Dentists are Doctors of Oral Medicine

Too many people mistakenly believe that they need to see a dentist only if they are in pain or think something is wrong, but they are missing the bigger picture. A dental visit means being examined by a doctor of oral health, capable of diagnosing and treating conditions that can range from routine to extremely complex.

The team approach to dentistry promotes continuity of care that is comprehensive, convenient, cost effective and efficient. Members of the team include dental assistants, lab technicians and dental hygienists. Leading the team is the dentist, a doctor specializing in oral health who has earned either a Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree or a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree, which are essentially the same.

Dentists’ areas of care include not only their patients’ teeth and gums but also the muscles of the head, neck and jaw, the tongue, salivary glands, the nervous system of the head and neck and other areas. During a comprehensive exam, dentists examine the teeth and gums, but they also look for lumps, swellings, discoloratioins, ulcerations – any abnormality. When appropriate, they perform procedures such as biopsies, diagnostic tests for chronic or infectious diseases, salivary gland function, and screening tests for oral cancer.

In adition, dentists can spot early warning signs in the mouth that may indicate disease elsewhere in the body. Our dentists are trained to recognize situations that warrant referring patients for care by dental specialists or physicians.

The team of oral health care at Bearable Dentistry provides comprehensive care to patients in all stages of development. Dentists, hygienists, dental assistants and our experienced office staff work together as a team to provide our patients with complete care. From that first phone call, the Bearable Dentistry staff will get you the care you need. Your comfort is our first concern.