Knowing what do dentists treat is the first step to a healthy smile. While it might not be the most glamorous of jobs, dentists are essential to our well-being. If you’re not sure whether or not you have a dentist, let us explain why that’s a very good thing! From general checkups to orthodontics, dentists play an important role in our oral health and self-esteem. We know that not everyone has a dentist they trust, but if you don’t, here are five reasons why you should make time for dental checkup!
Who is this article for?
This article is for patients experiencing tooth pain, bleeding gums, missing teeth, sensitivity or other oral-health problems who are unsure whether to visit a general dentist or dental specialist.
What Dental Problems Do Dentists Treat?
Dentists diagnose, prevent and treat conditions affecting the teeth, gums, mouth and supporting structures. Common problems treated by dentists include tooth decay, dental cavities, gum disease, tooth sensitivity, cracked teeth, dental infections, bad breath, missing teeth and problems with existing fillings, crowns or dentures.
Dentists also examine changes involving the tongue, cheeks, lips and other oral tissues. A persistent ulcer, unexplained lump, red or white patch, unusual bleeding or difficulty opening the mouth may require further assessment or referral. The most common oral diseases include dental caries, periodontal disease, tooth loss and oral cancers. Many of these problems can be treated more easily when detected at an early stage.
What Treatments Can a General Dentist Provide?
A general dentist is often the first professional a patient consults for an oral-health concern. After reviewing the symptoms, medical history and clinical findings, the dentist may recommend dental X-rays or scans where necessary. Common treatments provided by general dentists include:
- Routine dental examinations
- Professional teeth cleaning
- Dental fillings
- Root canal treatment
- Dental crowns and bridges
- Management of early gum disease
- Tooth extraction
- Replacement of missing teeth
- Emergency dental care
- Preventive fluoride treatment
- Advice on brushing, flossing and diet
When Does a Dentist Refer You to a Specialist?
- A general dentist can manage many routine and moderately complex problems. However, referral to a dental specialist may be recommended when a condition requires advanced diagnosis, specialised treatment or surgery.
- An endodontist specialises in diagnosing tooth pain and treating problems involving the dental pulp, including complex root canal treatment.
- A periodontist specialises in preventing, diagnosing and treating gum disease and may perform deep cleaning, regenerative procedures, gum surgery and dental-implant treatment.
- A prosthodontist focuses on restoring and replacing damaged or missing teeth with crowns, bridges, dentures, implants and full-mouth rehabilitation.
- An orthodontist manages the alignment of teeth and jaws with braces, aligners and other orthodontic appliances.
- An oral and maxillofacial surgeon diagnoses and surgically treats conditions affecting the mouth, jaws and face. These may include impacted wisdom teeth, jaw deformities, facial injuries, oral pathology and certain complex implant procedures.
When Should You Visit a Dentist?
- Toothache or pain while chewing
- Sensitivity to cold, heat or sweets
- Bleeding or swollen gums
- Persistent bad breath
- A broken or loose tooth
- Facial or gum swelling
- A loose filling, crown or bridge
- Difficulty chewing or opening the mouth
- A mouth ulcer that does not heal
- Changes in the colour or surface of a tooth
- Missing teeth affecting chewing or appearance
Summary
The main goal of dental treatment is to improve the health and quality of oral health. Dental procedures are meant to protect future dental issues. Some of the most common conditions that dental professionals treat are: tooth decay, periodontal disease, oral cancer, and more.
Some dental professions specialize in treating specific types of conditions. Endodontist specialize in the treatment of teeth affected by the pulp. specialize in treating gum diseases. Oral surgeons specialize in tooth extractions and other gum diseases. Finally, general dentists are trained to treat a variety of conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most common problem treated by dentists?
Tooth decay and gum disease are among the most common problems treated by dentists. Dentists also manage tooth sensitivity, broken teeth, infections, missing teeth and damaged restorations.
Can a general dentist perform root canal treatment?
Yes. General dentists commonly perform routine root canal treatments. A complex case, previously treated tooth or difficult root anatomy may be referred to an endodontist.
Can a dentist treat bleeding gums?
Yes. A dentist can identify whether bleeding is caused by plaque-related gingivitis, periodontitis, brushing trauma or another condition. Treatment may include professional cleaning, scaling and root planing or referral to a periodontist.
Can a dentist detect oral cancer?
A dentist can identify suspicious oral changes during an examination and arrange further investigation or referral. A final diagnosis generally requires appropriate clinical assessment and, where indicated, a biopsy.
How do I know whether I need a dentist or specialist?
Start with a general dentist unless you have already been referred or know that you require specialised care. The dentist can diagnose the problem and refer you to the appropriate specialist when necessary.
Do dentists treat jaw pain?
Dentists can assess jaw pain related to the teeth, bite, jaw joints or dental infection. Persistent pain, restricted jaw movement, trauma or complex jaw conditions may require evaluation by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon or another appropriate specialist.
Should I visit a dentist even when nothing hurts?
Yes. Cavities, gum disease and other oral conditions may develop without early pain. Preventive dental examinations can identify problems before they become more extensive.
Medical Disclaimer
This article is for patient education only. Dental treatment should be planned after clinical examination, medical history review, and X-rays or scans where required. Treatment suitability, cost, timeline, healing, and results vary from patient to patient.
