Dentist

A dentist is a primary care provider for oral health. They diagnose, treat, and manage overall oral health, including routine checkups, fillings, extractions, preventive care, and patient education.

• Perform dental exams, diagnose conditions, and develop treatment plans.
• Provide preventive care such as cleanings, sealants, and fluoride treatments.
• Restore teeth using fillings, crowns, bridges, and related procedures.
• Perform tooth extractions and root canal treatments when indicated.
• Refer patients to dental or medical specialists as needed for further care.

• Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD).
• Completion of a four-year undergraduate degree and four years of dental school.
• No formal residency required, although general practice residencies (GPR) are available.