Dentistry
Dentistry, practice of preventing and treating diseases of the teeth , gums, and tissues of the mouth. Unlike other human tissue, such as skin, that continuously grows and self-rejuvenates, dental structures generally cannot repair themselves and require regular care to retain their health and vitality. If not treated, dental health problems can lead to complications in other parts of the body. Thorough and timely dental care is not only important for maintaining healthy teeth and gums, it is essential to overall human health. Dentists and dental hygienists are health care professionals trained and licensed to provide dental care. General dentistry emphasizes treatments that prevent oral health problems, especially dental caries, commonly called tooth decay. Tooth decay is one of the most prevalent diseases in the United States, second only to the common cold. Dentists help prevent tooth decay by cleaning teeth to remove buildup of calculus, or tartar, which forms when plaque, a sticky