What is a dentist?

A dentist is someone who has completed the necessary education (usually four years of college and four years of dental school) and passed the required boards to be licensed to practice dentistry. A dentist is trained to treat diseases of the teeth and gums.

Dentists are healthcare providers who specialize in mouth and dental health problems. Dentists can diagnose and treat dental problems, such as cavities and tooth loss, and perform cosmetic procedures, such as teeth whitening. Dentists may further specialize in areas such as:

• Gum disease (periodontist).
• Straightening of the teeth (orthodontist).
• Nerves of the teeth (endodontist).
• Surgery on the mouth and gums (oral surgeon).
• Tooth restoration (prosthodontist).

In addition, dentists may specialize in treating specific age groups, such as pediatric dentists, who only treat children. Dentists earn a college degree and then attend four years of dental school. Dentists must pass a national examination and be licensed by the state in which they practice.

A dentist is a doctor who specializes in the oral cavity to diagnose and treat diseases of the teeth and gums. A dentist has received a DDS or DMD degree from an accredited dental school that is four years after college and passed the required boards for the state that they practice in.