specializing in diagnosing, preventing, and treating oral cavity diseases. The dentist's support team, which includes dental hygienists, assistants, technicians, and nurse practitioners, helps provide oral health services.

Dentists' roles vary based on their training and experience. The primary responsibility of any dentist is to advise patients on appropriate preventive care and provide treatment. They also advise on diet, nutrition, and lifestyle habits that can improve total body health. 

Education and training of dentists in the United States of America

A dentist's educational journey is similar to that of a medical doctor. The first step is to gain a Bachelor of Science degree in an area such as biology, chemistry, health, or mathematics. Then, graduates must clear the dental admissions test (DAT) to enroll in an accredited dental school. 

In dental school, training involves completing two years of biomedical science and two years of clinical practice. Graduates then receive a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DDM) degree.

To obtain dental licensure, dentists must also pass the National Board Dental Examination (NBDE) and other state-specific written and practical examinations. Some dentists may choose to undergo further training and education to become specialists. Depending on the specialty, they may have to complete a one- to three-year postgraduate residency program.

Some of the dental specialties that require a postgraduate residency are:

• Endodontics
• Dental public health
• Pediatric dentistry
• Periodontics
• Prosthodontics
• Orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics

Why is oral health important?

Many of us take oral health for granted. We brush our teeth, floss, and use mouthwash occasionally, but we don't think beyond that. However, the benefits of good oral health are far-reaching and go beyond keeping your breath fresh and your smile bright. Good oral health is important for our overall well-being, from preventing cavities to reducing the risk of severe medical conditions. Oral health can affect an individual's health, self-esteem, and quality of life. 

Our mouth hosts millions of bacteria, some good for us and help keep our gums healthy. However, certain types of bacteria can cause tooth decay and gum disease. That's why brushing our teeth twice daily and flossing once daily is essential. These simple steps remove plaque, a sticky film of food, bacteria, and saliva, from the teeth/gums. Plaque can even harden into tartar, a yellow or brown deposit that a dental hygienist or dentist treats.

When should you see a dentist near you?

It is important to visit the dentist regularly for two reasons. First, the dentist can help prevent problems by cleaning your teeth and spotting any issues early on. Second, if you already have a dental problem, the dentist can provide treatment and relief.

Experts recommend that patients visit every six months for a routine cleaning and check-up. However, depending on their needs, some patients may need to visit more often. For example, patients with gum disease or cavities must see the dentist frequently to keep their condition under control.

If you have dental pain or other symptoms, you must see a dentist as soon as possible. This will ensure prompt treatment and prevent further damage to your teeth or gums.

What is the difference between a dentist and an endodontist?

All endodontists are dentists, but less than three percent of dentists become endodontists. Like other medical specialists, endodontists undergo at least two extra years of training after dental school. Their specialized training revolves around diagnosing tooth pain, performing root canal treatments, and handling procedures involving the inner portion of the tooth.

Dentists and endodontists have distinct roles in maintaining your oral health. Dentists usually spot issues that may require an endodontist's expertise. You'll need endodontic care if you exhibit symptoms of tooth infection or severe decay in the tooth's pulp or root.

Endodontists use specific methods to ensure patients' comfort during treatments. They excel at administering anesthetic drugs, particularly for patients who struggle to hold the anesthesia. 

Due to their specialized training in root canals, endodontists often charge higher fees than general dentists for the same procedure. However, it's important to note that endodontic treatments generally deliver excellent results and boast higher success rates than procedures performed by general dentists. When you opt for an endodontist, invest in their expertise and ensure top-tier dental care for your teeth.

Lastly, both endodontists and dentists are crucial for your oral care. They offer complementary services with different focuses. Your endodontist may aim to save your tooth, while a dentist concentrates on your oral hygiene habits. Together, they work to ensure your mouth stays healthy.

Many assume a specialist requires a referral, but you can directly consult an endodontist under specific circumstances. If you know that you have a cracked tooth or a tooth knocked out due to trauma, you can directly contact an endodontist for treatment. They will collect the necessary information and refer you to a general dentist near you.

Visiting an endodontist directly often saves time. If you are experiencing severe pain or are sure about your tooth issue, you can skip the initial step and see an endodontist. They can promptly create a plan to save your tooth and alleviate discomfort.

Consequences of poor oral health

Poor oral health can impact one's life in many ways. It can result in gum disease or tooth decay, making it hard to eat and speak. It can also cause bad breath, pain, and discomfort. Poor oral health can affect mental health and is linked to several severe health conditions, including stroke, diabetes, heart disease, and respiratory problems. 

Tooth decay is one of the common issues associated with poor oral health. If untreated, tooth erosion can result in cavities, which can cause pain, sensitivity, and eventually tooth loss.

Gum disease is a problem that can arise from poor oral hygiene. When the plaque and tartar build up underneath the gum line, it inflames and irritates the gums, eventually leading to periodontitis. This severe condition damages the tissue and bones supporting the teeth.

How can you and your dentist work together to treat dental and oral problems?

Proper oral hygiene is vital to maintaining healthy teeth and gums. Even if you brush and floss regularly, it's essential to have a professional cleaning by a dentist or dental hygienist biannually. During these routine visits, your dentist will also check for any signs of gum disease, infections, or other dental problems and recommend the proper treatments.

Professional cleanings help remove any plaque/tartar buildup you may have missed during regular brushing and flossing. A deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) eliminates tartar from above and below the gum line, which regular cleaning may miss. After cleaning, they might apply fluoride treatments to help strengthen tooth enamel and make it more resilient to bacteria and acid. 

The specialist can prescribe antibiotics to remove the infection in the gums, tooth abscess, or lungs; crowns and sealants are other common dental treatments. Dentists use fillings to repair a cavity or hole in the tooth, while a crown can fit over an implant or a natural tooth to replace a large portion. Dental sealants are thin coatings placed on the back teeth to prevent cavities.

You may require root canal treatment if tooth decay reaches the nerve inside the tooth. The nerve is removed during this procedure, and a filling made of biocompatible materials is inserted.

Probiotics have some benefits for oral health, such as preventing plaque, treating bad breath, and decreasing inflammation from gum disease. Foods like yogurt, kefir, kimchi, sauerkraut, tempeh, and miso contain beneficial bacteria that can help improve oral health.

Finally, it's essential to make daily oral hygiene a habit. A dental hygienist can teach you proper brushing and flossing techniques, recommend mouthwash and oral rinses, and suggest tools like a water flosser to maintain oral health and cleanliness.

What are some surprising causes of bad breath that people often overlook?

Bad breath, or halitosis, can stem from more than just poor oral hygiene. There are many surprising and lesser-known causes. 

One common culprit is alcohol. Despite being a liquid, alcohol can dry out your mouth, creating a favorable environment for bacteria that produce foul odors. The same effect can occur from caffeine, smoking, spicy foods, or simply sleeping with your mouth open, which explains “morning breath.”

Another key cause lies right on your tongue. Bacteria that collect on the tongue's surface lead to bad breath. Using a toothbrush/tongue scraper can help remove these bacteria, with scrapers offering slightly better results. It’s essential to use safe and comfortable tools; avoid brittle plastic scrapers and sharp metal ones.

A low-carb diet can also be to blame. When you drastically cut out on carbs, your body resorts to fat for energy, producing ketones. These can cause a distinctive, unpleasant breath that brushing and flossing simply cannot fix. Sugar-free gum may help mask the odor in such cases. 

Respiratory infections like the common cold or bronchitis also play a role. These infections increase mucus production, and bacteria thrive on mucus. Also, nasal congestion often leads to mouth breathing and dry mouth, exacerbating bad breath. 

Medications are another frequent but often overlooked cause. Over 400 prescription and over-the-counter drugs — including antidepressants and antihistamines — can reduce saliva production. Saliva helps wash away food/bacteria, so staying hydrated, chewing sugarless gum, and using specialized mouth rinses can keep your mouth moist and fresh.

Tonsil stones, clusters of bacteria, mucus, and food particles trapped in the tonsils, are usually harmless but notoriously smelly. Gargling salt water can help remove these, but your dentist may suggest other treatments.

Dried fruit can contribute to bad breath. Dried fruits are high in sugar and tend to stick to teeth, feeding bacteria and causing odors. Similarly, acid reflux or GERD can bring undigested food and stomach acids into the mouth, leading to bad breath.

Finally, cracked teeth, broken fillings, or poorly fitting dentures can trap food/bacteria, leading to decay, gum disease, and odor. Regular dental visits are crucial to help identify and treat such issues early.

How can you find the best dentist in Lake Worth, Florida?

At Zocdoc, whether you are looking for a dentist, orthodontist, endodontist, or pediatric dentist in your vicinity, we help you find the best healthcare practitioner. Please register for a free account on our website to select a dentist from the extensive list of verified providers. You can access and choose dentists based on their specialty or location. Our network comprises board-certified dentists in Florida as well as preventative care doctors. 

Each provider profile contains relevant details about the doctor, so you can feel assured before your visit. Utilize the Zocdoc Insurance Checker feature for more information about your insurance plan. With in-network providers, you can make real-time appointments with a dentist who accepts your insurance plan. 

However, if you can't find your medical insurance plan on Zocdoc, upload a photo of your insurance card. Zocdoc will automatically scan the image and display the plan that is most likely for you. This feature isn't available for dental or vision insurance cards. If you face any issues while uploading the image, don't hesitate to contact Zocdoc's service team for assistance. Additionally, you can check out Zocdoc's patient help center for answers to any further insurance-related queries.

If you are looking for a certified dentist near Lake Worth, Florida, you should also read the verified patient reviews on the Zocdoc website or app before your appointment. If you are looking for female dentists near you, add the gender filter to your search results.

Booking in-person or online appointments with dentists on Zocdoc is simple, secure, and 100% free!

Statistics about dentists in Florida

Per data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, in May 2022, dentists' employment in Florida was around 7,360. Florida has the third-highest active dentists, following only California and Texas. In addition, employment per thousand jobs was 0.80, and the location quotient was 0.98. 

According to the American Cancer Society—Cancer Statistics Center, the number of new oral cavity and pharynx cases in Florida in 2023 is expected to be approximately 5,040.

Per the Florida Department of Health, approximately 65.7% of Florida's adults visited a dentist in 2018. Furthermore, nearly 5.6% of adults had all their teeth extracted because of tooth decay/gum disease in 2018.

Sources

WebMD[1] 

WebMD[2] 

WebMD[3]

American Dental Association

Oral Health Foundation

HealthcareDegree

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

American Cancer Society

Florida Health

American Association of Endodontists

Midtown Endodontist NYC

Kirkland Family Dentistry

Cleveland Clinic

The content herein is provided for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Medical information changes constantly, and therefore the content on this website should not be assumed to be current, complete or exhaustive. Always seek the advice of your doctor before starting or changing treatment. If you think you may have a medical emergency, please call your doctor or 9-1-1 immediately.