Are dentists doctors?

Why do dentists ask about medical conditions?

Dr. Meyer is able to help prevent future damage to teeth and overall health by helping patients treat the early signs of oral conditions like severe decay that can lead to infection and abscesses that can become life threatening, and chronic conditions like untreated gum disease. These conditions can add to the burden on a person’s immune system. If a patient is dealing with chronic health conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and even cancers, Dr. Meyer can work alongside the patient’s medical care team in Cheyenne, Wyoming to help improve the overall health of the patient by treating the problems in the mouth.

Knowing about a patient’s medical history is important in helping identify the patient’s risk factors for oral health conditions. This allows your dentist to create a plan to help you prevent future problems.

What training do dentists have?

Dentists typically finish 4-5 years of undergraduate study which focuses on intensive study of sciences and then another 4 years of dental school, similar to medical doctors. After completion of their dental program, they must pass both multi-part clinical board exams, as well as multi-part written board exams. Once they have passed these tests, they are eligible to apply for state licenses where they wish to practice, which includes a state jurisprudence exam.

Just like medical doctors, dentists also must complete continuing education throughout the course of their careers to stay up to date on the latest evidence-based practices in the industry.

Dentists who choose to specialize such as pediatric dentists or orthodontists also complete further training in residency programs after completing the 4 years of dental school, and can also apply to become board-certified in their field by taking further examinations.