Who are dentists? What do they do?
Dentists belong to the healthcare field, which deals with teeth and related tissues in and around the mouth. A dentist prevents, diagnoses, and treats oral health conditions.
Some of the roles and responsibilities of dentists include the following:
- Treating tooth decay
- Filling cavities
- Whitening teeth
- Examining x-rays of teeth and mouth to assess and diagnose problems
- Mending or extracting damaged teeth
- Using anesthesia to manage pain while carrying out procedures
- Prescribing medicines and antibiotics
- Taking measurements for making dentures and other dental accessories
- Advising on diet and dental care
Dentists follow different work schedules. Some work in the evenings and even on weekends, depending on their patients' needs or hospital hours.
Education and training of a dentist
Aspiring dentists must enroll in an accredited dental program after completing their bachelor's degree. Dental school applicants typically take the Dental Admission Test (D.A.T.). In addition to grade point averages, interviews, and recommendations, dental schools use this test to admit candidates into their programs. Dental school applicants must hold a bachelor's degree in a science discipline. Although there is no necessary undergraduate major, schools prefer applicants with a bachelor's degree in biology or chemistry.
After completing dental school, dentists earn a D.D.S. (Doctor of Dental Surgery) or D.M.D. (Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry) degree. The Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) must recognize the dental program. Dental school curriculums cover local anesthesia, anatomy, periodontology, and radiology. All dental school programs include supervised clinical experience in which students work directly with patients.
General dentists require no education beyond dental school. Those who wish to teach or conduct full-time research may require further dental training, such as a postdoctoral program in general dentistry.
To become specialized, dentists must finish extra training in a specialty. This training typically consists of 2-4 years of residency in a CODA-accredited program, culminating in a postdoctoral certificate or master's degree. Oral and maxillofacial surgery programs take four to six years and may lead to a joint Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) degree.
Dentists must get a license in the state where they practice. The licensing criteria for dentists differ from state to state. To earn licensure, a dentist must clear the National Board Dental Examination (NBDE) and state-specific examinations.
Specialties in dentistry
The National Commission of Recognition of Dental Specialties and Certifying Boards (NCRDSCB) lists 12 dental specializations in the U.S. The following are the specialty definitions adopted by the NCRDSCB -
- Dental anesthesiology is a branch of dentistry and anesthesiology dealing with pain management, anxiety, and overall patient health. The specialty is committed to increasing patient safety and access to dental treatment for all patients, especially the very young and those with unique healthcare requirements.
- Dental public health prevents and controls dental illnesses and promotes dental health through organized community activities. This type of dentistry treats the community rather than the individual as a patient. It focuses on public dental health education, applied dental research, and group dental care programs on a community-wide scale.
- Endodontics concerns the morphology, biology, physiology, disease, and regeneration of the tooth pulp and periradicular tissues. The study consists of basic and clinical sciences, including biology of the normal pulp and treatment of diseases/injuries of the pulp, as well as associated periradicular disorders.
- Oral and maxillofacial pathology focuses on the nature, diagnosis, and treatment of ailments affecting the oral and maxillofacial regions. It studies the causes, mechanisms, and consequences of various disorders. Oral pathology entails investigating and diagnosing illnesses utilizing clinical, radiographic, microscopic, biochemical, and other tests.
- Oral and maxillofacial radiology produces and interprets images and data about the mouth and surrounding regions.
- Oral and maxillofacial surgery deals with the surgical and adjunctive treatment of conditions affecting the soft and hard mouth tissues and surrounding regions.
- Oral medicine deals with the oral health of complex patients and diagnosing and treating diseases, disorders, and problems affecting the oral and maxillofacial region.
- Orofacial pain involves diagnosing, managing, and treating jaw, mouth, face, head, or neck pain. This specialty is devoted to the evidence-based understanding of these illnesses' pathophysiology, causation, prevention, and treatment and enhancing patient access to interdisciplinary care.
- Orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics deal with the diagnosis, prevention, interception, and treatment of malocclusion, in addition to neuromuscular and skeletal abnormalities of the orofacial structures.
- Pediatric dentistry provides primary preventive and therapeutic oral care for infants, children, and adolescents. They also cater to those with specific healthcare requirements. If you want dental care for your child, seek specialized care from the best pediatric dentists near you.
- Periodontics deals with the disorders of the tissues that support and surround the teeth or their substitutes.
- Prosthodontics is concerned with oral function, comfort, appearance, and health in patients with conditions related to missing or deficient oral and maxillofacial tissues or teeth.
When should you see a dentist?
Consider booking a dental appointment when you are looking for:
- Preventive care: Getting your teeth checked would help prevent and treat serious problems before it is too late. Your dentist checks for signs of dental decay, gum problems, and oral cancer. Your dental hygienist will remove plaque and buildup during cleanings, which often cause tooth decay and gum disease. Preventive checkups also include learning more tips on how to care for your teeth.
- Maintenance and health: Once you have had a dental procedure, you may require the dentist's attention to ensure everything is okay. If you are pregnant, have underlying medical conditions, or use tobacco, the dentist will coordinate with other healthcare providers for the best outcomes.
- Pain relief: If you feel pain or discomfort in your teeth, gums, or mouth, you should see a dentist. Generally, pain and swelling mean something is wrong; your dentist can check that out for you and provide appropriate treatment.
Other signs that you need to see a dentist are:
- Abscessed tooth
- Bruxism or teeth-grinding
- Chipped or broken teeth
- Jaw pain
- Persistent bad breath
- Sensitive teeth
- Sores and lumps in the mouth
- Swollen or bleeding gums.
Regular dental appointments help in treating issues before they worsen. Schedule your visits at intervals recommended by your dentist. Usually, experts advise dental visits every six months. You will need more frequent visits if you are susceptible to cavities or gum disease. Ask your dentist what would work best for you.
Do you get worried at the thought of visiting a dentist? Dental anxiety is very real. You should tell your dentist if you feel nervous about your dental appointment. They would happily address your concerns and offer sedation options to help you feel more comfortable. Finding the best pediatric dentist near you who provides compassionate and expert care is especially important for children.
How to care for our teeth
Ensuring your teeth' well-being is crucial for dental and overall health. Consistent personal commitment to maintaining optimal dental health is necessary. Establishing a dental routine helps keep your teeth healthy and your oral cavity free from potential dental problems. Taking preventive measures in advance rather than seeking a dentist in your vicinity in an emergency later is wiser. A basic dental care routine can benefit significantly and help prevent future health issues, reducing anxiety and stress. Here are some ways to care for your teeth and why they are effective:
- Regular brushing - Brushing twice a day is fundamental for healthy teeth as it prevents bacterial growth/plaque buildup, which can lead to gum diseases if neglected.
- Tongue cleaning - Cleaning your tongue daily is essential to maintaining oral health. Neglecting this can cause bad breath, tooth decay, and other oral issues. Tongue cleaning is a crucial aspect of preventive care.
- Flossing - Flossing complements brushing by reaching areas between teeth that toothbrush bristles cannot access. It helps remove trapped food particles, prevent cavities, and reduce gum inflammation.
- Dietary habits - Being mindful of your diet is vital for dental health. Avoiding sweet and acidic foods, and minimizing soda consumption, is crucial. Acidic foods can erode our tooth enamel, causing cavities, while sugary foods contribute to dental decay.
- Regular dental checkups - Scheduling routine appointments with a local dentist is essential. Biannual visits enable early detection of dental issues, allowing for timely preventive measures and treatments. Regular checkups include teeth whitening and fluoride treatment to maintain tooth strength and whiteness.
What to expect during your dental checkup?
Visiting the dentist doesn’t have to be intimidating. Dentists and hygienists aim to make procedures as comfortable as possible by offering options like TV, movies, or sedation to help distract you during treatment. Whether it’s your first visit or a routine checkup, every appointment is a step toward better oral health and a brighter smile.
To ease any anxiety, plan ahead by allowing sufficient time off from work or school. When booking your appointment, ask the dental office about the expected duration of the cleaning and exam, especially if it has been a while since your last visit. Consider scheduling an end-of-day appointment, which can be especially helpful as it allows you to relax afterward. If you have dental insurance, check whether your dentist is in-network to save on costs and clarify potential expenses. Arriving early ensures you have time to complete any necessary paperwork. Remember to carry your ID and insurance card.
Your visit usually starts with a hygienist using specific tools to clean your teeth and remove plaque and tartar. If you experience discomfort at any point, let them know—they can adjust or take breaks to make you more comfortable. After the cleaning, the dentist will polish your teeth with a rotating tool and flavored paste, followed by a rinse. The dentist may also take X-rays to detect issues that aren’t visible during the exam. They will then use a periodontal probe to examine teeth and gums for potential problems. Once the examination is complete, the dentist will explain any findings and discuss the next steps.
If it has been a long time since your last visit, the cleaning may be more intensive and could include additional procedures. Removing tartar buildup may cause some discomfort, but it is an essential step for maintaining your oral health. If any issue is identified, the dentist will guide you through appropriate steps to address it effectively.
How can you find a dentist near you in Pleasanton, California?
Are you in search of the best dentists that suit your specific needs? Look no further! Zocdoc is your ultimate destination for finding top-notch healthcare providers near you. Whether you require a routine checkup, specialized treatments, or emergency dental care, your needs are covered.
Our user-friendly platform lets you browse a curated list of dentists in Pleasanton. Download the mobile app or register for an account on the Zocdoc website. Mention your symptoms or the specialist you are looking for, and enter your location for more specific results. You can review each doctor's qualifications and expertise, read testimonials from past patients, and book appointments that work with your schedule.
Zocdoc can also help you find one of the best pediatric dentists in your vicinity so that your child receives quality care. If you are concerned about whether the doctor will accept your health insurance plan, use the Zocdoc insurance checker to focus your search on in-network doctors.
You may also apply filters for language and gender preferences.
Our online patient support center helps you find dentists who accept your insurance. With Zocdoc, you can link your medical, dental, and vision insurance plans to your account; however, only one plan can be used per appointment.
If you have multiple insurance plans, you can add your secondary insurance details in the appointment notes. Alternatively, if your provider utilizes Zocdoc’s Intake forms, you can enter your secondary insurance information directly.
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Dental health statistics in California, United States
Per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, over one-quarter of adults (26%) are affected by untreated tooth decay. Gum disease affects nearly half (46%) of all adults aged 30 and up; severe gum disease affects about 9%.
Further, about 63% of adults aged 18 and up visited a dentist in 2020, and roughly 87% of children aged 2-17 had a dental visit in 2019. According to the United Health Foundation, roughly 65% of adults in California visited a dentist in 2020, as compared to approximately 67% of Americans.
As per data provided by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, about 18,240 dentists were practicing in California in 2022. California ranked highest for the number of active dentists per state. According to the American Dental Association, California had approximately 78 dentists per 100,000 residents, compared to 61 dentists per 100,000 Americans in 2020. The state had seen a 2.3% increase in active oral health physicians in the past decade.
Sources
American Dental Education Association
WebMD[1]
WebMD[2]
WebMD[3]
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics[1]
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics[2]
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics[3]
Centers For Disease Control and Prevention
United Health Foundation
American Dental Association[1]
American Dental Association[2]
Cleveland Clinic
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