Dental Medicine

Dental medicine is a branch of medicine that deals with the maintenance of oral health. It is concerned with the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases affecting the teeth, gums, and other structures of the mouth. Dental medicine also includes orthodontics, which is the correction of improper bites, and the straightening of teeth. Dental medicine addresses the general maintenance of oral health, as well as specialized treatments. General maintenance includes regular brushing and flossing, and visits to the dentist for regular check-ups. Specialized treatments often involve the application of materials and procedures to treat dental diseases such as decay, periodontal disease, and malocclusion. Dentists use a variety of tools and materials to diagnose and treat diseases of the teeth and gums. These include X-rays, which allow dentists to detect underlying problems such as cavities or infections. Dental probes are also used to measure the depth of tissue loss, and to pinpoint the location of cavities. Special instruments such as dental mirrors and magnifying loupes help the dentist to examine hard-to-reach areas. The field of dental medicine also includes the use of prostheses and disarticulated specimens. Prostheses are artificial replacements for lost or damaged teeth, either through decay or physical injury. A disarticulated specimen is an anatomically correct but dead malformed tooth. Both of these treatments help to restore normal occlusion – the alignment of the upper and lower teeth when biting together. Dental medicine also requires an understanding of the different types of materials used to construct and repair teeth or other structures of the mouth. Composites, porcelain, and metals are commonly used to fill cavities or to construct crowns, bridges, and implants. Dentists must also know how to properly clean and care for the different types of materials used. In the end, dental medicine is a complex and ever-evolving field of medicine. Dentists must have a thorough knowledge of the diseases and ailments affecting the mouth, and must also have a good working knowledge of the tools, materials, and procedures used to treat oral health problems. The advancements in this field benefit society as a whole, by helping to ensure good oral health and an increased quality of life.