Dentist Columbia Page 6

A dentist also known as a dental surgeon is a specialized medical professional who deals with the healthcare of peoples’ teeth and gums. A dental surgeon is involved in the prevention, detection and finally treatment of all diseases of the oral cavity. To become qualifies a dentist must complete four years of study at an accredited dental school, followed by a year of residency. Dentists are licensed for minor procedures such as professional teeth cleaning, orthodontics (Adding braces), filling cavities, root canal therapy and oral surgery as well as more complex procedures which require general anesthesia. Dentists are licensed to prescribe antibiotics, painkillers and local anesthetics to treat dental patients.