Dentists perform dental procedures on people to help them maintain and restore good oral health, improve their appearance, and feel comfortable when smiling. They are leaders of a healthcare team that includes dental assistants, hygienists, and lab technicians. As with medical doctors, dentist undergo a lengthy path of study to become fully licensed and qualified to practice dentistry.
A quality dentist should be a team player who treats patients as individuals, listens to their needs and concerns and takes the time to answer their questions. They are knowledgeable and up to date on current dental research and practices. They also take part in community service to provide treatment and care for those who do not have access to healthcare.
As part of their education, dentists must complete an undergraduate degree in a field like biology, chemistry, or health science and meet certain undergraduate grade point average requirements to qualify for admission to dental school. Many students interested in becoming a dentist join pre-dental or pre-health professions clubs on their college campuses. These groups allow them to network with upper-class pre-dental students and learn about the application process for dental schools. In addition, these clubs can also provide opportunities to volunteer in a dental clinic or other healthcare environment and shadow practicing dentists.
The mouth is a small area to work in, and it’s essential that a dentist be detail oriented. Even the smallest misalignment of something in a patient’s mouth can cause problems. As a result, the best dentists are meticulous when performing any procedure and are careful not to harm the inside of a person’s mouth.
Besides offering routine treatments such as fillings and crowns, general dentists can identify and treat dental disorders that are related to other parts of the body, such as heart disease and diabetes. They can also offer nutritional advice and smoking cessation counseling. They may also treat sleep apnea with oral appliances.
General dentists are responsible for the administration and management of private dental practices, and they frequently supervise a variety of allied staff members and dental assistants. They evaluate their patients’ comprehensive medical histories and determine the best course of treatment for each individual. They should be able to diagnose and treat common dental conditions, including tooth decay, gum disease, bone loss, and oral cancer.
The best way to find a good dentist is through personal referrals from friends and family. However, you can also ask your doctor, pharmacist, or other health professionals for recommendations. Lastly, check online reviews from past and present patients. These can give you a good idea of how a dentist treats his patients and whether their office is clean and organized. When searching for a dentist, prioritize these important qualities: patient-centered care, comprehensive services, advanced technology, preventive focus, positive reviews, and convenient location and hours. By taking the time to consider these factors, you can ensure that your dentist will provide you with top-notch dental care. Good luck!