The branch of medicine which involves the study of conditions affecting the oral cavity is known as dentistry. It also has to do with the diagnosis of these disorders as well as their treatment and prevention. Dentists are doctors who practice dentistry. Dentists do not work alone. Just like there are nurses to aid regular doctors, there are dental assistants to help the dentist.
Early dental education goes way back. This goes to show that people recognize the need for good oral hygiene as early as the 1800s. The first dental school in the world opened in 1840 in the United States. This was the Baltimore College of Dental Surgery. The Philadelphia Dental College quickly followed suit in 1863. Dentistry became a regulated practice in the UK by 1921.
There are only seven schools which offer dental education in the UK. This makes competition for places in either of these very fierce. Funding problems are also a direct consequence of this low number. In most developed parts of the world, dentists are regarded as health care practitioners and are qualified to practice on attaining their degree. However, they are required to complete at least four years of post graduate studies before practicing dentistry.
Although the schools that dentists graduate from offer the same education, surveys have shown that different graduates from different schools or countries may not consider the same approach to solve the same problem. An example of this would be the all too familiar wisdom tooth. While one from the Middle East may go for extraction, a western trained doctor will not opt for this.
When it comes to the treatment of oral diseases, a dentist would be your safest option. The two most common problems dealt with in practice are periodontal disease and dental carries. These are known as gum disease and tooth decay respectively. Carries may either be filled if they are not so severe or in the event that they are, the tooth may be removed all together. Scaling is used for periodontal problems and root canals for abscessed teeth.
Apart from diagnosing problems in teeth and other oral tissue, Dentists also give advice and instruction on administering care to the oral cavity. They stress on issues like brushing, diet, flossing and other aspects of care. It should be remembered that prevention is always better than cure. Dental issues are expensive to address while preventive measures on the other hand are very cheap to maintain
Some oral diseases may also be indicative of other underlying problems in the rest of the body. Chronic diseases such as diabetes, osteoporosis and cancer are some of the problems mouth disease may point to. Many studies have been done and it has been proven that gum disease is indicative of being prone to heart disease and early birth. This makes oral check-ups of great importance.
Every dentist has to be up to date with the latest in technological advancement in his or her line of work. Dentistry involves the use of a variety of equipment, both electrical and manual to treat their patients. A few of these include drills, probes, scalpels, lasers and scanners.
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For experienced, skilled, and caring Thornhill Dental professionals, visit Thornhill Dentist. We provide a full range of services that help keep your smile beautiful. Dentistry in Thornhill 2300 John Street, Thornhill, ON L3T 6G7 (905) 731-4611
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