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Who is a dentist?

A dentist is a medically trained expert who provides dental care, diagnoses, and treatments. They can identify and address teeth, gums, and mouth issues and help patients manage oral health. Dentists can also advise on precautions that might help patients avoid future problems. In addition to general dentistry, some focus on specialties like endodontics, orthodontics, or periodontics.

Dentists are qualified to perform procedures like scaling, which removes plaque from teeth, fillings, extractions, obtaining X-rays, and other preventative treatments. The dental team comprises dental hygienists, technicians and their assistants, and receptionists. A dentist often consults other medical experts to assist patients with complex cases.

Education and training of dentists

To become a certified dental practitioner in the United States, an aspirant must undergo a study route similar to that of any other doctor. The first stage is to attend an undergraduate program and earn a bachelor's degree in science. The aspirant must then take the dental entrance test. After clearing the test, they can apply to dental schools.

Generally, dental school training comprises the following steps:

• Pursuing biomedical science education for the first two years and engaging in clinical practice the following two years
• Obtaining a Doctor of Dental Medicine (DDM) or Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree
• Passing the practical and written tests to obtain a dental license

Specializations within dentistry

Various subspecialties come under dentistry to provide people with the best care and rehabilitation. Mentioned below is a list of subspecialties accepted by the esteemed National Commission on Recognition of Dental Specialties and Certifying Boards:

• Dental anesthesiology: It focuses on controlling pain, anxiety, and general patient health during oral, dental, maxillofacial, and supplementary diagnostic or surgical procedures throughout the perioperative period.
• Dental public health: Helps prevent dental disorders through planned community efforts.
• Endodontics: Specializes in the health of dental pulp and root canals.
• Oral and maxillofacial pathology: Focuses on diseases of the mouth, teeth, and surrounding regions.
• Oral and maxillofacial radiology: A dental specialty where X-rays and other radiographic imaging are used to diagnose and treat oral disorders.
• Oral and maxillofacial surgery: Provides surgical treatment of mouth-related diseases and injuries.
• Oral medicine: This discipline caters to the oral healthcare of medically complicated patients and diagnoses and manages disorders affecting the oral and maxillofacial region.
• Orofacial pain: Encompasses diagnosing, managing, and treating pain disorders of the mouth, face, jaw, head, and neck. 
• Orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics: This area of specialization corrects dental and facial irregularities such as malocclusion and skeletal and neuromuscular defects of the mature or developing orofacial structures.
• Pediatric dentistry: Takes care of the oral healthcare needs of infants and children through adolescence. 
• Periodontics: Treats diseases related to the gum tissues and bone supporting the teeth.
• Prosthodontics: Provides facilities for restoring natural teeth and oral structures with artificial devices like dentures or replacing missing teeth.

Common conditions that a dentist can treat

Here are some common dental issues you might seek help for:

• Bad breath: Persistent bad breath, or halitosis, affects many people and can signal dental problems such as gum disease, cavities, and more. Bacteria on the tongue or dry mouth can also be culprits. While mouthwash can mask odors, seeing your dentist for a thorough evaluation is essential if bad breath persists.
• Tooth decay, commonly known as cavities, is prevalent among people of all ages. It happens when plaque combines with sugars or starches from food, producing acids that erode tooth enamel.
• Gum disease: Gum disease (periodontal disease) refers to gum infection. It may result in tooth loss, and symptoms entail bad breath, swollen or bleeding gums, and pain while chewing.
• Canker and cold sores: Canker sores appear inside the mouth and are not contagious, while cold sores are contagious, caused by the Herpes simplex virus, and appear on the lips. Both can cause discomfort, and a dentist can provide treatments to manage symptoms.
• Tooth erosion and sensitivity: Tooth erosion results from acid damage, leading to sensitivity and pain from hot, cold, or sweet foods. Sensitivity might also signal underlying issues like cracked teeth. Your dentist can recommend treatments to protect and restore your teeth.
• Dental emergencies: Issues like broken or cracked teeth, abscesses, and lost teeth require prompt attention. In such emergencies, contact a dentist near you immediately for urgent care.
• Unattractive smile: If you're unhappy with your smile, cosmetic treatments like teeth whitening, implants, or orthodontics can enhance your appearance.
• Root infections: Persistent, throbbing pain may indicate a root infection. A root canal helps one get rid of pain and restores function by removing bacteria and sealing the tooth.
• Teeth grinding and Temporomandibular disorders (TMD): Grinding teeth can cause damage and discomfort. Night guards can protect your teeth, while temporomandibular disorders affect jaw movement and can be managed with dental care and stress-reducing techniques.

What conditions are related to oral health? 

Your dental health can be related to several diseases and conditions, including:

• Endocarditis: This condition affects the endocardium, the inner lining of your heart chambers or valves. It occurs when bacteria or other germs go inside your bloodstream and stick to specific areas in your heart.
• Cardiovascular disease: Some research suggests that oral bacteria might induce inflammation and infections, leading to heart disease, blocked arteries, and stroke.
• Pregnancy and birth complications: Low birth weight and early delivery are connected to periodontitis.
• Pneumonia: Sometimes, certain germs can enter your lungs and cause pneumonia and other respiratory infections through your mouth.

The following conditions may also have an impact on your dental health:

• Diabetes: Usually increases the risk of gum disease by lowering the body's ability to fight against infection. Such people are more prone to severe and frequent gum disease. Proper periodontal treatment can assist you in regulating your diabetes.
• HIV/AIDS: People with HIV/AIDS frequently experience oral issues, such as painful mucosal lesions.
• Osteoporosis: Periodontal bone and tooth loss are associated with this bone-weakening condition. Some research also suggests that certain medications for osteoporosis may harm jawbones.
• Alzheimer's disease: In the middle and late phases of Alzheimer's, maintaining oral hygiene can become difficult. The individual may experience difficulties with remembering how to use toothpaste or rinse their mouth. They may also refuse any help. 

Other conditions connected to oral health include eating disorders, rheumatoid arthritis, some cancers, and an immune system disorder that leads to dry mouth (Sjogren's syndrome).

If you have been experiencing a chronic condition like diabetes, it is advised that you inform your dentist about your medicines and any abnormalities in your overall health.

The different types of dental procedures

When you see a dentist, they may recommend many dental procedures depending on your needs. Here is a detailed look at some of the most common dental procedures:

• Teeth cleaning: Regular professional teeth cleaning is critical for excellent oral health. A dentist will remove tartar as well as plaque from the gums and teeth using normal or ultrasonic scalers. They then polish the teeth with a special paste, rubber cup, or pumice.
• Fillings: If you have a cavity, your dentist may suggest filling it with amalgam or composite resin.
• Crowns: A crown covers and gives protection to damaged or decayed tooth. The crown is custom-made to fit over the existing tooth and is usually made from porcelain or ceramic.
• Dental implants: In this procedure, a tiny titanium post is surgically placed inside the jawbone to replace the root of a missing tooth. Once in place, an artificial tooth (crown) is attached to the implant for a natural-looking replacement.

Why is it crucial to maintain good oral health?

Oral health and hygiene are direct reflections of our overall health. Preventative care for your mouth, teeth, and gums is critical to avoid painful and possibly fatal dental issues. 

The mouth is more susceptible to germs since it serves as the entrance point for our respiratory system. While some bacteria are safe, others can lead to long-lasting mouth disorders.

Here are a few more reasons for maintaining good oral health:

• Prevents tooth decay and tooth loss
• Aids in early detection of oral disease
• Lowers the chance of pregnancy issues, including premature birth and low birth weight
• Reduces the chance of oral cancer
• Helps brighten up teeth
• Boosts confidence

Tips for selecting the right dentist for yourself

Having an accessible dental provider in your area or neighborhood is imperative to maintaining your overall oral health. Whether you are changing providers or wish to consult a new dentist, consider speaking to a friend or relative first for recommendations.

That apart, the following tips will help you further select the best dental team for yourself and your family: 

• Depending on your health, you may have to visit a dentist more than twice a year. Therefore, look for someone whose clinic is accessible from your home or office.

• Check if your dentist's office has flexible hours and additional facilities like translator services and accommodations for patients with special needs. Ask them how they go about it and if the dental care team has previous training in treating patients who require special care. 

• Research on the clinic's cleanliness. Check if it's neat and orderly, if the staff is helpful and friendly, if they have your medical and dental history recorded properly, and what their policy on missed appointments is.

• The most important criterion is choosing a qualified dental team. All licensed dentists graduate from an accredited dental school in the United States and hold a DDS or DMD. Note that dentists possessing a DMD or DDS title have the same education. Specialists like endodontists, periodontists, pediatric dentists, and orthodontists complete additional postgraduate training. You should be able to find their specific qualifications listed at your dentist's office or online on their website. If you wish to verify a dentist's credentials and qualifications, visit your state's dental board website to cross-check your dentist's qualifications, valid license, and any disciplinary action taken against misconduct in the past. The state dental board determines the health practitioner's qualifications and the dentistry practice that can be allowed within the area.

• As for dental insurance, check if your dentist's office is included in your insurance plan. Consider the costs and payment plans before scheduling an appointment. Ask for estimated costs of procedures like full-mouth X-rays, dental cleaning, an oral exam, and filling a cavity from all your chosen dental offices to come to a conclusion. 

• If you have dental phobia, you must ask how the dental team will take care of it. Narrating your fears to your dentist can help them find the best ways to make you less anxious. 

• Another vital point to consider when searching for a dentist is how they handle dental emergencies and situations that may arise after office hours. Typically, dentists will make arrangements with another dentist or set up an emergency referral service if they cannot tend to emergencies.

How to find the best dentist near you in Merrick, New York?

Ensuring that your teeth are in good condition is vital to overall health. Also, regular dental hygiene may help keep your teeth strong as you age. So, suppose your dental health is causing you discomfort, or you want a routine examination with a dentist. In that case, it is time to schedule an appointment with a competent provider via Zocdoc.

Zocdoc aims to match patients with their ideal medical professionals in or around their location, such as Merrick, New York. You can use Zocdoc to find healthcare professionals based on your symptoms, desired time and location, condition, doctor's specialization, and even your insurance plan. Uploading a photo of your medical insurance card can simplify choosing the right Zocdoc plan, but it's optional. If you'd rather skip the upload, you can still add your insurance details manually by selecting your plan from the provided list. Visit Zocdoc's patient help center if you face any trouble. You can narrow your search further using Zocdoc's advanced filters, including gender, language, hospital connections, and whether or not they treat children.

Each provider's profile details their training, hospital connections, certifications, job experience, areas of expertise, license, etc. It also has genuine and verified reviews and ratings from patients who have previously sought treatment from the doctor.

You can quickly schedule appointments online and offline with doctors on Zocdoc. You can find the best dentist near you who offers video consultations; look for the purple video icon on their profile.

Most importantly, with Zocdoc, scheduling an appointment is easy, safe, and 100% cost-free!

Statistics on dental health in New York, United States

The New York State Education Department estimates that over 729 dental licenses were granted in New York in 2024. It was less than the number of licenses awarded in 2023 (771). 

According to the annual report from America's Health Rankings, almost 64.3% of New York State residents reported going to a dentist or dental clinic in 2022. The survey also revealed that one in four persons in the U.S. had untreated cavities, and nearly half of the individuals aged 30 and older had symptoms of gum disease. The aging population has increased dental care demand.

Another study by America's Health Rankings stated that in 2022, about 12.1% of people in New York State who are 65 years of age or older reported having all of their teeth extracted because of decay or gum disease. Loss of all teeth is usually related to a higher risk of disability, mortality, lower quality of life, and chronic conditions such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and kidney disease.

According to data published on the NYC Health website, more than half (50%) of children (ages 6 to 19) nationwide suffer from tooth decay. Moreover, nearly 90% of U.S. adults had tooth decay, and 50% had gum disease.

Sources

WebMD[1]

WebMD [2]

WebMD [3]

ADA

NYC Health

New York State Education Department

Mayo Clinic

America's Health Rankings [1]

America's Health Rankings [2]

National Commission on Recognition of Dental Specialties and Certifying Boards

ClevelandClinic[1]

ClevelandClinic[2]

Verywell Health

American Dental Association

MouthHealthy[1]

MouthHealthy[2]

MouthHealthy[3]

WebMD[4]

WebMD[5]

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.