Dentistry is the art and science of prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of conditions, diseases, and disorders of the
oral cavity, the maxillofacial region, and its associated structures as it relates to human beings. Dentists, with the aide of other dental auxiliaries, frequently .
X-rays and other equipment to ensure correct diagnosis and treatment planning. Treatment may include filling
dental cavities, removing the
nerves of
teeth during
root canal treatment, treating diseases of the
gingiva, removing teeth during
extractions, and replacing lost teeth with bridges,
dentures, and implants.
Anesthesia is often used in any treatment that might cause
pain. Teeth may be filled with
gold,
silver,
amalgam,
porcelain. diseases of the mouth treated in dentistry include
trench mouth and
periodontitis.
Prevention of disease is an important aspect to dentistry. Regular oral hygiene is recommended, and the most common instruments including toothbrushes and dental floss. Limiting the frequency of sugar consumption is usually stressed. The dental significance of fluorides was discovered in the 1930s. Since then water fluoridation and topical applications of fluoride have become a focus in the prevention of tooth decay.
