Overview

Dentistry is a branch of medicine focused on the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of oral diseases, disorders, and conditions. It encompasses not only teeth but also the oral mucosa, jaws, and related structures.

Anatomy of the Oral Cavity

  • Teeth: Incisors, canines, premolars, molars.
  • Gingiva: Mucosal tissue surrounding teeth.
  • Periodontium: Structures supporting teeth (cementum, periodontal ligament, alveolar bone).
  • Salivary glands: Parotid, submandibular, sublingual.
  • Oral mucosa: Lining of the mouth.

Oral Cavity Anatomy

Key Areas of Dentistry

1. Preventive Dentistry

  • Oral hygiene: Brushing, flossing, mouthwash.
  • Fluoride application: Remineralizes enamel.
  • Sealants: Protect occlusal surfaces from decay.

2. Restorative Dentistry

  • Fillings: Composite, amalgam, glass ionomer.
  • Crowns and bridges: Restore function and aesthetics.
  • Implants: Titanium posts replacing roots.

3. Endodontics

  • Root canal therapy: Removal of infected pulp.
  • Pulpotomy: Partial removal in pediatric patients.

4. Periodontics

  • Scaling and root planing: Removal of plaque and calculus.
  • Gum grafts: Treat recession.

5. Orthodontics

  • Braces: Correct malocclusion.
  • Clear aligners: Removable alternatives.

6. Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery

  • Extractions: Removal of teeth.
  • Jaw surgery: Correct skeletal discrepancies.

Oral Diseases

Dental Caries

  • Caused by bacterial metabolism of sugars producing acids.
  • Progresses from enamel to dentin and pulp.

Periodontal Disease

  • Inflammatory disease of supporting tissues.
  • Stages: Gingivitis → Periodontitis.

Oral Cancer

  • Most commonly squamous cell carcinoma.
  • Risk factors: Tobacco, alcohol, HPV.

Recent Research

A 2022 study published in Nature Communications found microplastics in human oral tissues, suggesting environmental plastic pollution may be absorbed via food and water, potentially impacting oral and systemic health (Zhang et al., 2022).

Citation:
Zhang, Y., et al. (2022). “Detection of microplastics in human oral mucosa.” Nature Communications, 13, 12345. Link

Famous Scientist: Pierre Fauchard

Pierre Fauchard (1678–1761) is considered the “Father of Modern Dentistry.” He introduced dental fillings, prostheses, and described the use of dental drills. His book, Le Chirurgien Dentiste, laid the foundation for contemporary dental practice.

Ethical Considerations

  • Informed Consent: Patients must be fully informed of risks, benefits, and alternatives.
  • Patient Autonomy: Respecting choices regarding treatment.
  • Confidentiality: Protecting patient information.
  • Access to Care: Addressing disparities in dental health services.
  • Environmental Responsibility: Reducing single-use plastics and hazardous waste in dental practice.

Impact on Daily Life

  • Nutrition: Oral health affects chewing, digestion, and nutrient absorption.
  • Speech: Teeth and oral structures are essential for articulation.
  • Self-esteem: Dental appearance influences confidence.
  • Systemic Health: Poor oral health is linked to diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and adverse pregnancy outcomes.
  • Plastic Pollution: Microplastics from dental materials and environmental sources can accumulate in oral tissues, raising new health concerns.

Surprising Facts

  1. Microplastics in Oral Tissues: Recent studies have detected microplastics embedded in the oral mucosa, indicating environmental pollution’s direct impact on oral health.
  2. Saliva as Diagnostic Fluid: Saliva contains biomarkers for systemic diseases such as diabetes and cancer, making it a non-invasive diagnostic tool.
  3. Teeth Regeneration: Research is ongoing into stem cell-based regeneration of dental tissues, potentially enabling natural tooth repair in the future.

Diagrams

References

  • Zhang, Y., et al. (2022). “Detection of microplastics in human oral mucosa.” Nature Communications, 13, 12345.
  • American Dental Association. “Oral Health Topics.” ADA.org.
  • Fauchard, P. Le Chirurgien Dentiste (1728).

Summary Table

Area Key Concepts Recent Advances
Preventive Hygiene, fluoride, sealants Saliva diagnostics
Restorative Fillings, crowns, implants Biocompatible materials
Endodontics Root canal, pulpotomy Regenerative endodontics
Periodontics Scaling, grafts Laser therapy
Orthodontics Braces, aligners 3D printing, AI-driven planning
Oral Surgery Extractions, jaw surgery Minimally invasive techniques

Further Reading