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Who is a dentist?

Dentists are healthcare professionals who help restore oral health. They treat illnesses or conditions of the teeth, gums, tongue, muscles of the head, neck, jaw, salivary fglands, and parts of the nervous system near the neck and head. They provide preventive care, perform dental restorative procedures, correct dentofacial esthetics, and eliminate pain.

Dentists can treat cavities, the most chronic childhood disease for millions of Americans today. Regular visits to dentists can also prevent cavities and other dental diseases. In addition, dentists can help detect the beginnings of illnesses in different body parts, as many symptoms are generally first visible in the mouth.

Most dentists operate their private practices, although some practice within clinical settings such as hospitals and clinics. They can also work in research facilities or dental schools, imparting education.

What do dentists do?

Dentists interpret X-rays and other diagnostic tests, create treatment plans for patients, ensure the safe administration of anesthetics, and monitor the growth and development of the teeth and jaw. They can conduct surgical and other procedures involving the bone, teeth, and soft tissues within the oral cavity.

Dentists can also help manage oral trauma and various other emergencies. They can treat teeth discoloration, lumps, swellings, or ulcerations in the mouth. Dentists perform biopsies, screening tests for oral cancer, and diagnostic exams for infectious or chronic diseases.

What kind of education and training do dentists receive?

Aspiring dentists must first complete their graduation and enroll in a dental school. Candidates study and train in dental schools for four years. The initial two years of dental and medical school are the same. Students learn pathology, anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, immunology, and microbiology. During the following two years, dental students focus on clinical practice, diagnosis, and treatment of oral diseases under the expert guidance of experienced dentists.

After earning their dental degree, many dentists begin practicing by clearing a stringent state-level licensure examination. All dentists must satisfy continuing education requirements to keep themselves updated with the latest developments in their field. Many dentists continue their education and training after dental school, often by specializing in a dental subspecialty of their choice.

Subspecialties of dentistry in the US

Dentistry encompasses specialized fields designed to address specific oral health and treatment aspects. These subspecialties provide advanced knowledge and skills beyond the foundational dental education. Here's an overview of these fields:  

• Dental public health: This field addresses dental diseases through community-oriented initiatives involving organized efforts to enhance oral health in a broader population. Aspiring dental public health professionals complete an additional 15 months of education after dental school.
• Endodontics: Endodontists specialize in dental pulp and conditions affecting the inner core of teeth, often performing procedures like root canal therapy. This subspecialty requires a comprehensive 26-month post-dental school education, equipping professionals with the expertise needed for precise treatments.
• Oral and maxillofacial pathology: This specialized field diagnoses various oral conditions. Achieving proficiency in oral and maxillofacial pathology necessitates 37 months of dedicated study after dental school.
• Oral and maxillofacial radiology: This subspecialty focuses on treating oral diseases and ailments using imaging techniques, such as X-rays. The education path for oral and maxillofacial radiologists spans 30 months beyond dental school.
• Oral and maxillofacial surgery: Specializing in treating oral injuries and diseases, oral and maxillofacial surgeons undergo rigorous training lasting 54 to 72 months after dental school. Their expertise encompasses surgical interventions related to the oral and facial regions.
• Orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics: This subspecialty centers on correcting dental and facial abnormalities like misaligned teeth and jaws. Orthodontists receive intensive training over 30 months after dental school to develop skills in creating proper alignment and improving aesthetics.
• Pediatric dentistry: This specialty focuses on safeguarding the oral health of children and adolescents during crucial developmental stages. Aspiring pediatric dentists undergo 25 months of post-dental school education to effectively address young patients' unique needs.
• Periodontics: With a specialization in treating gum and bone diseases that impact the supporting structures of teeth, periodontists undergo 35 months of advanced education following dental school.
• Prosthodontics: Prosthodontists restore natural teeth or replace missing oral structures with artificial devices like dentures. Acquiring proficiency in prosthodontics involves an additional 32 months of education beyond dental school.

Symptoms of dental and oral problems

Regular preventive dental inspections can detect early signs of oral problems you may not know about. These checkups help you receive proactive treatment and prevent the condition from becoming a major health complication.

If you experience any of the following symptoms alongside a high fever, rush to a dentist near you immediately or seek emergency treatment:

• Swollen or bleeding gums
• Tender areas in the mouth that are not healing even after a fortnight, sores, or ulcers
• Receding gums
• Pain during biting or chewing
• Toothache or pain
• Loose teeth
• Sensitive teeth
• Chronic bad breath
• Dry mouth
• Broken or cracked teeth
• Jaw popping/clicking of the jawbone
• Swelling in neck, cheek, and face

Please remember to visit a dentist before the symptoms show up. To ensure that, consult them at least twice a year.

Causes of dental and oral problems

Our oral cavity or mouth naturally contains different types of bacteria, which are harmless in small quantities. However, a higher intake of sugar-rich foods and poor dental hygiene increases the number of acid-producing bacteria inside the mouth. These bacteria then feed on the sugar and thrive near the gumline in a sticky matrix known as plaque.

The acid produced by the bacteria eats up and permanently damages the tooth enamel or the outer layer of the tooth, causing small holes or erosions called dental cavities. If left untreated, the acid reaches the tooth's inner softer layer, called the dentin, resulting in severe dental complications.

Meanwhile, the plaque hardens near the gumline and over the tooth, causing gum inflammation and gingivitis. If the inflammation increases, the gum becomes swollen and separates from the tooth, forming pus pockets in the empty spaces. This stage of gum disease is termed periodontitis. 

Other factors that lead to periodontitis and gingivitis include:

• Poor brushing practices
• Diabetes
• Smoking
• A diet rich in sugar and carbohydrates
• Genetics or family history
• Hormonal changes in women
• Frequent vomiting due to acidity
• Heartburn or acid reflux
• Infections such as AIDS or HIV

The link between oral health and overall health

Just like other parts of the body, your mouth contains many germs, most of them harmless. However, the mouth is the gateway to both your digestive and respiratory tracts. Because of this, germs in the mouth sometimes enter the body and cause disease.

Usually, your body's defense system and good oral habits help control these germs. Daily brushing and flossing are key parts of good oral care. Without them, germs can multiply and lead to problems like tooth decay and gum disease.

Some medications, such as decongestants, antihistamines, painkillers, diuretics, and antidepressants, can reduce saliva flow. Saliva plays a major role in protecting your mouth. It helps remove food particles and neutralizes the acids that bacteria produce, helping keep germs in check.

Bacteria and inflammation in the mouth are also connected to periodontitis, a severe gum disease. Research suggests that oral bacteria and inflammation might contribute to other health conditions. Additionally, diseases like diabetes and HIV/AIDS can weaken your body's ability to fight infections, which may worsen oral health issues.

Why should you visit a dentist?

Dentists check for dental decay, gum problems, and signs of mouth cancer. They remove tartar and plaque buildup, which can cause tooth decay and gum disease. 

Dentists also check for abnormalities such as swellings, ulcerations, or lumps in the mouth and surrounding areas. 

Further, if you are pregnant, have had a dental procedure, or have habits such as smoking or chewing tobacco, you must regularly visit a dentist to check for any issues.

What should you expect during a visit to the dentist?

During the first visit to a dentist near you, they will look at any reports or notes made by a referring physician, if any. They will ask you about any symptoms or pain you are experiencing in the teeth or mouth. They will examine your teeth, gums, and the inside of your mouth for cavities or other abnormalities.

After the initial examination, the dentist will clean and floss your teeth and remove tartar or plaque. If there are any cavities, they might take an X-ray and check the extent of the damage. You may have to revisit the dentist for cavities since the treatment may take several sessions. The dentist will give you an anesthetic shot and clean the tooth by removing the decayed part. They will fill the cavity with a silver or tooth-colored filling.

The dentist will also check the growth of the teeth and jaw if the patient is a child. Dentists clean and polish teeth using tiny tools such as a special toothbrush, tooth scraper, and mirror. If necessary, they will check the alignment of your teeth and may refer you to another specialist, such as an orthodontist.

Who are cosmetic dentists, and how are they different from general dentists?

While a cosmetic dentist and a general dentist both play vital roles in supporting oral health, they focus on different aspects of dental treatment. Whether you need regular dental care or want to improve your smile, knowing which type of dentist to visit helps you get better results and a more satisfying experience.

A cosmetic dentist is a dental provider who focuses on refining the appearance of your teeth, gums, and bites. They perform various procedures to enhance the visual appeal of your smile. Cosmetic dentists often use advanced tools and methods to deliver natural-looking, lasting results. Some popular services cosmetic dentists offer include:

• Teeth whitening
• Porcelain veneers
• Dental bonding
• Orthodontic treatments
• Dental implants
• Gum contouring
• Smile makeovers

Cosmetic dentists may also provide general dental care, such as cleanings and fillings, but their main focus remains cosmetic improvements. On the other hand, general dentists primarily work on overall oral health. They identify and treat common dental issues like cavities, gum disease, and tooth decay. General dentists also handle routine cleanings, fillings, and tooth extractions and guide patients in maintaining proper oral hygiene.

How do you find a good dentist in Plano, Texas?

Recent scientific research has established connections between dental health and various chronic conditions, including diabetes and heart disease. As a result, the World Health Organization (WHO) has incorporated oral health into its efforts to prevent chronic diseases because of the connections between these risks.

The American Dental Association suggests starting dental appointments by the child's first birthday. Dentists can guide parents and children, deliver preventive oral health services, and detect and treat dental diseases in their initial stages.

The patient's ability to receive care quickly is the most critical factor in crises. The Zocdoc website is one of the most accessible places to look for dentists near you in Plano, Texas. The Zocdoc platform can meet your demands with just a few mouse clicks. Enter a few standard pieces of information about yourself on the website, such as why you need to visit a dentist (symptoms or a condition), the date and time you require an appointment, your home address, zip code, and your current health insurance. Zocdoc will provide a list of dentists in your area who specialize in handling your problems.

To help you make an informed decision, Zocdoc provides essential details about each dentist on their unique profile. The profile lists the dentist's educational history, areas of specialty, years of professional experience, certificates and licenses, and any previous accolades or awards. The profile also includes the dentist's gender, preferred languages, and whether they treat children. You can quickly schedule both in-person and online appointments with Zocdoc.

Additionally, Zocdoc lets you determine which dentists near you accept your insurance. All you need to do is choose your insurance from the drop-down box. Depending on the dentist's availability, you can book appointments during office hours, non-office hours, and even on weekends.

If your insurance plan isn't on Zocdoc, consider uploading a photo of your medical insurance card. Our algorithms will scan the image and identify your possible plan. However, this option is not available for vision or dental insurance. If you encounter any issues, contact our service team. You can also visit the Zocdoc patient help center for further insurance queries.

On Zocdoc, booking appointments is quick, cost-free, and secure.

Statistics on dentists and dental visits in Texas

According to America's Health Rankings, in 2022, around 57.9% of adults in Texas reported visiting a dentist or a dental clinic within the past year. It was much lower than the national average of 66%. Women (58.3%) were more likely to visit a dentist in Texas than men (57.4%). Those aged 45 and above (58.4%) saw a dentist more often than those below 45 (55.9%). 

Further, as of September 2023, there were 55.2 dentists and advanced practice dental therapists for every 100,000 people in the state, which was lower than the national average of 64.6 dentists and advanced practice dental therapists per 100,000 people. 

Sources

American Dental Education Association

Maine Dental Association

WebMD

America 's Health Rankings[1]

America 's Health Rankings[2]

Mayo Clinic[1]

Mayo Clinic[2]

New Image Dental

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.