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Who is a dentist?

A dentist is a healthcare practitioner who helps prevent, diagnose, and treat oral health diseases. They also help diagnose and treat gums, teeth, and mouth-related problems. A dentist can help maintain good oral health, impacting an individual's overall well-being. 

A dentist leads a team of dental assistants, dental hygienists, and lab technicians. This team approach works out smoothly in dentistry as it promotes comprehensive, convenient, cost-effective, and efficient continuity of care. 

What does a dentist do?

Dentists are essential in providing their patients with superior dental care and treatment. Their list of duties includes:

1. Designing treatment plans to maintain or restore a patient's oral health.
2. Diagnosis of oral diseases.
3. Interpretation of diagnostic tests & x-rays.
4. Management of oral trauma and other emergencies related to it. 
5. Monitoring development and growth of the jaw & teeth. 
6. Performing surgical procedures on the oral cavity's bone, teeth, and soft tissues. 
7. Safe administration of anesthetics.

Are dentists doctors?

Dentists are not conventional doctors of medicine or M.D.s. However, they follow a career path similar to that of a traditional doctor. Dentists undertake significant studies to acquire a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree. Before this, they must also complete an undergraduate biology, chemistry, health, or math program. 

In the United States, dental licensure requirements vary from state to state. However, each dentist must meet three criteria for licensure: educational, written, and clinical examination. 

After getting a license, some dentists may take the National Board Dental Examination and become certified dentists. Depending on their specialty area, dentists may have to complete a postgraduate residency of one to three years. 

Subspecialties within dentistry 

After completing dental school, some dentists undergo additional training of two to three years to specialize in one or more areas of dentistry that focus on treating specific issues. These dentists may also be called subspecialists. Some common dental subspecialties include:

• Orthodontics: It is a field of dentistry that involves straightening your teeth and realigning your bite for optimal health and function. Orthodontists offer treatment like retainers, braces, and clear aligners. 
• Endodontics: It focuses on providing root canal therapy or RCT for people with deep cavities or tooth decay. A general dentist may perform root canal surgery, too. 
• Implant dentistry: Implant dentists offer long-term teeth replacement options (dental implants). Oral surgeons and periodontists, for example, may also be competent to insert dental implants. 
• Prosthodontics: It involves creating dental fixtures such as dentures, implants, bridges, and crowns that look similar to natural teeth. Prosthodontic appliances may be permanent or removable.
• Reconstructive dentistry: Some dental specialists focus on full mouth reconstruction or rehabilitation. Reconstruction may be required for individuals with gum disease or extensive cavities. 
• Pedodontics, or pediatric dentistry: It involves treating teeth and gum diseases in infants, adolescents, children, and teenagers. 
• Oral and maxillofacial surgery: It involves treating injuries, diseases, and abnormalities in the jawbone and other orofacial structures. Oral and maxillofacial surgeons also perform wisdom teeth removals. 
• Cosmetic dentistry: Cosmetic dentists generally focus on improving the appearance of your teeth. This treatment option may be for crooked, chipped, or misaligned teeth. Cosmetic dentists provide treatments like teeth whitening, dental bonding, and veneers.  

What are the most common dental issues?

Brushing two times a day, flossing every day, consuming a healthy diet, and getting regular checkups can most often avoid dental problems.

Educating yourself about the same can also help prevent them. Visit a dentist near you if you suspect you have the following oral problems:

• Bad breath or halitosis is an awkward issue; most of the time, there is an underlying dental condition to blame for the same. Gum disease, oral cancer, cavities, dry mouth, or germs on the tongue can all cause it.
• Cavities or tooth decay is the second most common health condition in the United States. It occurs when plaque combines with sugars and starches in your food. The resulting product produces acids that attack the tooth enamel. Dry mouth, aging, and normal enamel erosion can cause cavities.
• An infection in the gums of the teeth is known as periodontal or gum disease. It is a prominent cause of adult tooth loss. Diabetes, dry mouth, and smoking are significant risk factors. The symptoms can include bad breath, swollen and bleeding gums, sensitive teeth, and pain while chewing.
• Oral cancer is a severe and deadly disorder commonly occurring in people aged around their 40s. If diagnosed and treated in the early stages, it is often curable. Smoking or chewing tobacco, alcohol abuse, and human papillomavirus (HPV) are the most prominent risk factors. Standard mouth or throat cancer symptoms include sores, lumps, or difficulty chewing or moving your tongue or jaw.
• Mouth sores can be of many types and are very bothersome. Unless they last more than two weeks, they are not a significant cause of concern. Some common mouth sores include canker sores (triggered by varying causes), fever blisters or cold sores (caused by Herpes simplex virus), and thrush (caused by yeast infection).
• When the tooth structure is lost due to acid dissolving the enamel, it is called tooth erosion.
• Tooth sensitivity is a common issue that involves pain and discomfort from sweets, cold air, hot or cold beverages, and ice cream.
• Dental emergencies can also include a broken or cracked tooth, an abscessed (pus) tooth, or accidental tooth loss.

How can you manage dental emergencies at home?

Encountering a dental emergency before your scheduled appointment can be distressing, but knowing how to manage symptoms at home can provide relief until you can see your dentist. Taking immediate action can often prevent further complications and alleviate discomfort. By following these steps for common dental emergencies, you can effectively address the condition and ensure proper care until professional help is available.

Persistent toothache:

If you are experiencing persistent tooth pain, rinse your mouth with warm water and cautiously floss to dislodge debris. Over-the-counter painkillers like acetaminophen, naproxen, or ibuprofen can help alleviate discomfort. Refrain from placing aspirin directly on your gums, as it may irritate it. Contact an emergency dentist near you immediately to schedule an emergency appointment.

Minor chipped or cracked tooth:

Waiting until your dental appointment is generally acceptable for minor chips or cracks without pain. However, if sharp edges cause irritation, cover the area with orthodontic wax to prevent further discomfort.

Broken braces:

While broken braces may be uncomfortable, they typically do not constitute a dental emergency unless bleeding occurs. If a broken wire pokes your cheek or tongue, gently bend it using a pencil eraser and cover it with orthodontic wax to avoid irritation until you can see your dentist or orthodontist.

Object lodged between teeth:

If something becomes lodged between your teeth, carefully extract it using dental floss or an interproximal brush. Avoid using sharp instruments, as they may cause further injury.

Soft tissue injury:

For minor soft tissue injuries, gargle your mouth with a saltwater solution or antibacterial mouthwash. Then, apply pressure to the affected area with clean cotton gauze. If bleeding persists after 15 to 20 minutes, seek immediate medical attention.

While these measures can provide temporary relief, it is crucial to contact a dentist near you for prompt evaluation and treatment of any dental emergency.

Tips to care for your oral health

Caring for your teeth requires a lifelong commitment and consistent effort. Even if your teeth appear healthy, daily habits and the right oral care products are essential to maintaining their condition and preventing problems.

1. Brush before bed: Brushing at least twice a day is essential, especially before bedtime. It removes germs and plaque that accumulate throughout the day.
2. Use proper brushing technique: Brush gently in circular motions to effectively remove plaque. Neglecting this can lead to hardened plaque, known as calculus, and early gum disease.
3. Don't forget your tongue: Plaque accumulation on the tongue can result in oral health problems and foul breath. Gently brush your tongue each time you clean your teeth.
4. Choose fluoride toothpaste: Fluoride strengthens teeth by fighting decay and forming a protective barrier. Prioritize fluoride over whitening or flavored toothpaste.
5. Treat flossing as essential: Flossing removes debris and plaque between teeth that brushing misses. A once-daily flossing routine is beneficial.
6. Overcome flossing challenges: If flossing is difficult, consider alternatives like ready-to-use dental flossers to maintain your routine.
7. Incorporate mouthwash: Mouthwash can reduce acidity, clean hard-to-reach areas, and strengthen teeth. Consult your dentist for recommendations suited to your needs.
8. Stay hydrated: Water is essential for dental hygiene and general health. Water consumption after meals aids in the removal of acids and food particles.  
9. Eat crunchy foods: Fresh, crunchy fruits and vegetables promote healthy teeth by stimulating chewing and providing fiber.
10. Limit sugar and acid: Minimize sugary and acidic foods, as they may weaken tooth enamel and lead to cavities.
11. Visit your dentist regularly: Regular dental checkups, at least twice a year, help remove tartar, detect cavities, and address potential issues early.

Find the best dentist in Tucson, AZ

Are you feeling pain and discomfort in your teeth when you consume something hot or cold? Do you have mouth ulcers that are not going away? Are you having difficulty chewing and moving your jaw? Are you facing any dental emergencies? If so, only an experienced and certified dentist or emergency dentist near you can help you by providing the best treatment plan and oral health care suggestions. 

With Zocdoc, you can easily find a good dentist in Tucson who accepts your insurance plan. Search by entering your location (Tucson, Arizona), doctor's specialty (dentist), symptoms, and preferred appointment date. Once you've done this, Zocdoc will show an extensive and filtered list of the best dentists in Tucson who match your requirements.

At Zocdoc, transparency is vital. Hence, each dentist's profile includes a brief introduction, educational qualifications, practice location, visit reasons, insurance acceptance, and patient ratings and reviews. If your insurance plan isn't listed on Zocdoc, you can upload a photo of your medical insurance card (note that this option is not available for vision or dental insurance). Zocdoc will scan the card and display your likely plan. If you encounter any difficulties uploading your card image, feel free to reach out to our service team for assistance. For more insurance-related questions, you can visit Zocdoc's patient help center. Once you have chosen an emergency dentist near you, you can book an in-person or video appointment based on your doctor's availability.

Booking appointments using Zocdoc is 100% easy, accessible, and safe!

Dental health in Tucson, Arizona

The American Cancer Society, 2024 reported an estimated 58,450 new cases and 13,230 estimated deaths by oropharyngeal cancer. In 2017, a mortality rate of 2.0 per 100,000 caused by oropharyngeal cancer in Arizona was reported by the CDC United States Cancer Statistics Registry.

The State Basic Screening Survey in 2015 stated that around 64% of the third-grade children's population had a history of dental caries or tooth decay due to excessive sugar consumption. Over 28% of that population had untreated dental caries due to insufficient dental care access. Besides dental caries, over 44% of the kid's population had dental sealants. 

The National Survey of Children's Health in 2018 stated that around 80.6% of the Arizonian children's population visited the dentist the previous year. The Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS) Office of Oral Health conducted a statewide oral health survey in 2015, showing substantial oral healthcare disparities.

Sources

American Cancer Society

American Dental Education Association

Maine Dental Association

Arizona Department of Health Services

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

National Oral Health Surveillance System

Verywell Health

WebMD

American Dental Association

Cleveland Clinic[1]

Cleveland Clinic[2]

Cleveland Clinic[3]

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.