Oregon Careers in Healthcare

A general dentist also known as a dental surgeon is a physician who specializes in general dentistry. A general dentist is responsible for the proper diagnosis of oral health problems that includes diagnosis, prevention of possible oral diseases, and the necessary treatment. The dentist’s supporting staff includes other professionals in the field of general dentistry. They are typically composed of licensed dental assistants, dental technicians, dental hygienists, and at certain times, dental therapists. They are all experts in each line of general dentistry.  Dr. Hao from Grange Dental Care practice suggests that dentists attend seminar regularly to stay updated with dentistry advancements.

Brief History of General Dentistry

Dentistry seems like a modern medical practice since it usually involves procedures that require modern medical equipment. However, general dentistry started during the middle ages. It may sound somewhat unbelievable, but in the early days, the first practitioners of general dentistry are barbers. People in China and France were among the first countries that established the practice. There are 2 general categories of the barbers who practice dentistry the first type is categorized as a guild of barbers and the other is categorized as lay barbers.

2 Types of Barbers that Practiced Dentistry

• Guild of Barbers – The guild of barbers is formed to separate people that are more capable of performing tasks and procedures in general dentistry. They are trained to perform complex surgery and treatment.
• Lay Barbers – Lay Barbers are also educated in the field of general dentistry. However, their tasks are limited to regular oral hygienic services up to simple tooth extraction, and basic surgery.

In the 1400s a decree made by France suggested prohibiting lay barbers to practice all types of general dentistry. Germany followed France’s example. A former French barber surgeon Ambroise Paré considered to be the Father of Surgery, published his own work based on his research and experience about the appropriate methods in oral care. General dentistry was based on his life’s work.

By the 1700s, modern dentistry started to establish itself as a defined profession. A decade after in the year 1723, a French surgeon by the name of Pierre Fauchard published the scientific book called The Surgeon Dentist, a Treatise on the Teeth.

The book was very influential amongst the experts in the field of general dentistry, and Pierre Fauchard earned the title of Father of Modern Dentistry. The book outlined a comprehensive method of proper oral hygiene, and teeth care. The book also introduced other ideas like prosthesis and dental fillings. The early work evolved to what we have today in our modern dentistry.

 

What Are The Responsibilities of a General Dentist?

A dentist is a doctor who specializes in oral health. Their primary responsibilities are:

• Oral disease diagnosis
• Oral health maintenance
• Oral disease prevention and treatment
• Safe administration of anesthetics
• Tooth extraction and surgery

Other dental specialties focus on different kinds of treatments and care. A general dentist has the option to undergo additional training to enhance their skills in different fields. Regulations differ depending on which country the dentist chooses to practice. Registration in their local or national health board is required. They also have to complete the training and pass all assessments before they inherit the title “specialist”. This is an effective method to ensure that only qualified practitioners are registered.

Is Cosmetic Dentistry a Specialty in General Dentistry?

Many dentists worldwide promote themselves as a cosmetic dentist. However, The American Dental Association does not acknowledge cosmetic dentistry as a recognized form of specialization. A dentist regardless of training, experience, or specialty can call themselves a cosmetic dentist. By definition, cosmetic dentistry is a term used in general dentistry work that focus on the appearance of the teeth, gums and to improve the bite.

 

Brief History of Cosmetic Dentistry

An American Dentist Newell Sill Jenkins (1840-1919) is regarded as the founder of aesthetic dentistry. He developed and improved the Jenkins porcelain enamel. He promoted the idea of the use of porcelain materials in aesthetic dentistry.

 

The AACD

The AACD also is known as the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry is the largest organization in the world whose primary focus is cosmetic dentistry. The purpose of creating the AACD is to improve knowledge in cosmetic dentistry for that wish to enhance their capabilities in aesthetic dentistry.

 

The ABCD

The ABCD also is known as the American Board of Cosmetic Dentistry was created to evaluate the accreditation in cosmetic dentistry study. However, the American Dental Association did not acknowledge the certification they offer.

 

The ASDA

The American Society for Dental Aesthetics was formed to educate dental professionals with the latest techniques in dental restoration and maintenance.

 

Types of Cosmetic Dentistry

Cosmetic dentistry primarily focuses on the aesthetic aspect of general dentistry. Although the procedures involved in cosmetic dentistry are more on the improvement of the appearance instead of functionality, they still have beneficial effects, especially in restoration. Most procedures in cosmetic dentistry are quite simple, but some procedures involve complex tasks. Here are the types of cosmetic dentistry:

• Teeth Whitening – Teeth Whitening, sometimes called tooth bleaching is one of the most common and simple procedures in cosmetic surgery. It can be done at the dentist’s office and is fairly inexpensive. Your dentist will first examine your teeth to analyze if whitening is needed for you. Teeth whitening is an effective way to restore the quality of your smile. Stains from coffee, smoking, acidic food, and other external or internal factors affect our teeth’ discoloration in many ways. Teeth whitening is the fastest and safest procedure that can be done.
• Inlays and Onlays (Fillings) – The purpose of Inlays and Onlays are to fill a partially decayed tooth to save it from extraction. The materials are typically made from porcelain; however, other materials are also safe to use such as gold, or composite resin. It is also perfect for the restoration of a chipped tooth.
• Veneers (Dental) – Dental veneers are paper-thin medical-grade ceramic laminates that are directly cemented to the surface of the teeth. Appearance-wise, they are perfect since they look natural. Veneers are also used as a solution to close gaps between the teeth and improve color, as well as crooked tooth restoration.
• Alignment or Straightening – A method knows as Invisalign treatment as a perfect alternative to the use of the traditional metal braces. Clear aligners are used in place of the metal wires. Clear alignment treatment is an effective method in treating overlapping teeth, spacing problems, and overcrowding of teeth.
• Dental Implants – Dental implants are a medically safe procedure that involves tooth replacement after tooth loss. It’s one of the most effective prosthetic replacement procedures for missing teeth. A titanium screw is inserted into the bone of the missing tooth. Once fully healed, the replacement has a secure fit.
• Dental Reshaping – Dental reshaping is a procedure that involves the removal of parts of the enamel in our teeth. This is an effective method in improving the appearance of a chipped tooth or crooked teeth. It is also considered as an alternative to braces. However, dental reshaping may trigger sensitive teeth.

 

General Dentistry and Cosmetic Dentistry

General dentistry procedures are designed for the treatment of oral health problems. The procedures involved are usually recommended by dentists to treat or prevent tooth decay, gum infections, or complications from both. On the other hand, the procedures involved in cosmetic dentistry are elective. Meaning, the patients usually decide whether to have the procedure or not. In most cases, people who prefer to have cosmetic dentistry treatments do not require immediate health attention. Their main reason is mostly the improvement of their smiles.

 

However, cosmetic dentistry also has beneficial value. For example, correcting the alignment of teeth reclaims the bite, and having implants improve chewing. Whether you prefer to undergo cosmetic dentistry for aesthetic purposes or beneficial purposes, your general dentist will be able to get the job done.