Picture this: A healthcare professional using advanced technology and precise hands-on skills to restore a patient’s confident smile while ensuring their oral health remains optimal for years to come.
Think about the last time you visited a dentist – they weren’t just checking your teeth, but were acting as diagnosticians, surgeons, and preventive care specialists all at once. Dentists combine medical expertise with artistic skill to help patients maintain oral health while improving their quality of life.
These oral health physicians serve as primary care providers for oral health. They work to prevent, diagnose, and treat oral diseases while educating patients about maintaining proper oral hygiene.
Total employment: 141,000 (2023)
Common Names for Dentists, General
- Dental Surgery Doctor (DDS)
- Dentist
- Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD)
- Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS)
- Family Dentist
- General Dentist
- Pediatric Dentist
What Dentists, General Do
General dentists are responsible for diagnosing and treating a wide range of dental issues, ensuring patients maintain optimal oral health. Here are the core responsibilities for Dentists:
- Patient Examination and Diagnosis: Evaluate patient oral health through comprehensive examinations, x-rays, and medical history reviews to identify dental conditions and develop appropriate treatment plans.
- Preventive Care and Treatment: Perform routine dental procedures including cleanings, fillings, and extractions to maintain oral health and prevent future dental problems.
- Restorative Procedures: Repair damaged or decayed teeth using various dental materials and techniques to restore proper tooth function and appearance.
- Patient Education and Consultation: Provide guidance on oral hygiene practices, preventive care, and treatment options to help patients maintain optimal dental health and make informed decisions.
- Emergency Dental Care: Address acute dental problems such as severe pain, infections, or trauma to provide immediate relief and prevent complications.
- Treatment Planning: Develop comprehensive care strategies that consider patient needs, medical history, and financial considerations to deliver optimal oral health outcomes.
- Team Leadership: Direct dental staff including hygienists and assistants to ensure efficient patient care delivery and maintain practice standards.
- Records Management: Maintain accurate, detailed patient records and documentation to ensure continuity of care and meet legal requirements.
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