Dentistry
Dentistry is an advanced branch of medical science for oral health. The
practice of dentistry mainly consists of the prevention, diagnosis and
treatment of diseases of the teeth; injuries and malformations of the teeth,
jaws and associated structures. Dentistry is recognized as both as an art and
science platform. This medical field combines knowledge, skills and elements
of aesthetics. It enhances the general health conditions by preventing,
diagnosing and treating the various diseases originated in the oral cavity.
Dentistry has a long standing tradition in history. With the increase of
awareness of the importance of dental healthcare, it has made remarkable
progress in recent years. Today, it has become one of the most demanded
professions. Focusing on the various oral health problems, the discipline of
dentistry has split into numerous specializations such as Endodontics,
Orthodontics, Periodontics, Operative Dentistry, Prosthodontics, Oral Surgery,
Oral Pathology and Dental Pubic Health.
To
become a qualified dentist, one has to acquire a degree in dental surgery and
practical experience. Bachelor of Dental Surgery is the formal degree required
to practice dentistry. Most of the dentists register as general dentists. They
are licensed to practice all specializations in dentistry. Some of them limit
their practices by choosing a dental specialization. Some of the allied
professions of dentistry are dental hygienists and dental assistants.
Dental Public Health
mainly focuses on the assessment of dental health needs of the public through
research and services. Orthodontics is the area of dentistry dealing with the
straightening and aligning teeth and jaws. While endodontics is the study and
treatment of problems associated with the tooth pulp and tissues surrounding
the root of a tooth, periodontics is another specialty focusing on the
diagnosis, treatment and prevention of gum diseases. The structural defects or
caries in individual tooth are dealt in Operative Dentistry. Prosthodontics is
an area of dental specialization for replacement or restoration of missing or
heavily damaged teeth. In addition to these specializations, there are two
other specializations called reconstructive dentistry and cosmetic dentistry.