History of Dentistry
- Barbers were the first to perform dentistry in China and France
- Guild of Barbers and lay barbers were two distinct groups
- Ambroise Paré raised the status of barber surgeons
- Publications devoted to dentistry were published in Germany and France
- France made decrees prohibiting lay barbers from practicing surgery
- Pierre Fauchard is considered the father of modern dentistry
- Trained dentists immigrated from Europe to the Americas
- The first dental school and national dental organization were established in the 1840s
- The first dental practice act was established to regulate dentistry
- The American Dental Association was established in 1859
Responsibilities of Dentists
- Dentists can carry out various dental treatments and procedures
- They can also prescribe medications for oral health conditions
- DDS and DMD degree holders can perform more complex procedures
- Dentists can diagnose and treat oral diseases linked to general health
- Conditions in the oral cavity can indicate other systemic diseases
Regulations for Dentists
- Dentists are required to register with national or local health boards
- They must also have professional indemnity insurance
- Regulations vary by country
- In the UK, dentists must register with the General Dental Council
- Registration ensures dentists meet professional standards and guidelines
Burnout and Intervention for Dentists
- Dentists and dental students are at high risk of burnout
- Burnout can lead to exhaustion and decreased efficiency
- Risk factors for burnout include age, personality type, and working conditions
- Intervention programs at an early stage can help cope with burnout
- Coping strategies can be taught during undergraduate education
Dental Specialties
- Dental Anesthesiology
- Dental public health
- Endodontics
- Oral and maxillofacial pathology
- Oral and maxillofacial radiology
- Oral and maxillofacial surgery
- Orthodontics
- Restorative Dentistry
- Special Care (Needs) Dentistry
- Dental hygienist
- Dental technician
- Dental therapist
- Dental assistant
- Occupational hazards in dentistry
The examples and perspective in this article may not represent a worldwide view of the subject. (November 2011) |
A dentist, also known as a dental surgeon, is a health care professional who specializes in dentistry, the branch of medicine focused on the teeth, gums, and mouth. The dentist's supporting team aids in providing oral health services. The dental team includes dental assistants, dental hygienists, dental technicians, and sometimes dental therapists.
 A dentist (seated) treating a patient with the help of an assistant (standing). | |
| Description | |
|---|---|
| Competencies | Biomedical knowledge, surgical dexterity, critical thinking, analytical skills, professionalism, management skills, and communication |
Education required |
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