OVERVIEW

What Is Dentistry and Oral Health?

Dentistry and Oral Health is the branch of medicine covering the diagnosis and treatment of conditions affecting the teeth, gums, and jaw, from routine dental care to more complex procedures such as root canal treatment, periodontal therapy, dental implants, and corrective jaw surgery.

Care in this branch spans general and preventive dentistry as well as specialized treatment for conditions like tooth decay, gum disease, misaligned teeth, and missing or damaged teeth. Some procedures, such as implant placement or jaw surgery, are planned in stages and coordinated with imaging and follow-up visits.

Oral health is closely tied to overall health. Untreated gum disease, for example, has been linked to a higher risk of heart disease and can complicate the management of conditions like diabetes. Because of this, professional cleanings and regular check-ups play a preventive role that goes beyond the teeth and gums themselves, and are generally recommended every six months for most adults.

Diseases & Conditions

49 topics

Procedure

8 topics

Symptoms

2 topics