The majority of dentists are general practitioners, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Dentists prevent, diagnose and treat problems of the teeth and mouth tissues, and also educate patients about how to care for their teeth and gums to avoid problems in the future.
Routine Checkups
A family or general dentist provides preventative care as well as dental treatment. During checkups, the dentist oversees a routine cleaning of your mouth to stop the buildup of plaque and prevent tooth decay. The dentist also oversees and interprets your dental x-rays to monitor the health of your teeth and jaw. By visiting the dentist regularly and following his instructions for good oral hygiene, you can prevent serious dental problems from developing.
Equipment
Dentists use certain instruments in every basic exam, and some specialized instruments for specific dental procedures. Standard instruments such as mouth mirrors, dental explorers or probes and saliva ejectors, allow the dentist to examine teeth, manipulate tissue and control saliva. More involved dental work may require the dentist to administer anesthesia, and use a dental drill.
Teeth and Gum Problems
Teeth problems addressed by the dentist include dental plaque, a film which forms between and on the teeth; toothache, which can be caused by sensitivity, decay, infection or a crack or fracture; and wisdom teeth, which may require removal to avoid future problems. The dentist may perform a root canal treatment to remove diseased pulp tissue from inside a tooth. Dentists treat gum problems such as gingivitis, a chronic inflammation of the gums, and periodontal disease, which is more advanced gum disease.
Tooth Restoration
A dentist can help you maintain dental health by restoring teeth that are decayed or damaged. Dental crowns protect and repair teeth damaged by trauma or decay. The dentist can also create a dental bridge to fill in for missing teeth, or fit you for dentures to replace some or all of your missing teeth.
Specialties
Some dentists choose to specialize in a subfield of dentistry. Orthodontists specialize in teeth straightening. Endodontists specialize in more complicated root canal treatments and prosthodontists in more complicated crowns and dental implants. Pediatric dentists work exclusively with children. A dentist may also specialize in oral & maxillofacial surgery, radiology or pathology.
Dental Visits
The American Dental Association recommends that adults get regular checkups a minimum of twice a year, since even if you have no problems you are still at risk for cavities, gum disease and mouth cancer. If you have dentures, you should have the dentist check your mouth and dentures at least once a year. Parents should take their child to the dentist as soon as the first teeth come in, and schedule regular dental visits to check for tooth decay and evaluate habits such as thumb-sucking.
