Dentistry - Scope and its Future.

What is Dentistry?

A branch of medicine that consists of the study, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of diseases and disorders of the oral cavity, oral mucosa, and related structures. Different structures associated with dentistry include facial area, Temporomandibular joint, craniofacial area, and other anatomical supporting structures.

Different operations of dentistry are carried out by Dentists and Dental Auxiliaries. Dental Auxiliaries includes Dental Assistants, Dental Technicians, etc

History: Dentistry is one of the oldest medical profession. Indus Valley has yielded evidence of dentistry being practiced as far back as 7000 BC. 

In ancient Greece, Hippocrates and Aristotle wrote about dentistry, specifically about teeth decay.

Oral diseases have been a problem for humans since the beginning of time. Skulls of Cro-magnon , who inhabited 25000 years ago, that also show evidence of tooth decay.

Later progress was carried by Pierre Fauchard, commonly known as the "Father of Modern Dentistry". He rejected the idea of a tooth worm. The idea of a tooth worm is an erroneous theory of the cause of dental caries, periodontitis, and toothaches. It was supposed that the disease was caused by small worms resident within the tooth, eating it away.

Branches of Dentistry ;

• Endodontics
• Orthodontics
• Prosthodontics
• Pediatric dentistry
• Periodontics
• Oral and maxillofacial surgery
• Oral pathology
• Oral medicine

• Minimal Intervention Dentistry

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Scope and Future of Dentistry : 

Dentistry is a very important area in the whole medical field. Dentists are often the first care professionals to identify a wide variety of diseases ranging from hypertension to oral cancer.

Dentistry is a very wide field. To work as a Dentist, one can earn a degree in the following dentistry courses listed below: 

BDS - Bachelor of Dental Surgery

MDS - Master of Dental Surgery

BDS can be pursued after the 12th standard passed with PCB as mainstream.

MDS is a three-year study after under graduation BDS Courses to specialize in a particular field related to Dentistry.

Being a Dentist is a quite challenging job. It requires a complete package of skills, hard work, dedication, and patience. 

Future of Dentistry:  Like any other medical field, the future of dentistry is also on the rising side. After a professional degree, one having an interest in this field can go with the establishment of their own private dental clinics.

There is also a huge demand for dentists in the field of Cosmetic Dentistry as well.

One having an interest in teaching can also pursue teaching as the profession in the field of dentistry, guiding and building the nation of dentistry.

Other options include Dental Surgeons, Medical health practitioners, Dental hygienist, Dental therapist, etc