Dentistry is the branch of medicine that deals with the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of diseases, disorders and conditions of the oral cavity, jaws and teeth. It is a field of medicine that has been practiced since ancient times. The first recorded dentist was Hesy-Ra, an Egyptian who lived in around 2650 BCE.Hesy-Ra’s title, ‘The Greatest of Those Who Deal With Their Teeth’, indicates that dentistry was already a well-established profession by this time.
The term ‘dentistry’ comes from the Latin word for tooth, ‘dens’. Dentists are healthcare professionals who are trained to diagnose, treat and prevent problems with patients’ teeth, gums and other parts of the mouth. They work in both private practices and public hospitals.
Dental care is important for maintaining good oral health, which is essential for overall health and wellbeing. Poor oral health can lead to pain, infection and tooth loss. It can also cause problems with eating, speaking and appearance.
Good dental care starts at home with regular brushing and flossing. It is also important to eat a healthy diet and avoid sugary drinks or snacks. Regular visits to the dentist are also important in order to detect any problems early on.
There are many different types of dentists including general practitioners (GPs), specialists (such as orthodontists or periodontists) or surgeons (such as maxillofacial surgeons). GPs usually provide routine dental care such as check-ups, cleaning and fillings while specialists may be required for more complex procedures such as braces or root canals. Surgeons generally carry out more invasive procedures such as extractions or surgery on the jawbone.
Dentistry is not just about keeping teeth healthy – it also involves cosmetology (the study of beauty). This includes procedures such as teeth whitening or veneers (thin pieces of porcelain that are glued to the front surface of teeth). Dentists may also provide advice on how to maintain good oral hygiene habits or how to choose the right type of toothbrush or toothpaste