Dentistry

Dentistry is a branch of medicine that deals with the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases and conditions that affect the teeth, gums, and other mouth structures. Dentists are health professionals who specialise in the dental care of patients. This includes preventive measures such as regular cleaning of teeth and treatment of dental problems such as cavities, gum disease and tooth decay.

Dentistry also includes cosmetic treatments such as teeth whitening, veneers and orthodontics to improve the appearance of the teeth and smile. In addition to treating dental problems, dentists may work with other health professionals to address issues that may impact oral health, such as sleep apnea or facial pain.

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Most common diseases

Tooth decay: This is a common dental problem, caused by plaque build-up on the teeth, which can lead to cavities and other dental problems.
Gum disease: This condition, also known as periodontitis, is caused by the deposition of plaque and bacteria on the gums, which can lead to inflammation, bleeding and tooth loss.
Sensitive teeth: This condition is characterised by pain or discomfort when eating or drinking hot or cold foods or drinks. It is often caused by thinning enamel or exposed tooth roots.
Bad breath: Bad breath, also known as halitosis, can be caused by a variety of factors, such as poor oral hygiene, gum disease or certain illnesses.
Oral cancer: Oral cancer can affect the lips, tongue, gums and other structures in the mouth and is often associated with smoking and heavy alcohol consumption.

Treatments

Dental cleaning: Regular dental cleanings are essential to maintain good oral health. During a dental cleaning, a dental hygienist removes plaque and tartar from the teeth and gums and also polishes the teeth if necessary.
Fillings: When a tooth is damaged by decay, a filling can be used to restore the function and appearance of the tooth. The decayed part of the tooth is removed and the filling material is used to fill the cavity created.
Crowns: A crown is a tooth-shaped cap that is placed over a damaged or decayed tooth to restore its strength and appearance. Crowns can be made from a variety of materials, including porcelain, metal and ceramic.
Root canals: When the dental pulp inside a tooth is infected or inflamed, a root canal may be necessary to remove the damaged tissue and save the tooth. During a root canal, the dentist removes the tooth pulp, cleans the root canals and fills them with a special material.
Extractions: Sometimes it is necessary to extract a tooth if it is badly damaged or infected. In this case, the dentist extracts the tooth and may recommend a replacement, such as a dental implant or a bridge.
Orthodontic treatment: Orthodontic treatment is used to correct malpositioned teeth or jaws. This may include braces, clear aligners and other types of appliances.
Teeth whitening: Teeth whitening is a cosmetic treatment that can help lighten discoloured teeth. This treatment can be carried out in a dental surgery or at home using a kit provided by the dentist.