What They Do
A dentist is a healthcare professional who specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of conditions affecting the teeth, gums, and mouth. Dentistry is generally recognized as a distinct healthcare field alongside medicine, with its own separate degree and training pathway rather than being a branch of general medical training.
What They Treat
Dentists manage a wide range of oral health conditions, including tooth decay, gum disease, and general oral hygiene, and perform procedures ranging from routine cleanings and fillings to more involved treatments such as root canals or tooth extractions. Many dentists further subspecialize in a specific area, such as orthodontics, which focuses on the alignment of teeth, oral surgery, or pediatric dentistry.
Training Path
Becoming a dentist requires completing a dedicated dental degree, which covers the anatomy, diagnosis, and treatment of conditions affecting the teeth, gums, and surrounding oral structures. Dentists who wish to further subspecialize, such as in orthodontics or oral surgery, complete additional specialized training beyond their general dental degree.
When to See One
People are generally advised to see a dentist for routine checkups and cleanings on a regular schedule, as well as for specific concerns such as tooth pain, visible decay, or gum problems. Because oral health can also reflect or affect broader overall health, dentists sometimes identify signs of other health conditions during a routine oral examination.
Background
Dentistry has ancient roots, with evidence of dental treatment dating back thousands of years across various early civilizations. The field developed into its modern, more formalized form starting in the 18th and 19th centuries, as dedicated dental training and professional standards became established, and dentistry has continued to advance considerably since then with improvements in techniques, materials, and pain management during procedures.