What does a dentist do?

What is a Dentist?

Dentists specialize in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of oral health problems. They are highly trained individuals who work with patients to ensure that their teeth, gums, and mouth are healthy. They are responsible for diagnosing and treating conditions such as cavities, gum disease, and oral cancer. In addition, dentists may also perform procedures such as fillings, extractions, and root canals.

Dentists are an important part of the healthcare system, as oral health is closely linked to overall health. Poor oral health can lead to a variety of health problems, including heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections. As such, dentists play a critical role in helping patients maintain good oral health and preventing these types of health problems from occurring. Dentists also work closely with other healthcare professionals, such as doctors and dental hygienists, to ensure that patients receive comprehensive care.

Dentists help ensure the overall health and well-being of individuals by addressing oral health issues that can have systemic effects on the body, such as gum disease's link to heart disease or dental infections affecting overall immune health.

Duties and Responsibilities
The duties and responsibilities of a dentist may vary depending on their area of specialization, but generally include:

Diagnosing oral health problems: Dentists use their expertise to identify and diagnose dental issues in patients. This involves conducting thorough oral exams, reviewing dental X-rays, and taking into account the patient's medical history and lifestyle factors.
Developing treatment plans: Once a diagnosis has been made, dentists develop a customized treatment plan for the patient. This may involve prescribing medication, performing procedures such as fillings or extractions, or referring the patient to a specialist for more advanced treatment.
Performing procedures: Dentists perform a wide range of procedures to address oral health issues. These may include teeth cleanings, fillings, root canals, extractions, and implant placements.
Educating patients: Dentists also play a key role in educating patients on proper oral hygiene practices and how to prevent dental problems. This includes providing guidance on brushing and flossing techniques, diet and nutrition, and lifestyle factors that can impact oral health.

Types of Conditions Dentists Treat
Dentists are medical professionals who diagnose, prevent, and treat a variety of oral health conditions. Some of the most common conditions that dentists treat include:

Cavities: Cavities are caused by tooth decay and can cause pain, sensitivity, and tooth loss if left untreated. Dentists treat cavities by removing the decayed material and filling the tooth with a restorative material.
Gum disease: Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is caused by bacteria in plaque and can lead to tooth loss and other serious health problems. Dentists treat gum disease by deep cleaning the gums and teeth, prescribing antibiotics, and in severe cases, performing surgery.
Tooth sensitivity: Tooth sensitivity can be caused by a variety of factors, including exposed tooth roots, worn enamel, and cavities. Dentists treat tooth sensitivity by addressing the underlying cause and recommending appropriate treatments, such as desensitizing toothpaste or fluoride treatments.
Tooth loss: Tooth loss can occur due to injury, gum disease, or other factors. Dentists treat tooth loss by recommending appropriate tooth replacement options, such as dental implants, bridges, or dentures.
Oral cancer: Oral cancer can occur in the mouth, throat, or tongue, and can be life-threatening if not diagnosed and treated early. Dentists are often the first healthcare professionals to notice signs of oral cancer, and can perform an oral cancer screening during routine dental exams.

Types of Dentists
There are several types of dentists, each with their own area of focus and specialization. Some of the most common types of dentists include:

General Dentists: General dentists are primary care providers who diagnose, treat, and manage overall oral health. They provide a wide range of services, including routine checkups, cleanings, fillings, and extractions.
Orthodontists: Orthodontists specialize in correcting teeth and jaw alignment issues. They use braces, clear aligners, and other appliances to straighten teeth and improve bite function.
Periodontists: Periodontists focus on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of gum disease. They also perform procedures such as gum grafts and dental implants.
Endodontists: Endodontists specialize in treating the dental pulp and tissues inside teeth. They perform root canal therapy to save infected or damaged teeth.
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons: Oral and maxillofacial surgeons are dental specialists who perform surgeries on the mouth, jaw, and face. They may perform procedures such as wisdom teeth removal, jaw reconstruction, and treatment of facial injuries.
Prosthodontists: Prosthodontists specialize in the restoration and replacement of missing or damaged teeth. They design and fit dentures, bridges, and other prosthetic devices to improve dental function and appearance.
Pediatric Dentists: Pediatric dentists specialize in the dental care of children, from infancy through adolescence. They provide a range of services, including routine checkups, preventive care, and treatment of dental problems.

Are you suited to be a dentist?

Dentists have distinct personalities. They tend to be investigative individuals, which means they’re intellectual, introspective, and inquisitive. They are curious, methodical, rational, analytical, and logical. Some of them are also realistic, meaning they’re independent, stable, persistent, genuine, practical, and thrifty.

Does this sound like you? Take our free career test to find out if dentist is one of your top career matches.

Take the free test now Learn more about the career test

What is the workplace of a Dentist like?

Dentists typically work in private practices, either as solo practitioners or as part of a group practice with other dentists and dental specialists. The dental office is typically a comfortable and clean environment, with dental chairs, specialized equipment, and tools for diagnosing and treating oral health conditions. In addition to the clinical space, the office may also include a reception area, administrative offices, and a sterilization room where instruments and equipment are cleaned and disinfected.

The work of a dentist can be physically demanding, as they often spend long periods of time standing and using their hands and tools to perform delicate procedures. Dentists also work closely with patients, which requires good communication skills and a compassionate demeanor. They may need to explain complex procedures to patients in a way that is easy to understand, and provide reassurance and comfort to anxious patients.

In addition to working in private practices, dentists may also work in community health clinics, hospitals, and other healthcare settings. In these settings, they may work with a team of healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive care to patients with complex medical and dental needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Pros and Cons of Being a Dentist

Like any profession, there are both pros and cons to being a dentist. Here are some of the key advantages and disadvantages of pursuing a career in dentistry:

Pros:

Job security: Dentistry is a stable and growing field, and the demand for dental services is expected to continue to increase in the coming years.
High earning potential: Dentists earn a high income, with a median salary of over $150,000 per year in the United States.
Flexibility: Dentists can choose to work in a variety of settings, including private practice, hospitals, clinics, and research institutions, and can also choose to work full-time or part-time.
Opportunity to help people: Dentists have the ability to improve the oral health and overall well-being of their patients, which can be a rewarding experience.
Continual learning: Dentistry is a field that is constantly evolving, and dentists have the opportunity to learn new techniques and technologies to improve patient care.

Cons:

Cost of education: The cost of dental school can be high, and many dentists graduate with significant student loan debt.
Long hours: Dentists often work long hours, which can be challenging for those who value work-life balance.
Physical demands: Dentistry can be physically demanding, as dentists spend much of their day standing and bending over patients.
Risk of infection: Dentists are at risk of exposure to infectious diseases, and must take precautions to protect themselves and their patients.
Stressful situations: Dealing with patients who are in pain or have dental anxiety can be stressful, and dentists must have strong communication and interpersonal skills to manage these situations effectively.

Comprehensive List of Doctor Specializations and Degrees

Here is a comprehensive list of specializations that a doctor can pursue and a brief summary of each specialization:

Allergist: An allergist specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of allergies, asthma, and related conditions. Allergists have specialized training in the recognition and management of allergic reactions.
Anesthesiologist: An anesthesiologist keeps a patient comfortable, safe and pain-free during surgery by administering local or general anesthetic.
Cardiologist: A cardiologist specializes in finding, treating, and preventing diseases that affect the heart, the arteries, and the veins.
Cardiothoracic Surgeon: A cardiothoracic surgeon specializes in surgical procedures inside the thorax (the chest), which may involve the heart, lungs, esophagus, and other organs in the chest. As well as performing surgery, they also diagnose and treat diseases of these organs.
Chiropractic Neurologist: A chiropractic neurologist is a specialized type of chiropractor who has undergone additional training in the field of neurology. They diagnose and treat conditions that affect the brain, spinal cord, and other parts of the nervous system.
Chiropractor: A chiropractor, or doctor of chiropractic medicine, specializes in diagnosing and treating disorders of the musculoskeletal and nervous system, especially in the spine. Treatment is usually physical manipulation of the joints and the spine to bring them back into alignment. A chiropractor does not perform surgery or prescribe medication.
Colorectal Surgeon: A colorectal surgeon specializes in diseases of the colon, rectum, and anus, as well as the entire gastric tract. These surgeons work closely with urologists, who handle the urogenital tract in males and the urinary tract of women, gynecologists, who deal with specific female issues, and gastroenterologists, who deal with diseases of the gut.
Doctor: An general overview of what a doctor does and how to become one.
Dentist: Dentists identify potential oral health issues such as gum disease, as well as examine patients, order medical tests and determine the correct diagnosis and treatment. They also perform oral surgery and remove teeth or address other dental health problems.
Dermatologist: A dermatologist specializes in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of conditions affecting skin, hair, sweat and oil glands, nails, and mucus membranes (inside the mouth, nose, and eyelids) which can include cancer.
Emergency Medicine Physician: An emergency medicine physician works in emergency departments, hospitals, and urgent care clinics, and is often the first medical professional that patients see when they are in need of urgent medical care.
Endocrinologist: An endocrinologist specializes in diagnosing conditions and diseases related to the glands and hormones. While primary care doctors know a lot about the human body, for conditions and diseases directly related to glands and hormones they will typically send a patient to an endocrinologist.
Family Practitioner: A family practitioner specializes in caring for the entire family. Patients can be children, adults, and the elderly, and are treated for a wide array of medical issues.
Forensic Pathologist: A forensic pathologist investigates the cause of sudden and unexpected deaths, and is able to determine how a person died by performing an autopsy and studying tissue and laboratory results. These doctors are often called upon to provide evidence in court regarding the cause and time of such deaths.
Gastroenterologist: A gastroenterologist has specific training in diagnosing and treating conditions and diseases of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. This may include diseases and disorders that affect the the biliary system (liver, pancreas, gallbladder, and bile ducts), as well as the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, and large intestine (colon).
Geriatrician: A geriatrician specializes in the care of elderly patients, and often works with patients who have multiple chronic conditions, such as hypertension, diabetes, and heart disease, as well as age-related cognitive and functional impairments.
Gynecologist: A gynecologist specializes in women's reproductive systems. Gynecologists are also sometimes certified as obstetricians, and will monitor the health of the mother and the fetus during a pregnancy.
Hematologist: A doctor who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of blood disorders, such as anemia and leukemia.
Hospitalist: A hospitalist is a physician whose focus is the general medical care of hospitalized patients. Their duties include patient care, teaching, research, and leadership related to hospital medicine.
Immunologist: An immunologist specializes in managing problems related to the immune system, such as allergies and autoimmune diseases. A smaller number of immunologists are strictly researchers seeking to better understand how the immune system works and to help develop better ways of diagnosing and providing treatment for many immunological conditions.
Infectious Disease Specialist: A doctor who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of infectious diseases, such as HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and hepatitis.
Internist: An internist is a 'doctor of internal medicine' who can diagnose, treat, and practice compassionate care for adults across the spectrum, from health to complex illness. They are not to be mistaken with "interns," who are doctors in their first year of residency training.
Medical Examiner: Medical examiners are responsible for performing autopsies and collecting evidence related to the circumstances of a death, including medical history, physical examination findings, and toxicology tests.
Naturopathic Physician: A naturopathic physician blends modern scientific medical practice and knowledge with natural and traditional forms of medical treatment. The goal is to treat the underlying causes of disease while stimulating the body's own healing abilities.
Nephrologist: A doctor who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of kidney diseases. They treat conditions such as chronic kidney disease, acute kidney injury, kidney stones, hypertension, and electrolyte imbalances.
Neurologist: A neurologist specializes in treating diseases that affect the human nervous system. It is a very prestigious and difficult medical specialty due to the complexity of the nervous system, which consists of the brain, the spinal cord and the peripheral nerves.
Neurosurgeon: A neurosurgeon specializes in the diagnosis and surgical treatment of disorders of the central and peripheral nervous system. This includes congenital anomalies, trauma, tumours, vascular disorders, infections of the brain or spine, stroke, or degenerative diseases of the spine.
Obstetrician: An obstetrician is a medical doctor who specializes in caring for women during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period.
Occupational Physician: Occupational medicine is focused on keeping individuals well at work, both mentally and physically. As workplaces become more complex, occupational physicians play an important role in advising people on how their work can affect their health.
Oncologist: An oncologist specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer. The three primary types of oncologists are: medical oncologists that specialize in the administration of drugs to kill cancer cells; surgical oncologists that perform surgical procedures to identify and remove cancerous tumors; and radiation oncologists that treat cancer with radiation therapy.
Ophthalmologist: An ophthalmologist is a specialist that deals specifically with the structure, function, diseases, and treatment of the eye. Due to the complexities and the importance of the eye as a special sense that provides vision, the discipline of ophthalmology is dedicated solely to this organ.
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon: An oral and maxillofacial surgeon treats dental and medical problems involving the oral cavity and the maxillofacial area. The maxillofacial area includes the bones of the forehead, face, cheekbones and the soft tissues. Treatment often involves performing surgery and related procedures to treat diseases, defects, or injuries, and to improve function or appearance.
Orthopaedic Surgeon / Orthopedist: An orthopaedic surgeon (or orthopedist) examines, diagnoses, and treats diseases and injuries of the musculoskeletal system. This system includes the bones, joints, ligaments, muscles, tendons, and nerves.
Orthodontist: An orthodontist specializes in how the jaws and teeth are aligned. They help people whose teeth are misaligned or require some kind of correction – those with an improper bite, or malocclusion.
Osteopath: Osteopaths have attended and graduated from an osteopathic medical school and practise the system of healthcare known as osteopathy. They consider all aspects of the patient, not just the symptoms they exhibit. They see the integrated nature of the body’s organ systems and its capacity for self-regulation and self-healing.
Otolaryngologist: Otolaryngologists (or ENT physicians) are specialists trained in the diagnosis and treatment of patients with diseases and disorders of the ear, nose, throat (ENT), and related structures of the head and neck. These specialists are trained in both medicine and surgery.
Pathologist: A pathologist studies the causes, nature, and effects of disease. The field of pathology is broad with concentrations on changes in cells, tissues, and organs that are the result of a disease.
Pediatrician: A pediatrician specializes in providing medical care to infants, children and teenagers by administering treatments, therapies, medications and vaccinations to treat illness, disorders or injuries.
Periodontist: A periodontist is a dentist who specializes in oral inflammation, and who knows how to prevent, diagnose, and treat periodontal disease.
Plastic Surgeon: A plastic surgeon specializes in reshaping healthy body parts for aesthetic reasons, and also in repairing or replacing body parts damaged by accidents, illness or malformation.
Podiatrist: A podiatrist practices podiatric medicine, which is a branch of science devoted to the diagnosis, treatment and study of medical disorders of the foot, ankle, lower leg and lower back. In the U.S. and Canada, podiatry is practiced as a specialty.
Prosthodontist: A prosthodontist specializes in restoring the look, function, comfort, and health of a patient's oral cavity with artificial materials. These artificial materials are made up of a wide variety of restorations that include fillings, dentures, veneers, crowns, bridges and oral implants.
Psychiatrist: Psychiatrists are physicians who evaluate, diagnose and treat patients who are affected by a temporary or chronic mental health problem.
Pulmonologist: A pulmonologist specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of pulmonary (lung) conditions and diseases of the chest, particularly pneumonia, asthma, tuberculosis, emphysema, and complicated chest infections.
Radiologist: A radiologist is a specialist in interpreting medical images that may be obtained with x-rays, (CT scans or radiographs), nuclear medicine (involving radioactive substances, magnetism (MRI), or ultrasound.
Rheumatologist: A doctor who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of rheumatic diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus.
Sports Medicine Physician: A sports medicine physician specializes in taking care of people who have sports injuries that may be acquired from playing sports, exercising, or from otherwise being physically active.
Surgeon: A surgeon performs surgery for the purpose of removing diseased tissue or organs, to repair body systems, or to replace diseased organs with transplants.
Urologist: A urologist specializes in the treatment of the male and female urinary tract and the male reproductive organs. Urologists can treat the kidneys, urinary bladder, urethra, uterus, and male reproductive organs. There are also specific specialty areas that urologists may choose to focus on, such as pediatric urology, male infertility, and urologic oncology.
Vascular Medicine Specialist - A vascular medicine specialist specializes in the diagnosis and nonsurgical treatment of conditions affecting the blood vessels. They may work with patients who have conditions such as deep vein thrombosis, peripheral artery disease, or pulmonary embolism.
Vascular Surgeon - A vascular surgeon specializes in the diagnosis and surgical treatment of conditions affecting the blood vessels, including aneurysms, peripheral artery disease, and varicose veins.

Corresponding Degrees

See Also

Doctor Allergist Anesthesiologist Cardiologist Cardiothoracic Surgeon Chiropractor Colorectal Surgeon Dermatologist Emergency Medicine Physician Endocrinologist Family Practitioner Forensic Pathologist Gastroenterologist Geriatrician Gynecologist Hematologist Hospitalist Immunologist Infectious Disease Specialist Internist Medical Examiner Naturopathic Physician Nephrologist Neurologist Neurosurgeon Obstetrician Occupational Physician Oncologist Ophthalmologist Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon Orthopaedic Surgeon Orthopedist Orthodontist Osteopath Otolaryngologist Pathologist Pediatrician Periodontist Plastic Surgeon Podiatrist Prosthodontist Psychiatrist Pulmonologist Radiologist Rheumatologist Sports Medicine Physician Surgeon Urologist Vascular Medicine Specialist Vascular Surgeon Chiropractic Neurologist

Careers

Degrees

See Also

Orthodontist Periodontist Endodontist Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon Prosthodontist Pediatric Dentist Dental Hygienist Dental Assistant Dental Laboratory Technician

Dentists are also known as:
General Dentist Doctor of Dental Medicine Doctor of Dental Surgery Family Dentist Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry

What is a Dentist?