Dentists Working by Country

This chart shows Dentists Working by Country.

A dentist, also known  as a dental surgeon, is a surgeon who specializes in dentistry—the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of diseases and conditions of the oral cavity. The dentist's supporting team aids in providing oral health services. The dental team includes dental assistants, dental hygienists, dental technicians, and in some states, dental therapists.

By nature of their general training, a licensed dentist can carry out most dental treatments such as Professional teeth cleaning, restorative, orthodontics, prosthodontic, endodontic therapy, periodontal therapy, and oral surgery , as well as performing examinations, taking radiographs and diagnosis.

Additionally, dentists can further engage in oral surgery procedures such as dental implant placement. Dentists can also prescribe medications such as antibiotics, fluorides, pain killers, local anesthetics, sedatives/hypnotics and any other medication that serve in the treatment of the various conditions that arise in the head and neck.

Dentists need to take additional qualifications or training to carry out more complex procedures such as General anesthesia, oral and maxillofacial surgery, and implants. While many oral diseases are unique and self-limiting, poor conditions in the oral cavity can lead to poor general health and vice versa. Conditions in the oral cavity may be indicative of systemic diseases such as osteoporosis, diabetes, AIDS, different blood diseases etc.

In the 20th century new dental techniques and technology were invented such as: the porcelain crowns , Novocain 1905, precision cast fillings , nylon toothbrushes , water fluoridation , fluoride toothpaste , air driven dental tools , lasers , electric toothbrushes , and home tooth bleaching kits were invented. Inventions such as the air driven dental tools ushered in a new high speed dentistry.