Difference between revisions of "Dentistry" - New World Encyclopedia

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:''This article is about the dental profession.  For tooth care, see [[oral hygiene]].
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{{Merge|odontology|date=December 2007}}
[[Image:Dental x-ray.jpg|right|frame|[[Radiographs]] ([[X-ray]]s) can reveal if a person has cavities, bone disease or other abnormalities]]
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{{Expert-verify|date=December 2007}}
'''Dentistry''' is the art and science of prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of conditions, diseases, and disorders of the [[oral cavity]], the maxillofacial region, and its associated structures as it relates to human beings. A dentist is a doctor qualified to treat diseases, malformations of, and injuries to [[teeth]], the oral cavity, maxillofacial region and its assoicated structures. In most countries,  several years of training in a [[university]] (usually 4-8) and some practical experience working with actual patients' [[dentition]] are required to become a qualified dentist. The patron saint of dentists is [[Saint Apollonia]], martyred in Alexandria by having all her teeth violently extracted.
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{{dablink|This article is about the dental profession.  For tooth care, see [[oral hygiene]] or [[dental surgery]].}}
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[[Image:Dental surgery aboard USS Eisenhower, January 1990.JPEG|thumb|right|A Dentist and Dental Assistant perform surgery on a patient.]]  
  
==Specialties==
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'''Dentistry''' is the "evaluation, diagnosis, prevention and/or treatment (nonsurgical, surgical or related procedures) of diseases, disorders and/or conditions of the oral cavity, maxillofacial area and/or the adjacent and associated structures and their impact on the human body".<ref>[http://www.ada.org/prof/ed/specialties/definitions.asp Dentistry Definitions], hosted on the American Dental Association website. Page accessed December 11, 2007. This definition was adopted by the association's House of Delegates in 1997.</ref> A [[dentist]] is a healthcare professional qualified to practice dentistry after graduating with a degree of either Doctor of Dental Surgery ([[Doctor of Dental Surgery|DDS]]), Doctor of Dental Medicine ([[Doctor of Dental Medicine|DMD]]), Bachelor of Dentistry ([[BDent]]), Bachelor of Dental Science ([[BDSc]]), or Bachelor of Dental Surgery/Chirurgiae ([[BDS]]) or ([[BChD]]) or equivalent. In most western countries, to become a qualified dentist one must usually complete at least 4 years of postgraduate study{{Fact|date=November 2007}}.  Generally, 2 years of clinical experience working with patients in an educational setting are required. {{Fact|date=November 2007}}.  
[[Image:Métiers-Dentiste, humour-années 20.JPG|frame|right|Visits to the dentist are often feared or dreaded.]]
 
  
There are nine dental specialties recognized by the [[American Dental Association]] and require 2-6 years of further formal university training after dental school.  The specialties are [[Dental Public Health]] (study of dental epidemiology and social health policies), [[Endodontics]] ([[root canal]] therapy), [[Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology]] (study, diagnosis, and often the treatment of oral and maxillofacial related diseases), [[Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology]] (study and radiologic interpretation of oral and maxillofacial diseases), [[Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery]] ([[extraction (dental)|extractions]] and facial surgery), [[Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopaedics]] (straightening of teeth), [[Pedodontics]] (pediatric dentistry; i.e. dentistry for children), [[Periodontics]] (treatment of gum disease), [[Prosthodontics]] (replacement of missing facial anatomy by prostheses such as dentures, bridges and implants).
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The [[Baltimore College of Dental Surgery]], the first dental school in the world, opened in Baltimore, Maryland in 1840 and created the [[Doctor of Dental Surgery]] (DDS) degree.<ref>[http://www.dental.umaryland.edu/aboutBCDS/ About Us], hosted on the University of Maryland Dental School website. Page accessed December 11, 2007.</ref><ref name="ADAhistory">[http://www.ada.org/public/resources/history/timeline_19cent.asp History of Dentistry in the 19th Century], hosted on the American Dental Association website. Page accessed December 11, 2007.</ref>  In 1867, [[Harvard School of Dental Medicine|Harvard Dental School]] became the first dental school affiliated with a university and named its degree, [[Doctor of Dental Medicine|Dentariae Medicinae Doctorae]] (DMD).<ref>[http://www.hsdm.harvard.edu/asp-html/about.html About the Harvard School of Dental Medicine], hosted on the Harvard School of Dental Medicine website. Page accessed December 11, 2007.</ref><ref name="ADAhistory">[http://www.ada.org/public/resources/history/timeline_19cent.asp History of Dentistry in the 19th Century], hosted on the American Dental Association website. Page accessed December 11, 2007.</ref>  In England, the 1878 British Dentists Act and 1879 Dentists Register limited the title of "dentist" and "dental surgeon" to qualified and registered practitioners.<ref name="125years">Gelbier, Stanley. [http://www.nature.com/bdj/journal/v199/n7/full/4812875a.html 125 Years of Developments in Dentistry]. British Dental Journal (2005); 199, 470-473. Page accessed December 11, 2007. The 1879 register is referred to as the "Dental Register".</ref><ref name="bdatimeline">[http://www.bda.org/museum/story.cfm?ContentID=530|The story of dentistry: Dental History Timeline], hosted on the British Dental Association website. Page accessed December 11, 2007.</ref> The practice of dentistry became fully regulated with the 1921 Dentists Act, which required the registration of anyone practicing dentistry.<ref>[http://www.rcsed.ac.uk/site/682/default.aspx History of Dental Surgery in Edinburgh], hosted on the The Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh website. Page accessed December 11, 2007.</ref> The British Dental Association, formed in 1880 with Sir John Tomes as president, played a major role in prosecuting illegally practicing dentists.<ref name="125years">Gelbier, Stanley. [http://www.nature.com/bdj/journal/v199/n7/full/4812875a.html 125 Years of Developments in Dentistry]. British Dental Journal (2005); 199, 470-473. Page accessed December 11, 2007.</ref>
  
Specialists in these fields are designated registrable (U.S. "Board Eligible") and warrant exclusive titles such as orthodontist, oral surgeon, pedodontist, periodontist, or prosthodontist upon satisfying certain local (U.S. "Board Certified") registry requirements.
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==General dentistry==
  
Two other post-graduate formal advanced education programs: [[General Practice Residency]] (advanced clinical and didactic training with intense hospital experience) and [[Advanced Education in General Dentistry]] (advanced training in clinical dentistry) recognized by the [http://www.ada.org ADA] do not lead to specialization.
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Dentists can (and often do) further their training in one or more speciality areas (such as surgery, endodontics, orthodontics, etc.) Hence, there can be a great deal of variation between the level of skill in different disciplines from dentist to dentist, however all dentists must achieve a certain degree of skill in various disciplines in order to graduate from dental school and earn licensure.  General practitioners, unlike specialists, have the luxury of choosing which services they will provide and which they will refer to specialists.  It is important to note that most general practitioners perform restorative, prosthetic, routine endodontic therapy, routine periodontal therapy, and simple exodontia, as well as performing examinations. Others are comfortable treating more complex cases, as well as placing implants and extracting third molars...among many other procedures frequently referred to specialists.  Contrary to popular belief, most dentists do not regularly clean teeth, and instead delegate this task to their support staff (e.g. dental hygienists).
  
Other dental education exists where no post-graduate formal university training is required: [[cosmetic dentistry]], [[dental implant]], [[Temporomandibular joint disorder|temporo-mandibular joint therapy]]. These usually require the attendance of one or more continuing education courses that typically last for one to several days. There are restrictions on allowing these dentists to call themselves specialists in these fields. The specialist titles are registrable titles and controlled by the local dental licensing bodies.
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==Specialities==
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[[Image:Teeth model front.jpg|thumb|right|Development of teeth sculpture is a major improvement among dentistry.]]
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In addition to general dentistry, there are 9 recognized dental specialties in the US, Canada, and Australia. To become a specialist requires one to train in a residency or advanced graduate training program. Once residency is completed, the doctor is granted a certificate of specialty training. Many specialty programs have optional or required advanced degrees such as (MD/MBBS specific to Maxillofacial Surgery), MS, or PhD.
  
[[Forensic odontology]] consists of the gathering and use of dental evidence in lawThis may be performed by any dentist with experience or training in this field. The function of the forensic dentist is primarily documentation and verification of identity.
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*[[Dental Public Health]] (study of dental epidemiology and social health policies),
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*[[Endodontics]] ([[root canal]] therapy and study of diseases of the dental pulp),
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*[[Oral pathology|Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology]] (study, diagnosis, and sometimes the treatment of oral and maxillofacial related diseases),
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*[[Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology]] (study and radiologic interpretation of oral and maxillofacial diseases),
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*[[Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery]] ([[extraction (dental)|extractions]], facial surgery and implants),
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*[[Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopaedics]] (straightening of teeth and modification of midface and mandibular growth),
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*[[Pediatric Dentistry]] (i.e. dentistry for children, formerly known as "pedodontics"),
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*[[Periodontics]] (treatment of the [[periodontium]], however most periodontists place implants),
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*[[Prosthodontics]] (dentures, bridges and the restoration of implantsSome prosthodontists further their training in "oral and maxillofacial prosthodontics—a discipline concerned with the replacement of missing facial structures—such as ears, eyes, nose, etc.)
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Specialists in these fields are designated registrable (U.S. "Board Eligible") and warrant exclusive titles such as orthodontist, oral and maxillofacial surgeon, endodontist, pediatric dentist, periodontist, or prosthodontist upon satisfying certain local (U.S. "Board Certified"), (Australia/NZ: "FRACDS"), or (Canada: "FRCD(C)") registry requirements.
  
[[Geriatric dentistry]] or gerodontics is the delivery of dental care to older adults involving the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of problems associated with normal aging and age-related diseases as part of an interdisciplinary team with other health care professionals.
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Two other post-graduate formal advanced education programs: [[General Practice Residency]] (advanced clinical and didactic training with intense hospital experience) and [[Advanced Education in General Dentistry]] (advanced training in clinical dentistry) recognized by the [http://www.ada.org ADA] do not lead to specialization.
  
[[Veterinary dentistry]], a specialty of [[veterinary medicine]], is the field of dentistry applied to the care of animals [http://www.avdc.org/][http://www.evdc.info/].
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Special category:
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[[Oral Biology]] -  Research in Dental and Craniofacial Biology
  
==History==
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Other dental education exists where no post-graduate formal university training is required: [[cosmetic dentistry]], [[dental implant]], [[Temporomandibular joint disorder|temporo-mandibular joint therapy]]. These usually require the attendance of one or more continuing education courses that typically last for one to several days. There are restrictions on allowing these [[dentists]] to call themselves specialists in these fields.  The specialist titles are registrable titles and controlled by the local dental licensing bodies.
[[Image:Johann Liss 002.jpg|thumb|''Farmer at the dentist'', [[Johann Liss]], c. 1616-17.]]
 
  
In [[2001]] archaeologists studying the remains of two men from [[Mehrgarh]], [[Pakistan]], made the discovery that the people of [[Indus Valley Civilization]], even from the early [[Harappa]]n periods (c. [[3300 B.C.E.]]), had knowledge of medicine and dentistry. The physical anthropologist that carried out the examinations, Professor Andrea Cucina from the University of Missouri-Columbia, made the discovery when he was cleaning the teeth from one of the men (see [[History of medicine]]). Later research in the same area found evidence of teeth having been drilled, dating back nine thousand years [http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/sci/tech/4882968.stm].
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[[Forensic odontology]] consists of the gathering and use of dental evidence in law. This may be performed by any [[dentist]] with experience or training in this field. The function of the forensic dentist is primarily documentation and verification of identity.
  
Some information contained in the [[Edwin Smith Papyrus]] dates as early as [[3000 B.C.E.]] and includes the treatment of several dental ailments ([http://www.arabworldbooks.com/articles8.htm] & [http://www.britannica.com/eb/article-9032043]). [[Hammurabi's Code]] contains some references to dental procedures and fees.[http://www.idakerala.org/dentistryhome.asp#a1b]  The [[Ebers papyrus]] also discusses similar treatments ([http://www.arabworldbooks.com/articles8c.htm]). Examining the remains of some [[History of ancient Egypt|ancient Egyptians]] and [[Greco-Roman]]s reveal early attempts at dental [[prosthetic]]s and [[surgery]] ([http://www.arabworldbooks.com/articles8c.htm]).
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[[Geriatric dentistry]] or geriodontics is the delivery of dental care to older adults involving the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of problems associated with normal ageing and age-related diseases as part of an interdisciplinary team with other health care professionals.
  
Historically, dental extractions have been used to treat a variety of illnesses.  During the middle ages and through the 19th century, dentistry was not a profession into itself, and often dental procedures were performed by barbers or general physicians. [[Barber]]s usually limited their practice to extracting teeth, which not only resulted in the alleviation of [[pain]], but often cured a variety of ailments linked with chronic tooth [[infection]]. Instruments used for dental extractions date back several centuries. In the 14th century, [[Guy de Chauliac]] invented the dental pelican (resembling a [[pelican]]'s beak) which was used through the late 18th century. The pelican was replaced by the [[Dental Key|dental key]] which, in turn, was replaced by modern forceps in the 20th century.
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[[Veterinary dentistry]], a speciality of [[veterinary medicine]], is the field of dentistry applied to the care of animals [http://www.avdc.org/][http://www.evdc.info/].
  
For more information on the ancient history of dentistry refer to the ''[http://www.idakerala.org/dentistryhome.asp Indian Dental Association's '''History of Dentistry'''].''
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==History==
 
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[[Image:Johann Liss 002.jpg|thumb|left|''Farmer at the dentist'', [[Johann Liss]], c. 1616-17.]]
==Dentistry throughout the world==
 
===Dentistry in Australia===
 
In [[Australia]], graduating dentists earn either a B.D.S. (Bachelor of Dental Surgery) or B.D.Sc (Bachelor of Dental Science) degree.
 
  
There are six (6) Dental schools in Australia run by universities;
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Evidence has been found of teeth having been drilled dating back 9,000 years. <ref> news.bbc.co.uk [http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/sci/tech/4882968.stm]</ref>
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The people of the [[Indus Valley Civilization]], even from the early [[Harappa]]n periods (c. [[3300 B.C.E.]]), had knowledge of medicine and dentistry. A physical anthropologist that examined exhumed bodies from that time period, Professor Andrea Cucina from the University of Missouri-Columbia, made the discovery when he was cleaning the teeth from one of the men.  Stone age people in India and Pakistan were using dental drills made of flint 9,000 years ago.  <ref>BBC News.  Last Updated: Thursday, 6 April 2006</ref><ref>Coppa, A. et al.  2006.  [http://www.nature.com/nature/journal/v440/n7085/pdf/440755a.pdf "Early Neolithic tradition of dentistry: Flint tips were surprisingly effective for drilling tooth enamel in a prehistoric population."] ''Nature''.  Volume 440.  6 April, 2006.</ref>
  
*[[University of Adelaide]]
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Some information contained in the [[Edwin Smith Papyrus]] dates as early as [[3000 B.C.E.]] and includes the treatment of several dental ailments. [http://www.arabworldbooks.com/articles8.htm][http://www.britannica.com/eb/article-9032043] [[Hammurabi's Code]] contains some references to dental procedures and fees[http://www.idakerala.org/dentistryhome.asp#a1b].  The [[Ebers papyrus]] also discusses similar treatments.[http://www.arabworldbooks.com/articles8c.htm] Examining the remains of some [[History of ancient Egypt|ancient Egyptians]] and [[Greco-Roman]]s reveal early attempts at dental [[prosthetic]]s and [[surgery]].[http://www.arabworldbooks.com/articles8c.htm]
*[[Griffith University]]
 
*[[University of Melbourne]]
 
*[[University of Sydney]]
 
*[[University of Queensland]]
 
*[[University of Western Australia]]
 
  
Two Dental courses offered in Australia will be discussed below.
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[[Image:Medieval dentistry.jpg|thumb|Medieval [[dentist]] extracting a tooth. London; c. 1360-75.]]
  
The BDSc taught at the University of Melbourne spans five years, pending an accumulation of both high school performance ([[Equivalent National Tertiary Entrance Rank]] (ENTER) score in Victoria or other national equivalent; International Bachelorette or any other International equivalent) and [[UMAT|Undergraduate Medicine and Health Sciences Admission Test (UMAT)]] scores. Clinical practice during the course begins during year one at the Royal Dental Hospital of Melbourne, adjacent to the main campus of the University (and also to the Royal Women's Hospital).  The first three years are mainly theoretically based in the wider aspect of health sciences including anatomy, biology, chemistry, microbiology, pathology, pharmacology and neuroscience.  Significant clinical experience is gained right up until the fifth and final year, which consists almost completely of clinical work. [http://coursesearch.unimelb.edu.au/coursedetail.aspx?cid=726&ctype=1&typeall=1&typepg=0&typeug=0&typesc=0&stype=Interest&sterm=28 BDSc at MU]
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Historically, dental extractions have been used to treat a variety of illnesses.  During the [[Middle Ages]] and through the [[19th century]], dentistry was not a profession into itself, and often dental procedures were performed by barbers or general [[physician]]s. [[Barber]]s usually limited their practice to extracting teeth, which not only resulted in the alleviation of [[Pain and nociception|pain]], but often cured a variety of ailments linked with chronic tooth [[infection]].  Instruments used for dental extractions date back several centuries. In the 14th century, [[Guy de Chauliac]] invented the dental pelican (resembling a [[pelican]]'s beak) which was used through the late 18th century.  The pelican was replaced by the [[dental key]] which, in turn, was replaced by modern forceps in the 20th century.{{Fact|date=February 2007}}
  
Also spanning five years, selection to the B.D.Sc offered by the University of Queensland (UQ) also combines high-school performance with UMAT scores. The first year is largely science based but includes some introduction to Dental practice. The next three years involves applied dental science (which involves theory and clinical practice). The final year consists almost wholly of external clinical experience, usually in regional placements around the state of [[Queensland]].
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The first book focused solely on dentistry was written by Artzney Buchlein in 1530, and the first dental textbook written in English was called "Operator for the Teeth" by Charles Allen in 1685.<ref name="bdatimeline">[http://www.bda.org/museum/story.cfm?ContentID=530|The story of dentistry: Dental History Timeline], hosted on the British Dental Association website. Page accessed December 11, 2007.</ref> It is said that the [[17th century]] French physician [[Pierre Fauchard]] started dentistry science as we know it today, hence he was named ''"the father of modern dentistry"''. Among many of his developments were, the extensive use of [[Prosthodontics|dental prosthesis]], introducing [[dental fillings]] as treatment for [[dental caries]] and stating that sugar derivate acids like [[tartaric acid]] were responsible for dental decay.
  
===Dentistry in Canada===
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==Dentistry throughout the world==
Canadian dentistry is overseen by the [[Canadian Dental Association]], while specialization is overseen by the [[Royal College of Dentists]]. Today, Canada has about 16,000 dentists. Canadian dentistry is not publicly run (see [[Medicare (Canada)]]); only children and the elderly can have free dental care. Other Canadians are mostly covered by workplace dental plans, but many have to pay out of pocket.
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{{Main article|Dentistry throughout the world}}
  
For most of the early colonial period dentistry was a rare and unusual practice in Canada. In severe situations, barbers or blacksmiths would pull a tooth, but for many years [[Canada]] lagged behind European advances. The first dentists in [[Canada]] were [[United Empire Loyalists]] who fled the [[American Revolution]].  The first recorded dentist in Canada was a Mr. Hume who advertised in a [[Halifax Regional Municipality, Nova Scotia|Halifax]] newspaper in [[1814]].
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==Organizations==
 
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{{Main article|List of dental organizations}}
During the first half of the 19th century, dentistry expanded rapidly. In [[1867]] the [[Ontario Dental Association]] was formed and in [[1868]] they founded Canada's first dental school in [[Toronto]], the [[Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario]]. The [[University of Toronto]] agreed to be affiliated with the dental school. As time passed, other Canadian universities also created dentistry programmes. However, the [[Faculty of Dentistry, U of T|University of Toronto]] still has the largest dental school in Canada that features the most post graduate research opportunities as well as certifications for all the dental specialties.  The [[Faculty of Dentistry, U of T|University of Toronto, Faculty of Dentistry]] is at the forefront of Canadian dental research as well as being the top ranked dental school in all of Canada as well as being among the best dental schools in the world. 
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==See also==
 
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{{portal}}
====Canadian dentistry schools====
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{{WVS}}
*[[Faculty of Dentistry, U of T|University of Toronto]] ([[1868]])
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[[Image:Tooth Section.svg|thumb|250px|[[Sagittal]] section of a tooth]]
*[[McGill University]] ([[1905]])
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*[[Biodontics]]
*[[Université de Montréal]] ([[1905]])
 
*[[Dalhousie University]] ([[1908]])
 
*[[University of Alberta]] ([[1923]])
 
*[[University of Manitoba]] ([[1958]])
 
*[[University of British Columbia]] ([[1964]])
 
*[[University of Western Ontario]] ([[1966]])
 
*[[University of Saskatchewan]] ([[1968]])
 
*[[Université Laval]] ([[1971]])
 
 
 
===Dentistry in Chile===
 
Universidad de Chile, Universidad de Valparaíso, Universidad de Concepción, Universidad de Talca, Universidad de Antofagasta, among others provides the profession in Chile.
 
 
 
===Dentistry in Hong Kong===
 
To become a dentist in Hong Kong, one must complete the 5-year B.D.S. course in The University of Hong Kong. Students learn basic health sciences, dental sciences under the Problem Based Learning policy. Besides, formal training and supervised practice are prescribed. It is accepted that only after 5 years of such training would the trainees achieve a superior level of professional competence.
 
 
 
Graduates can enter general practice or pursue a specialist M.D.S. degree after gaining one year of working experience.
 
 
 
===Dentistry in India===
 
Modern Indian dentists must earn the Bachelor of Dental Surgery degree (B.D.S.), which requires four years of study and one year of internship. This degree is overseen by the Dental Council of India. In most states, one has to appear for an entrance test conducted by the Directorate of Medical Education, whereas some autonomous universities conduct their own entrance tests.Post graduate courses (Master of Dental Surgery. MDS) are also available in different specialities.It requires 3 years of study after BDS.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
===Dentistry in Pakistan===
 
At present there are upwards of 20 dental schools (public & private) throughout Pakistan, according to the [http://www.pmdc.org.pk/ Pakistan Medical & Dental Council] the state regulatory body has upwards of 6200 registered dentists.  The four year training culminates in achieveing a ''Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS)'' degree, which also requires a one year compulsary interneship to be a registered dentist in Pakistan.
 
Margalla College Of Dentistry is an integral part of Margalla Insitute Of Health sciences, Rawalpindi pakistan. It offers 4 years BDS courses for Pakistani & all others students. The college has recently singned a MOU with QMUL London for launching a Master programme in Chemistry OF Dental Materials.
 
 
 
===Dentistry in Slovakia===
 
In [[Slovakia]], dentists complete 6 years of undergraduate study to earn a MUDr (lat. ''Medicinae Universae Doctor'') degree. Junior graduates work under a skilled doctor for at least 3 years to receive their license from [[The Slovak Chamber of Dentists]].
 
 
 
===Dentistry in the United Kingdom===
 
In the [[United Kingdom]], dentists complete 5 years of undergraduate study to earn a B.D.S. or BChD degree.  After graduating most dentists will enter a V.T. (vocational training) scheme, of either 1 or 2 years length, to receive their full [[National Health Service]] registration.  Dentists must register with the G.D.C. ([http://www.gdc-uk.org General Dental Council]), and meet their requirements as the governing body of the profession, before being allowed to practice.
 
 
 
===Dentistry in Malta===
 
The first course leading to a degree in Dental Surgery, at the University of Malta, commenced in 1933. The qualification was recognized by the Medical Council of the United Kingdom in 1936.
 
 
 
Dental Surgery was established as a separate Faculty in 1954, previous to which the course was under the direction of a Board of Studies within the Faculty of Medicine and Surgery.
 
 
 
The Faculty now caters for an undergraduate intake of 8 students annually. The course of studies is under constant review to conform with the Directives  and Recommendation of the Advisory Committee on the Training of Dental Practitioner of E.C..
 
 
 
The Faculty regularly invites overseas visiting lecturers and an overseas external examiner participates fully in the Final Examination. The degree granted by the University of Malta is recognised for temporary registration by the General Dental Council of United Kingdom. The Faculty provides facilities for M.Phil research programmes.
 
A B.Ch.D Degree is awarded at the completion of the 5 year course.
 
 
 
*MADS - Malta Association of Dental Students [http://www.madsonline.org MADS Official Website]
 
 
 
===Dentistry in the United States===
 
In the [[United States]], dentists earn either a D.D.S. ([[Doctor of Dental Surgery]]) or D.M.D.([[Doctor of Dental Medicine]]) degree.  There is no difference in the training for either degree. The degrees are equivalent, and recognized equally by all state boards of dentistry. There are 56 Accredited Dental schools in the United States requiring 4 years of post graduate study (except for one unique 3 year program at the University of the Pacific)[http://www.ada.org/prof/ed/programs/search_ddsdmd_us.asp].  Most applicants to dental school have attained at least a B.S. or B.A. degree, however, a small percentage are admitted after only fulfilling specific prerequisite courses.  So unlike many other countries, it can take more than 8 years to become a dentist.  ([[List of dental schools in the United States]]) The degrees D.D.S. and D.M.D. require equivalent education and are identical in every way.  The difference relates to the history involved in the division of medicine and surgery in medical practice.  There has been a recent movement to include a 5th year of education that focuses on purely practical training in the clinical setting.  In at least one state, a state dental license can be received without taking the licensing exam (State Board Exam) upon completing this additional year of training.
 
Dentists are licensed and regulated by the state in which they practice.  The license is only valid in the issuing state and is non-transferable.  There are many cooperative agreements between states that allow recognition of another state's license so as to procure a license either via "licensure by credentials" or "licensure by reciprocity."
 
 
 
A dentist may go on for further training in a dental specialty which require an additional 1 to 7 years of post-doctoral training. There are 9 recognized dental specialties.  They are Endodontics(root canal treatment), Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology, Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology, Pediatric Dentistry, Periodontics(gums), Prosthodontics(complicated dental reconstruction), Orthodontics(braces), Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery(tooth removal and surgery of the oral and related structures), and Dental Public Health.  There is no specialty in esthetic dentistry or implantology, and no additional training is required for a dentist to make the claim of being an esthetic or cosmetic dentist. Dentists are forbidden to claim that they are specialists in areas of practice in which there is no recognized specialty. They may limit their practices to a single area of dentistry, and claim that their practice is limited to that area.
 
 
 
Any general dentist may perform those procedures designated within the enumerated specialties if they deem themselves competent.  Many general dentists train in certain aspects of the above specialties such as the placement and restoration of dental implants, advanced prosthodontics and endodontics, and have limited or heavily focused their practices to these areas.  When a general dentist performs any procedure that falls within the realm of a specialty, they are expected to perform with the same level of expertise as a certified specialist and are legally held to such standards with respect to any issues of malpractice.
 
 
 
===Dentistry in Italy===
 
In [[Italy]] dentists complete 5 years of undergraduate study to earn a degree. Nevertheless it is possible to agree on certain [[basic clinical competences]] common to all member states of the [[European Union]].
 
 
 
The following is an example of one such clinical competency ([[excision of a buried tooth root]]): If a clinician is deemed to be clinically competent in the surgical removal of a buried root, this implies much more than the technical and surgical ability required to excise a buried piece of [[root]] from [[alveolus]]. It embraces a broad range of preclinical and [[clinical knowledge]] and understanding on which [[surgical treatment]] is based.
 
====Italian dentistry schools====
 
*[[University of Bologna]]([[1088]])
 
 
 
==Related dental topics==
 
[[Image:ToothSection.jpg|thumb|250px|Cross section of a tooth]]
 
*[[:Category:Dentistry]]
 
 
*[[Bruxism]]
 
*[[Bruxism]]
 
*[[Calculus (dental)|Calculus]]  
 
*[[Calculus (dental)|Calculus]]  
 
*[[Ceramic]]s
 
*[[Ceramic]]s
 
*[[Crown (dentistry)|Crown]]
 
*[[Crown (dentistry)|Crown]]
*[[Dental fillings|dental amalgam]]
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*[[Dental fillings|Dental amalgam]]
 
*[[Dental brace]]
 
*[[Dental brace]]
 
*[[Dental cavities]]
 
*[[Dental cavities]]
 +
*[[Dental notation]]
 +
*[[Dental spa]]
 
*[[Extraction (dental)|Dental extraction]]
 
*[[Extraction (dental)|Dental extraction]]
*[[Dentine]]
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*[[Dentin]]
 
*[[Dental restoration]]
 
*[[Dental restoration]]
*[[Floss]]
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*[[Dental visit]]
 +
*[[Dental floss|Floss]]
 
*[[Fluoridation]]
 
*[[Fluoridation]]
 +
*[[Fluoride therapy]]
 
*[[Gingivitis]]
 
*[[Gingivitis]]
 
*[[Halitosis]]  
 
*[[Halitosis]]  
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*[[Laboratory technology]]
 
*[[Laboratory technology]]
 
*[[Mouthwash]]  
 
*[[Mouthwash]]  
 +
*[[Nitrous oxide]]
 
*[[Novocain]], a [[Local anesthetic]]
 
*[[Novocain]], a [[Local anesthetic]]
*[[Occlusion]]
+
*[[Occlusion (dentistry)|Occlusion]]
 +
*[[Oral hygiene]]
 +
*[[Orthodontics]]
 
*[[Saint Apollonia|Patron Saint of dentistry (Saint Apollonia)]]
 
*[[Saint Apollonia|Patron Saint of dentistry (Saint Apollonia)]]
 
*[[Periodontitis]]
 
*[[Periodontitis]]
 
*[[Dental plaque|Plaque]]  
 
*[[Dental plaque|Plaque]]  
 
*[[Plaque remover]]   
 
*[[Plaque remover]]   
*[[Stem cell#regenerative dentistry|Regenerative dentistry]]
+
*[[Stem cell treatments#Missing teeth|Regenerative dentistry]]
 
*[[Teledentistry]]
 
*[[Teledentistry]]
 
*[[Temporomandibular joint disease]]
 
*[[Temporomandibular joint disease]]
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*[[Toothbrush]]
 
*[[Toothbrush]]
 
*[[Toothpaste]]  
 
*[[Toothpaste]]  
*[[Waterpik]]
+
*[[Oral Irrigators]]
 
*[[Xerostomia]]
 
*[[Xerostomia]]
 +
*[[Dental phobia]]
  
==Organizations==
+
==References==
===United States===
+
<!-- ----------------------------------------------------------
* American Dental Education Association [http://www.adea.org]
+
  See http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Footnotes for a
* [[American Dental Association]]
+
  discussion of different citation methods and how to generate
* American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry [http://www.aacd.com/]
+
  footnotes using the <ref>, </ref> and  <reference /> tags
* Academy of General Dentistry [http://www.agd.org/]
+
----------------------------------------------------------- —>
* [[American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons]]
+
{{reflist}}
* [[American Association of Orthodontists]]
+
{{Citations missing|date=February 2007}}
* American College of Prosthodonists [http://www.prosthodontics.org/]
 
 
 
===United Kingdom===
 
* [[British Dental Association]]
 
* British Dental Health Foundation [http://www.dentalhealth.org.uk/]
 
* The British Society of Paediatric Dentistry [http://www.bspd.co.uk/]
 
 
 
===Canada===
 
* [[Canadian Dental Association]]
 
* [[Royal College of Dentists]]
 
 
 
===Miscellaneous===
 
* Malta Association of Dental Students [http://www.madsonline.org]
 
* American Veterinary Dental College [http://www.avdc.org/]
 
* European Veterinary Dental College [http://www.evdc.info/]
 
  
 +
==Further reading==
 
==External links==
 
==External links==
{{Commons2|Dentistry}}
+
*[http://www.ada.org/public/resources/history/timeline_20cent.asp History of Dentistry in the 20th Century by the ADA]
*[http://www.doctorspiller.com/ Ask Dr Spiller - Dental technical information for the public]
+
*[http://www.cbc.ca/story/world/national/2006/04/05/teeth-060405.html Ancient dentistry discovered]
*[http://www.allexperts.com/getExpert.asp?Category=966 AllExperts.com] Ask the dental experts
+
*[http://www.dentistry.co.uk/ Dentistry.co.uk - Issues affecting dental professionals in the UK]
*[http://www.dentalfearcentral.org/ Dental Phobia Self-Help]
+
*[http://www.usatoday.com/community/chat/2001-07-02-wissot.htm Dental Issues Q&A Forum on USA Today's "Talk Today"]
*[http://www.dentalcom.net/ Dental Discussion Forum]
+
*[http://www.dradental.com Ask Dr.A - patient resource journal]
*[http://www.dental-insurance-plan-info.com/html/dental-plans.html/ Dental Insurance Alternatives]
+
*[http://www.DMDstudent.com Dental Student Site]
*[http://www.101dentist.com Dentistry News and Resources]
+
*[http://www.stomatologija.info/2/lekovi Drugs in dentistry]
*[http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos072.htm Dentists] from the [[Bureau of Labor Statistics]]'s [http://www.bls.gov/oco/home.htm Occupational Outlook Handbook]  
 
*[http://www.jprosthodont.com Journal of Indian Prosthodontic Society]
 
*[http://www.jisppd.com Journal of Indian Society of Pedodontics and Preventive Dentistry]
 
 
 
 
{{dentistry}}
 
{{dentistry}}
 
+
{{Cleft lip and palate}}
{{credit|51743570}}
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{{Allied health professions}}
  
  
 +
{{dentistry}}
  
*[[Category:Life sciences]]
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[[Category:Life sciences]]
 +
{{credit|Dentistry177315909}}

Revision as of 23:38, 11 December 2007


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A Dentist and Dental Assistant perform surgery on a patient.

Dentistry is the "evaluation, diagnosis, prevention and/or treatment (nonsurgical, surgical or related procedures) of diseases, disorders and/or conditions of the oral cavity, maxillofacial area and/or the adjacent and associated structures and their impact on the human body".[1] A dentist is a healthcare professional qualified to practice dentistry after graduating with a degree of either Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS), Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD), Bachelor of Dentistry (BDent), Bachelor of Dental Science (BDSc), or Bachelor of Dental Surgery/Chirurgiae (BDS) or (BChD) or equivalent. In most western countries, to become a qualified dentist one must usually complete at least 4 years of postgraduate study[citation needed]. Generally, 2 years of clinical experience working with patients in an educational setting are required. [citation needed].

The Baltimore College of Dental Surgery, the first dental school in the world, opened in Baltimore, Maryland in 1840 and created the Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree.[2][3] In 1867, Harvard Dental School became the first dental school affiliated with a university and named its degree, Dentariae Medicinae Doctorae (DMD).[4][3] In England, the 1878 British Dentists Act and 1879 Dentists Register limited the title of "dentist" and "dental surgeon" to qualified and registered practitioners.[5][6] The practice of dentistry became fully regulated with the 1921 Dentists Act, which required the registration of anyone practicing dentistry.[7] The British Dental Association, formed in 1880 with Sir John Tomes as president, played a major role in prosecuting illegally practicing dentists.[5]

General dentistry

Dentists can (and often do) further their training in one or more speciality areas (such as surgery, endodontics, orthodontics, etc.) Hence, there can be a great deal of variation between the level of skill in different disciplines from dentist to dentist, however all dentists must achieve a certain degree of skill in various disciplines in order to graduate from dental school and earn licensure. General practitioners, unlike specialists, have the luxury of choosing which services they will provide and which they will refer to specialists. It is important to note that most general practitioners perform restorative, prosthetic, routine endodontic therapy, routine periodontal therapy, and simple exodontia, as well as performing examinations. Others are comfortable treating more complex cases, as well as placing implants and extracting third molars...among many other procedures frequently referred to specialists. Contrary to popular belief, most dentists do not regularly clean teeth, and instead delegate this task to their support staff (e.g. dental hygienists).

Specialities

Development of teeth sculpture is a major improvement among dentistry.

In addition to general dentistry, there are 9 recognized dental specialties in the US, Canada, and Australia. To become a specialist requires one to train in a residency or advanced graduate training program. Once residency is completed, the doctor is granted a certificate of specialty training. Many specialty programs have optional or required advanced degrees such as (MD/MBBS specific to Maxillofacial Surgery), MS, or PhD.

  • Dental Public Health (study of dental epidemiology and social health policies),
  • Endodontics (root canal therapy and study of diseases of the dental pulp),
  • Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology (study, diagnosis, and sometimes the treatment of oral and maxillofacial related diseases),
  • Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology (study and radiologic interpretation of oral and maxillofacial diseases),
  • Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (extractions, facial surgery and implants),
  • Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopaedics (straightening of teeth and modification of midface and mandibular growth),
  • Pediatric Dentistry (i.e. dentistry for children, formerly known as "pedodontics"),
  • Periodontics (treatment of the periodontium, however most periodontists place implants),
  • Prosthodontics (dentures, bridges and the restoration of implants. Some prosthodontists further their training in "oral and maxillofacial prosthodontics—a discipline concerned with the replacement of missing facial structures—such as ears, eyes, nose, etc.)

Specialists in these fields are designated registrable (U.S. "Board Eligible") and warrant exclusive titles such as orthodontist, oral and maxillofacial surgeon, endodontist, pediatric dentist, periodontist, or prosthodontist upon satisfying certain local (U.S. "Board Certified"), (Australia/NZ: "FRACDS"), or (Canada: "FRCD(C)") registry requirements.

Two other post-graduate formal advanced education programs: General Practice Residency (advanced clinical and didactic training with intense hospital experience) and Advanced Education in General Dentistry (advanced training in clinical dentistry) recognized by the ADA do not lead to specialization.

Special category: Oral Biology - Research in Dental and Craniofacial Biology

Other dental education exists where no post-graduate formal university training is required: cosmetic dentistry, dental implant, temporo-mandibular joint therapy. These usually require the attendance of one or more continuing education courses that typically last for one to several days. There are restrictions on allowing these dentists to call themselves specialists in these fields. The specialist titles are registrable titles and controlled by the local dental licensing bodies.

Forensic odontology consists of the gathering and use of dental evidence in law. This may be performed by any dentist with experience or training in this field. The function of the forensic dentist is primarily documentation and verification of identity.

Geriatric dentistry or geriodontics is the delivery of dental care to older adults involving the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of problems associated with normal ageing and age-related diseases as part of an interdisciplinary team with other health care professionals.

Veterinary dentistry, a speciality of veterinary medicine, is the field of dentistry applied to the care of animals [2][3].

History

Farmer at the dentist, Johann Liss, c. 1616-17.

Evidence has been found of teeth having been drilled dating back 9,000 years. [8] The people of the Indus Valley Civilization, even from the early Harappan periods (c. 3300 B.C.E.), had knowledge of medicine and dentistry. A physical anthropologist that examined exhumed bodies from that time period, Professor Andrea Cucina from the University of Missouri-Columbia, made the discovery when he was cleaning the teeth from one of the men. Stone age people in India and Pakistan were using dental drills made of flint 9,000 years ago. [9][10]

Some information contained in the Edwin Smith Papyrus dates as early as 3000 B.C.E. and includes the treatment of several dental ailments. [4][5] Hammurabi's Code contains some references to dental procedures and fees[6]. The Ebers papyrus also discusses similar treatments.[7] Examining the remains of some ancient Egyptians and Greco-Romans reveal early attempts at dental prosthetics and surgery.[8]

Medieval dentist extracting a tooth. London; c. 1360-75.

Historically, dental extractions have been used to treat a variety of illnesses. During the Middle Ages and through the 19th century, dentistry was not a profession into itself, and often dental procedures were performed by barbers or general physicians. Barbers usually limited their practice to extracting teeth, which not only resulted in the alleviation of pain, but often cured a variety of ailments linked with chronic tooth infection. Instruments used for dental extractions date back several centuries. In the 14th century, Guy de Chauliac invented the dental pelican (resembling a pelican's beak) which was used through the late 18th century. The pelican was replaced by the dental key which, in turn, was replaced by modern forceps in the 20th century.[citation needed]

The first book focused solely on dentistry was written by Artzney Buchlein in 1530, and the first dental textbook written in English was called "Operator for the Teeth" by Charles Allen in 1685.[6] It is said that the 17th century French physician Pierre Fauchard started dentistry science as we know it today, hence he was named "the father of modern dentistry". Among many of his developments were, the extensive use of dental prosthesis, introducing dental fillings as treatment for dental caries and stating that sugar derivate acids like tartaric acid were responsible for dental decay.

Dentistry throughout the world

Organizations

See also

Portal Dentistry Portal

Template:WVS

File:Tooth Section.svg
Sagittal section of a tooth
  • Biodontics
  • Bruxism
  • Calculus
  • Ceramics
  • Crown
  • Dental amalgam
  • Dental brace
  • Dental cavities
  • Dental notation
  • Dental spa
  • Dental extraction
  • Dentin
  • Dental restoration
  • Dental visit
  • Floss
  • Fluoridation
  • Fluoride therapy
  • Gingivitis
  • Halitosis
  • Dental implants
  • Laboratory technology
  • Mouthwash
  • Nitrous oxide
  • Novocain, a Local anesthetic
  • Occlusion
  • Oral hygiene
  • Orthodontics
  • Patron Saint of dentistry (Saint Apollonia)
  • Periodontitis
  • Plaque
  • Plaque remover
  • Regenerative dentistry
  • Teledentistry
  • Temporomandibular joint disease
  • Tooth
  • Toothbrush
  • Toothpaste
  • Oral Irrigators
  • Xerostomia
  • Dental phobia

References
ISBN links support NWE through referral fees

  1. Dentistry Definitions, hosted on the American Dental Association website. Page accessed December 11, 2007. This definition was adopted by the association's House of Delegates in 1997.
  2. About Us, hosted on the University of Maryland Dental School website. Page accessed December 11, 2007.
  3. 3.0 3.1 History of Dentistry in the 19th Century, hosted on the American Dental Association website. Page accessed December 11, 2007.
  4. About the Harvard School of Dental Medicine, hosted on the Harvard School of Dental Medicine website. Page accessed December 11, 2007.
  5. 5.0 5.1 Gelbier, Stanley. 125 Years of Developments in Dentistry. British Dental Journal (2005); 199, 470-473. Page accessed December 11, 2007. The 1879 register is referred to as the "Dental Register". Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; name "125years" defined multiple times with different content
  6. 6.0 6.1 story of dentistry: Dental History Timeline, hosted on the British Dental Association website. Page accessed December 11, 2007.
  7. History of Dental Surgery in Edinburgh, hosted on the The Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh website. Page accessed December 11, 2007.
  8. news.bbc.co.uk [1]
  9. BBC News. Last Updated: Thursday, 6 April 2006
  10. Coppa, A. et al. 2006. "Early Neolithic tradition of dentistry: Flint tips were surprisingly effective for drilling tooth enamel in a prehistoric population." Nature. Volume 440. 6 April, 2006.

Further reading

External links


Dentistry
Recognized Specialties

Endodontics - Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology - Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology - Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery - Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics - Pediatric Dentistry - Periodontics - Prosthodontics - Dental public health

Unrecognized Specialties

Cosmetic Dentistry - Dental Implantology - Temporomandibular Joint Disorder - Geriatric dentistry

Other

Forensic Odontology

Template:Cleft lip and palate Template:Allied health professions



Dentistry
Recognized Specialties

Endodontics - Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology - Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology - Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery - Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics - Pediatric Dentistry - Periodontics - Prosthodontics - Dental public health

Unrecognized Specialties

Cosmetic Dentistry - Dental Implantology - Temporomandibular Joint Disorder - Geriatric dentistry

Other

Forensic Odontology

Credits

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