Dentistry is the medical specialty that is dedicated to the study of diseases of the gums and teeth, obtaining a diagnosis and treatment of diseases, conditions and disorders. This discipline is responsible for everything related to the stomatognathic apparatus, formed by the set of organs and tissues found in the oral cavity and in part of the skull, face and neck.
Although primarily associated with teeth among the general public, the field of dentistry or dental medicine is not limited to teeth, but includes other aspects of the craniofacial complex, including the temporomandibular and other supporting structures.
Dentistry is also often understood to assume the medical specialty of stomatology (the study of the mouth and its disorders and diseases), largely similar, which is why the two terms are used interchangeably in certain regions.
Dental treatments are carried out by a dental team, which often consists of a dentist and dental assistants (dental assistants, dental hygienists, dental technicians, as well as dental therapists). Most dentists work in private practices (primary care), dental hospitals, or secondary care institutions (prisons, military bases, etc.).
Dentistry generally encompasses practices related to the oral cavity. According to the World Health Organization, oral diseases are important public health problems due to their high incidence and prevalence throughout the world, and those most affected are affected more than other socioeconomic groups.
Most dental treatments are carried out to prevent or treat the two most common oral diseases, which are tooth decay (tooth decay) and periodontal disease (gum disease or pyorrhea). Common treatments include tooth restoration, tooth extraction or surgical removal, root incision and brushing, and endodontic root canal treatment.
The individual who is professionally dedicated to curing diseases of the teeth is popularly known as a dentist and also as a dentist, depending on where he is in the world.
It should be noted that to perform as such you must satisfactorily comply with the dentistry career and the practices associated with it.
