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Who are dentists, and what are their educational qualifications?

Dentists train and practice preventing, diagnosing, and treating all teeth, gums, and mouth issues. In addition to oral health problems, dentists are the first doctors to detect the early signs of systemic conditions from their oral manifestations, such as diabetes, hypertension, and heart infections. They also diagnose several cancers affecting the head and neck, which show signs and symptoms in the mouth.

After completing an undergraduate degree in biology, health, or chemistry, students interested in becoming dentists clear the dental admission test and apply to accredited dental schools. The dental degree is a four-year course with two years of pre-clinical study and two years of clinical practice. Upon earning a degree in Doctor of Dental Medicine (DDM) or Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS), dentists in the U.S. must clear the appropriate written and practical licensing exams in the state they wish to practice. The dentists who pass the National Board Dental Examination get board certification; this step is optional in the U.S. and depends on the doctor's choice.

Post-graduate courses in dentistry are also optional and take one to three years to finish. 

Dentists interested in specializing have various options: pedodontics, orthodontics, periodontics, endodontics, prosthodontics, oral medicine, oral and maxillofacial surgery, cosmetic dentistry, or implant dentistry.

Different types of dentists

Dentistry goes beyond routine cleanings and fillings. While general dentists are the most commonly known professionals in this field, several dental specialists focus on specific areas of oral health. Here's a look at different types of dentists and their unique roles in dental care:

General dentists

General dentists provide numerous preventive and restorative dental services. They perform routine exams, cleanings, fillings, sealants, and teeth whitening. Many also offer services like crowns, bridges, and dental implants. They are usually the first professionals people visit for oral health concerns.

Endodontists

Endodontists specialize in treating problems inside the tooth, particularly involving the tooth pulp and roots. They perform root canal treatments and manage tooth pain or infection originating from within.

Oral surgeons

Also known as oral and maxillofacial surgeons, these experts handle complex surgical procedures. Some of these include tooth extractions, jaw surgeries, and treatment of facial trauma.

Orthodontists

Orthodontists specialize in straightening crooked teeth and aligning jaws. They rely on braces, clear aligners, and similar tools to improve bite function and aesthetics.

Pediatric dentists (Pedodontists)

Pediatric dentists treat children, including infants and teens. They help manage tooth development, early cavities, and dental habits such as thumb-sucking, often creating a comfortable environment for young patients.

Periodontists

These specialists treat gum disease and issues affecting the supportive tissues and jawbone surrounding the teeth. They also perform procedures like gum grafts and periodontal cleanings.

Prosthodontists

Prosthodontists design and place dental prosthetics, including crowns, bridges, dentures, and implant-supported restorations. They help restore both appearance and function after tooth loss.

Public health dentists

Public health dentists focus on community dental well-being. They design and manage programs to prevent oral disorders, especially in underserved populations.

Forensic dentists

Also known as forensic odontologists, these professionals assist in identifying individuals through dental records and analyzing bite marks in legal investigations.

Each type of dentist contributes to comprehensive oral health care through their specialized expertise.

What are the common conditions treated by a dentist?

Dental conditions cause pain and discomfort in the teeth and mouth. The problems often stem from poor oral hygiene or underlying medical conditions such as diabetes. They can impact an individual's self-confidence and ability to enjoy certain foods.

A large number of dental professionals stress the need for early prevention to avoid dental problems. They recommend regular checkups, brushing and flossing daily, and maintaining healthy teeth and gums. 

A dentist near you can help treat the following common conditions:

• Cavities: Tooth decay causes cavities. It occurs when a sticky layer of bacteria builds up on the teeth daily. It produces harmful acids that can damage the hard layer of the mouth that holds the teeth in place. Cavities can damage teeth by creating holes in them. Moreover, it can be painful and cause further damage if left untreated.
• Gum disease: Plaque buildup on the gums can lead to gum disease. The harmful bacteria can cause inflammation and infection. Gums become red and tender and may bleed if the condition worsens. Dentists can help prevent tooth loss by treating the issue before it worsens.
• Tooth sensitivity: Some individuals cannot eat hard or cold foods due to tooth sensitivity. They experience sharp pain in the tooth when they try to eat it. Fractured teeth, gum disease, worn-out tooth enamel, exposed roots, and cavities are the causes. It would help if you went to a dentist to get treatment for the condition. They will replace the lost tissues at the root or perform root canal fillings.
• Dry mouth: It occurs when a person is unable to salivate normally. As a result, it can make it difficult to speak, eat, taste, or swallow. One of the common reasons for the condition is taking certain medications. It can also increase the risk of developing infections and cavities.
• Oral cancer: Dental problems can often worsen into severe conditions in the mouth and throat. Failure to treat it early on can lead to oral cancer. However, regular checkups from a dentist near you can diagnose most cases. They can catch early signs of cancer before it develops further.

How does diabetes affect oral health?

Those with high blood sugar levels face difficulty maintaining a healthy mouth. Diabetic patients also have high sugar levels in the saliva, making it easier for bacteria to thrive and cause decay, cavities, and gum problems. Many diabetic patients also complain of reduced saliva in the mouth, leading to dry mouth. These people are also more prone to fungal infections and frequently develop thrush in the mouth and tongue. 

If sugar levels in the blood are higher than usual, the white blood cells weaken, and the whole body's immune system breaks down, making it challenging to prevent oral issues. Any infection, including teeth-related, takes longer to heal in people with diabetes. Smoking, when combined with the complications of diabetes, leads to reduced blood flow into the gums and, therefore, impaired wound healing.

To safeguard against oral health issues in individuals with diabetes, it is crucial to effectively control their blood sugar levels through the use of medications, adherence to a suitable diet, and regular physical activity. In addition to this, diabetic patients should schedule regular dental checkups where the dentists will evaluate the condition of the mouth, perform a deep cleaning of all teeth surfaces, and take X-rays as and when needed.

Some strategies for diabetic patients to practice at home when it comes to dental care start by brushing teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoridated toothpaste. They should floss their teeth at least once daily and self-examine for any signs of gum disease, such as bleeding, pain in the mouth, loose teeth, or dry mouth. Denture wearers must remove and clean their dentures daily using a medically approved denture cleaning solution. Quitting smoking helps reduce dental problems in all patients, especially among people with diabetes.

What are dental sealants, and are they effective for the teeth?

Dental sealants are protective layers that cover the grooves and depressions in the chewing surfaces of the back teeth. They act as a shield over the enamel, preventing decay in the premolars and molars. The chewing surface of the back teeth has several nooks and crannies where food and plaque can accumulate, so it is most susceptible to dental caries. Once applied, dental sealants protect against 80% of cavities for the first two years and around 50% for the next four years. 

Dental sealants are a preventive solution and the cheapest, easiest, painless, and quickest option to prevent cavities. On the other hand, dental fillings take longer treatment times, are often painful, are pretty expensive, and can take several follow-up visits. Dental sealants are generally applied in kids once the permanent premolars and molars erupt, typically between 6 and 14 years of age. However, dental sealants are equally effective in protecting the teeth of adults with caries-prone teeth. In some rare cases, sealants are also applied to the milk teeth to cover up all the deep grooves.

The process of applying the sealants is pretty straightforward. After thoroughly cleaning and drying all the teeth, the dentist uses acid to roughen the chewing surface so it bonds well with the sealants. After a round of rinsing and drying, the dentist paints the dental sealant on the chewing surface. While some dental sealants harden independently, some require curing using a special light. Once the sealants bond, the dentist will ask you to check for any falling off regularly. They will check during general dental checkups for chipping and peeling of the sealants.

Once placed on the teeth, dental sealants protect them for close to 10 years. In cases where they fall off, dental sealants are extremely easy and painless to replace. With diet practices rampant among kids nowadays, they are one of the best ways to maintain healthy and strong teeth.

What to expect at a dental checkup?

Going to the dentist or seeing one after a long period can be nerve-wracking, especially if you have a dental phobia or anxiety. Tell your dental care team about the same before or during your appointment. They can offer options, including sedation alternatives, to help you stay comfortable and relaxed. Further, discussing your treatment in detail and asking questions can help ease your fear.

The checkup begins with your dentist and their team wanting to learn the basic health information. This includes your medical history, any previous surgeries, tests, and medicines you are taking (including over-the-counter medications). Inform your dentist if you suffer from any chronic conditions, such as diabetes and heart disease.

The doctor then conducts dental prophylaxis, which refers to preventive dental procedures and includes dental examinations and cleaning. A standard examination involves reviewing the entire oral cavity (teeth, jaws, gums) to detect issues within your dental structures or potential problems you may be at risk of. If your dentist deems it necessary, this may be followed up by a cleaning. 

Before the thorough assessment, you will have to sit on a dental chair, with the dental hygienist placing a plastic cover or paper on your chest. Your dentist will then take over and ask where you've been experiencing pain and other symptoms while checking your mouth's insides. They will then examine the teeth for any cavities, decay, or gaps between your teeth. Your dentist may also try to identify other oral problems, such as those within the supporting bone structures, gum disease, or tartar buildup. Tell them about jaw pain or chewing and swallowing difficulties if you experience any. They may take an X-ray to understand your dental structures comprehensively. 

After examining your oral cavity, your doctor or the hygienist may do a dental cleaning. This step involves removing any tartar or plaque buildup. Depending on the severity, tooth scaling and root planing are required. Your dentist may also perform certain preventive services during the visits, such as dental sealants and fluoride treatments. Further, polishing your teeth with a special rubber cup and pumice paste to remove stains and biofilm on the teeth may be on their to-do list. They take care not to damage the enamel.

Routine dental checkups help determine your risk for oral conditions, especially if you have a genetic predisposition. Dentists also share oral hygiene tips with patients and their families. For example, one must follow the correct way to brush one's teeth and follow the proper dental ritual throughout the day. In the end, based on your oral condition, your dentist may ask you to schedule frequent follow-up visits. 

Find the best dentists near you in Sherman Oaks, Los Angeles, California

Whether you want to get sealants for your kids, get that long-standing sore in the mouth checked out, or go for a general dental checkup, finding the right dentist to understand your needs and act in your best interests is difficult. With Zocdoc, you can find the perfect dentist in just a few clicks. The meticulously designed Zocdoc website caters to all your needs and requirements. It allows you to filter dental care providers based on your issues, the type of dental specialist you wish to see, whether you want the clinic near your home or office, your zip code, and even the date and time for a preferred appointment.

You can make in-person or virtual appointments using Zocdoc. If you are worried about dental treatment burning a deep hole through your monthly or yearly budget, Zocdoc has got you covered. With Zocdoc, you can choose a dentist based on your current medical or dental insurance policy and plan. Choose your insurance from the drop-down menu on the web page, and Zocdoc will immediately list all the in-network dentists. If you cannot find your healthcare plan from the drop-down menu, try uploading a photo of your insurance card. Once you upload it, Zocdoc will scan it and show you your likely plan. Note that you can use this option for medical insurance cards only. Dental and vision are excluded. If you need help uploading your insurance card, contact Zocdoc's service team. You can also visit Zocdoc's patient help center for answers to other insurance-related queries. 

If you have more questions, click on a dentist's profile to get complete access to detailed information, which includes the doctor's education, certifications, awards, work experience, and practice. The profile also tells you about the dentist's language preferences, places, days, times they offer consultations, and cultural background. Zocdoc also includes verified patient reviews and ratings for your perusal. You can use the contact information in the profile to speak directly with the clinic if you need more clarification.

On Zocdoc, all bookings with dentists near you are fast, free, and secure!

Oral health statistics in Sherman Oaks, California

As per a U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics study, "Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics" report, from May 2023, about 18,820 general dentists were legally practicing in California. It further stated that the state also employed about 1060 orthodontists, 24,880 dental hygienists, and 56,870 dental assistants during this time.

The "Smile Survey 2020," published by the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, highlights results for L.A. County's kindergarteners and third graders. This report shows decreased past or current tooth decay among kindergarteners and third graders from 2005 (66%) to 2020 (55%). During the same period, the percentage of children in the county who had untreated dental caries improved by 23%. 

However, the report also had several negatives. The most shocking part was that close to 4,500 kids in this age group had a severe oral infection and needed urgent attention. The results regarding dental sealants could have been more satisfactory, too; only 31% (only one out of every three) of the kids had dental sealants, while the average percentage for the whole of the U.S. is around 42%.

The Cancer Statistics Center publishes yearly cancer incidence and deaths in the U.S. The Center has estimated that in 2023, nearly 5,070 new cases of oropharyngeal cancer will be diagnosed, and around 1,140 people will die from this cancer in California. The incidence rate for oropharyngeal cancer from 2015 to 2019 was nearly 10.2, and the death rate between 2016 and 2020 was 2.4 in the state.

Sources

WebMD[1]

WebMD[2]

Cleveland Clinic[1]

Cleveland Clinic[2]

American Diabetes Association

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Los Angeles County Department of Public Health

Cancer Statistics Center

WebMD[3]

WebMD[4]

WebMD[5]

MedlinePlus

Cleveland Clinic[3]

Cleveland Clinic[4]

Verywell Health

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.