Faculty of Dental Surgery

Faculty of Dental Surgery is a specialized branch of medicine that focuses on the study, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of diseases, disorders, and conditions of the oral cavity, commonly in the dentition but also the oral mucosa, and of adjacent and related structures and tissues, particularly in the maxillofacial (jaw and facial) area. Although primarily associated with teeth among the general public, the field of dentistry or dental medicine is not limited to teeth but includes other aspects of the craniofacial complex including the temporomandibular joint and other supporting, muscular, lymphatic, nervous, vascular, and anatomical structures.

History

The history of dental surgery goes back thousands of years. With evidence of dental practices being found in ancient civilizations such as the Indus Valley Civilization, Ancient Egypt, and Ancient Greece. The first book on dental medicine, written in Latin, was published in 1530. Since then, the field has evolved significantly, incorporating advancements in technology and medical science to improve dental care and surgery techniques.

Education and Training

Becoming a dental surgeon requires extensive education and training. The pathway typically involves completing a bachelor's degree followed by a dental degree (DDS or DMD), which takes about four years. After obtaining a dental degree, those aspiring to specialize in dental surgery must undergo additional postgraduate training. This can include residencies and fellowships in specific areas of dental surgery, such as oral and maxillofacial surgery, periodontics, endodontics, prosthodontics, and pediatric dentistry.

Scope of Practice

The scope of practice for dental surgeons is broad, covering various procedures from basic dental care to complex surgeries. These include but are not limited to tooth extractions, dental implants, corrective jaw surgery, treatment of oral diseases, and cosmetic dentistry. Dental surgeons work closely with other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive care that addresses both oral and overall health.

Professional Bodies

Several professional bodies represent dental surgeons worldwide, ensuring high standards of practice, education, and ethics in the field. These include the American Dental Association (ADA), the British Dental Association (BDA), and the International Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (IAOMS). These organizations play a crucial role in the advancement of dental surgery through research, policy development, and continuing education programs.

Challenges and Future Directions

The field of dental surgery faces several challenges, including access to care, the high cost of dental education, and keeping pace with technological advancements. Future directions in dental surgery involve the integration of digital technologies like 3D printing and computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) in dental practices, as well as the development of new materials and techniques for better patient outcomes.

See Also

• Oral hygiene
• Dental implant
• Cosmetic dentistry
• Oral and maxillofacial surgery