Definition and History of Dentistry - Dentistry focuses on the teeth, gums, and mouth. - It involves the study, diagnosis, prevention, management, and treatment of oral diseases and conditions. - Dentistry dates back to ancient times, with evidence of its practice dating back to 7000 BC. - Dentistry is considered the first specialization in medicine. - Dentistry has its own accredited degree and specializations. - The world's first dental school was established in Ohio in 1828. - Dental schools were subsequently established in Baltimore, Philadelphia, and London. - Different dental schools may result in different clinical decisions for the same condition. - Dentists in the United Kingdom are regulated by the General Dental Council. - Dentists usually complete five to eight years of post-secondary education before practicing.

Dental Team and Treatment - Dental treatments are carried out by a dental team. - The team consists of a dentist and dental auxiliaries such as dental assistants, dental hygienists, and dental technicians. - Dentistry aims to prevent and treat dental caries (tooth decay) and periodontal disease (gum disease). - Common dental treatments include restoration of teeth, extraction, scaling and root planing, root canal treatment, and cosmetic dentistry. - Dentists can also prescribe medications for patient management.

Oral Health and Systemic Health - Oral diseases are major public health problems worldwide. - Oral infections and inflammations can affect overall health. - Conditions in the oral cavity may indicate systemic diseases such as osteoporosis, diabetes, celiac disease, or cancer. - Gum disease is associated with an increased risk of diabetes, heart disease, and preterm birth. - The concept of oral-systemic health highlights the connection between oral health and overall health.

Specialties - Cosmetic dentistry: Focuses on improving the appearance of the mouth, teeth, and smile. - Anesthesiology: Deals with the advanced use of general anaesthesia, sedation, and pain management for dental procedures. - Dental public health: Studies epidemiology and social health policies relevant to oral health. - Endodontics (endodontology): Involves root canal therapy and the study of diseases of the dental pulp and periapical tissues. - Forensic odontology: Involves the gathering and use of dental evidence in law, primarily for documentation and verification of identity. - Oral and maxillofacial pathology: Involves the study, diagnosis, and treatment of oral and maxillofacial related diseases. - Oral and maxillofacial radiology: Involves the study and radiologic interpretation of oral and maxillofacial diseases. - Oral and maxillofacial surgery (oral surgery): Includes extractions, implants, and surgery of the jaws, mouth, and face. - Oral biology: Focuses on research in dental and craniofacial biology. - Oral implantology: Involves the art and science of replacing extracted teeth with dental implants. - Prosthodontics (prosthetic dentistry): Involves dentures, bridges, and the restoration of implants. - Maxillofacial prosthetics: Specializes in rehabilitating patients with congenital facial and oral defects or defects from surgery or trauma. - Periodontology (periodontics): Focuses on the study and treatment of diseases of the periodontium and placement and maintenance of dental implants. - Special needs dentistry (special care dentistry): Provides dental care for those with developmental and acquired disabilities. - Sports dentistry: Deals with the prevention and treatment of dental injuries and oral diseases associated with sports and exercise. - Veterinary dentistry: Applies dentistry to the care of animals and is a specialty of veterinary medicine.

Terminology and Miscellaneous - Dentistry comes from the French and Latin words for tooth. - The scientific study of teeth is called odontology. - Dentists are also referred to as dentists. - The term dentistry is often used interchangeably with stomatology, the study of mouth disorders and diseases. - Stone age man used dentist drill. - Ancient dentistry involved curing tooth-related disorders with bow drills operated by skilled bead-crafters. - The oldest known dental filling, made of beeswax, was discovered in Slovenia. - Long term occupational noise exposure can cause hearing loss. - Evidence-based dentistry emphasizes high-quality scientific evidence in decision-making. - Dental students require competence-based clinical skills. - Accreditation of dental schools can enhance quality and professionalism.