Dentistry is a field of medicine that focuses on the oral mucosa, which is the soft tissue in the mouth. It also includes treatment of diseases of the teeth, soft tissues, and supporting structures. Dental health is considered important in maintaining overall health.
A person who wants to improve their dental health should schedule regular check-ups with their dentist. Regular visits allow the dentist to detect early signs of tooth decay or gum disease. This allows the patient to receive treatment that is more manageable at an earlier stage. They can also identify other health concerns, such as a mouth cancer, before they become more serious.
The term dentistry is derived from the Latin word “dentis”, meaning tooth. In 1530, a book was published that was devoted to dentistry, although it was written in German rather than Latin. After that, other surgeons began to publish aspects of dental treatment.
Dentistry has many different specialties. These include orthodontics, prosthodontics, and oral and maxillofacial pathology. Another type of dentistry is odontology, which studies the development and structure of teeth.
Oral health has been the focus of a new public health strategy. Known as the Healthy Lives, Healthy People strategy, this approach aims to increase the number of people who live long and healthy lives. Taking good care of the teeth and gums is the best way to prevent problems and complications from developing.
The British Dental Association (BDA) is the leading dental organization in the United Kingdom. The BDA supports the Department of Health’s Healthy Lives, Healthy People strategy. In a new document, the BDA offers advice on the practice of dental health.
Evidence-based dentistry is a form of medicine that is based on the latest scientific findings. This type of dentistry focuses on the clinical and population-based aspects of oral health. For example, evidence-based dentistry considers the impact of a disease on the mouth, such as oral and systemic infections, on the entire population.
While most doctors have plenty of time to take care of other medical problems, dentists often have less. However, a dentist can perform many other services, such as x-rays, cleanings, and examining the condition of the jaw, neck, and head.
Various life events can cause changes in the mouth. If you are pregnant, you may need to see a dentist, as can people who use tobacco. Having an abscess on an infected tooth can cause pain, fever, and facial swelling.
When you visit a dentist, you will be asked about your medical history. Your doctor will then ask you about the medicines you are currently taking. Some medicines can cause dry mouth, which can make it harder to keep your teeth clean. You should bring a list of your current medications with you to your appointment.
Dentists are required to undergo a certain amount of training in order to be licensed. Often, they are trained through preceptorship with an established dentist. Sometimes, they will need to complete a postgraduate residency, which can be one to three years.
