Who is a dentist?
A dentist or a dental doctor is a specialized healthcare professional dedicated to the perseverance of your oral health. From routine check-ups to advanced treatments, they ensure your teeth and gums are in the best condition. Dentists address immediate dentistry-related concerns and contribute to overall well-being, as oral health is intricately linked to systemic health. With their expertise and personalized care, dentists play a crucial role in helping you maintain a healthy smile and lasting wellness.
What are the subspecialties of a Dentist?
Depending on the specializations of a dentist, they are classified into the following types;
Orthodontist: An orthodontist is a dental expert in diagnosing and treating teeth and jaw misalignments. Orthodontists utilize braces, aligners, and other specialized appliances to correct dental irregularities and achieve proper dental alignment and occlusion.
Periodontist: The dentist specializes in this field in the supporting structures of the teeth; periodontists diagnose and treat gum diseases, gingival recession, and other conditions affecting the gums and bone surrounding the teeth. They may perform surgical procedures to restore periodontal health.
Cosmetic Dentist: To improve the smile’s aesthetics, cosmetic dentists offer dental procedures like teeth whitening, veneers, dental bonding, and gum contouring. Their focus is on enhancing the visual appeal of teeth while maintaining functionality.
Reconstructive Dentist: A reconstructive dentist focuses on restoring broken, chipped, or cracked teeth. They are proficient in restoring oral functions, appearance, and comfort for patients with extensive dental issues. They handle cases requiring comprehensive treatment, often combining various procedures to achieve optimal results.
Pedodontist: Specializes in pediatric dentistry, catering to the oral health needs of children and adolescents. They offer treatments suitable for each age, educate young patients on proper oral hygiene, and address developmental concerns.
It is recommended to consult a dentist based on their specialities to treat your dental health concerns.
What are the services offered by a dentist?
A dentist offers many services related to dental care. These range from diagnosis, treatment, and preventive oral care to maintaining oral health.
Diagnosis
Based on the signs and symptoms you present, a teeth doctor establishes a proper diagnosis of the disease. The diagnostic approaches include;
Visual Examination: A dental doctor examines the teeth, gums, tongue, and mouth to identify signs of infection, dental decay, gum disease, and other issues.
Dental X-rays: Dental issues that are not visible through visual investigation are diagnosed with the help of an X-ray. It detects issues such as cavities, impacted teeth, and bone loss.
Digital Imaging: For more advanced diagnosis of complex issues, advanced technologies like intraoral cameras are used for detailed images. These ensure an accurate diagnosis.
Treatment
Dentists offer various treatments to address dental problems and restore oral health. You should see a dentist for various procedures, including;
Fillings: Teeth fillings are used to repair cavities caused by tooth decay. Fillings are made from materials like composite resin or amalgam.
Crowns: Dental crowns cover and protect damaged or weakened teeth and restore their strength and appearance.
Root Canal Surgery: A dental surgeon performs a root canal procedure for a severely decayed or infected tooth. It works by removing the infected pulp and sealing the root canal.
Extractions: Tooth extraction is performed when a tooth is too damaged, decayed, or crowded. It prevents the spread of dental cavities and caries to the nearby teeth.
Dental Implants: Implants are artificial tooth roots placed in the jaw to support prosthetic teeth, restoring both function and aesthetics.
In addition, other dental procedures performed by a dentist include scaling, polishing, treatment of gum diseases, etc.
Preventive Oral Health
Preventive health measures are important in maintaining good oral health and avoiding dental problems. Dentists offer several preventive measures, including:
Regular Cleanings: Professional cleanings (dental prophylaxis) remove plaque, tartar, and stains that cannot be effectively removed at home.
Fluoride Treatment: The application of fluoride helps strengthen tooth enamel and prevent tooth decay.
Dental Sealants: These protective coatings are applied to the chewing surfaces of molars to prevent cavities in vulnerable areas.
Maintenance of Oral Health
Dentists emphasize the importance of ongoing oral care to maintain optimal dental health. They guide on:
Oral Hygiene Education: Dentists teach patients proper brushing, flossing, and hygiene techniques. They also encourage to join various dental clubs to get education and awareness on the best dental practices.
Nutritional Guidance: Dental doctors advise how dietary choices impact oral health and recommend a balanced diet for strong teeth and gums. They also emphasize the importance of hydration and avoidance of sweetened
Customized Care Plans: Dentists create individualized plans for patients with specific needs, such as those with gum disease or a history of cavities.
How to become a dentist in Pakistan?
Becoming a dentist in Pakistan involves completing the educational and professional requirements. To become a dentist in Pakistan;
- Complete a four-year Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) from a recognized dental college or university. The BDS program typically lasts four years and covers various aspects of dental medicine, including theoretical knowledge and practical clinical training.
- Upon completing the BDS program, you must complete a one-year house job at a recognized dental institution. This internship provides you with real-world experience in diagnosing and treating patients under the supervision of experienced dentists.
- After completing your internship, you must register with the Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC) or its successor organization. This registration is necessary to practice dentistry legally in Pakistan.
FAQs
1. What is the salary of a dentist in Pakistan?
The salary of a dentist in Pakistan varies depending on the private or government job. The average salary of a highly experienced dentist ranges between 80,000-300,000 PKR per month.
2. What is dentistry used for?
Dentistry is essential for dealing with the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of dental issues. It is concerned with teeth, gums, mouth, and jaw diseases.