The Role of Dentists in Healthcare

Introduction

The moment we encounter the word ‘dentist’ or ‘dentistry’, we get down to the concluding point that dentistry deals with oral health exclusively. But, do you know that it doesn’t work that way and the role of dentists extends and penetrates into general healthcare?

Yes, data states that there is always a correlation between oral health and general health, and as proof, a survey states that around 78% of people with dental ailments are said to have cardiovascular diseases.

So, now we, Mansarovar Dental College find it our duty to let you people know about dental and healthcare connections for a better healthier life.

What is the connection between oral health and general health?

As per science, the mouth is the first opening or the entry point to any sort of substance into the body and so it is highly essential to maintain its hygiene to control almost 65% of health issues.

Let us take a look at some of the prominent connections between oral and general health.

Connected Risk Factor :

Many risk factors for oral diseases, such as poor oral hygiene, unhealthy diet, tobacco use, and excessive alcohol consumption, are also risk factors for systemic diseases. Addressing these risk factors through proper oral hygiene and lifestyle modifications can benefit both oral and overall health.

Systemic Diseases :

Several systemic diseases, such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, respiratory infections, and pregnancy complications, have been linked to poor oral health. For example, gum disease has been associated with an increased risk of heart disease and stroke. It is also said that children with oral cavity issues are prone to high blood pressure in adulthood. Take a look at the graph.

Inflammation and infection :

Oral health conditions, particularly gum disease, can contribute to inflammation throughout the body. Chronic inflammation is associated with various systemic conditions, including arthritis, diabetes, and certain cancers. Additionally, oral infections can spread to other parts of the body if left untreated, leading to serious health complications.These are very few connections that we highlight here to make your understand the connection between oral health and general health which helps you to know the importance of dental health .

Now, it is time to explore the role of dentists in healthcare.

Also Read : Why Dental Care Knowledge is Important for Health?

What role does dentists play in healthcare?

The role of dentists in healthcare is unspoken and so we reveal it here.

Preventive Care :

Preventive care is one of the significant roles of dentists in primary healthcare where dentists educate patients about oral hygiene practices and provide preventive treatments such as cleanings, fluoride treatments, and sealants to help prevent tooth decay and gum disease.

This step of dentists that focuses on oral disease prevention is an indirect notion to arrest access to multiple other general health diseases that seek way via the mouth.

Diagnosis :

Dentists diagnose oral health issues through examinations, X-rays, and other diagnostic tools. They identify conditions like cavities, gum disease, oral cancer, and malocclusion.

This diagnosis part as a role of dentists also has a major play in healthcare as the proper diagnosis is the earliest possible way to treat any oral condition in the earlier stage to avoid future interventions into overall health.

Early Detection of Systemic Diseases :

During routine dental examinations, dentists may detect signs and symptoms of systemic diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, HIV/AIDS, and certain types of cancer. Oral manifestations of these diseases, like lesions, changes in gum tissue, or dry mouth, can be indicative of underlying health issues. Dentists can refer patients to appropriate healthcare providers for further evaluation and management which is a great role of dentists in general healthcare.

Collaborative support to healthcare professionals :

Dentists often collaborate with other healthcare professionals, including physicians, pharmacists, and specialists, to provide comprehensive care for patients with complex medical conditions. They communicate findings, share diagnostic information, and coordinate treatment plans to address both oral health needs and general health concerns.

Community Health Play :

Dentists contribute to public health initiatives by participating in community outreach programs, conducting screenings, and advocating for policies that promote oral health and access to dental care for underserved populations which is considered a noble role of a dentist in the community .

On the whole, it is vividly visible that dentistry is part of overall healthcare and joins hands with general health for the well being of the patients and it also highlights the dental cleaning importance for overall health.

Now, do you wanna make your career in dentistry? If yes, then it is time for you to know the kind of dental courses that we offer at Mansarovar Dental College.

Range of dental courses at Mansarovar Dental College

We at Mansarovar Dental College offer both undergraduate and postgraduate dental courses . At our college, students are trained to be dentists with proper education on the importance of ethics in dentistry .

Here are the course details.

Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) :

Master of Dental Surgery (MDS) :

Also Read : Opportunities for Diversity That the MDS Program Offers

Conclusion :

Getting to the end point, the role of dentists in healthcare is profound, and thus making a career in dentistry is a way to contribute to the healthcare industry as well. If you wish to be part of changing lives via health, then you can go for a dental career.

FAQs

1. What is most important in a dentist?

The most important aspect of a dentist is the ability to make relevant diagnoses with patience and empathy toward patients.

2. What is the best quality of dentistry?

The best quality of a dentist is considered to be compassion towards patients.

3. How do I become a skilled dentist?

Pursue a BDS degree and indulge in practice at top dental care establishments to become a skilled dentist.

Is dentistry a hard job?

No, dentistry is not a hard job with proper dental education.