A dentist is a registered health practitioner who diagnoses, prevents and treats diseases and conditions of the teeth, gums, mouth and jaws. In Australia, dentists must be registered with the Dental Board of Australia through Ahpra. This guide explains what dentists do and how they differ from other members of the dental team.
Definition of a dentist
A dentist is a practitioner qualified to provide the full range of general dental care. Dentists complete a university degree in dentistry, which takes at least five years of study, and must complete continuing professional development every year to stay registered.
What does a dentist do?
- Examines teeth, gums and the soft tissues of the mouth
- Takes and interprets X-rays
- Diagnoses decay, gum disease and other oral conditions
- Places fillings, crowns, bridges and veneers
- Performs root canal treatment
- Removes teeth, including some wisdom teeth
- Provides dentures, implants and clear aligners, depending on training
- Prescribes medicines for dental conditions
- Gives advice on prevention, diet and home care
- Refers to specialists when needed
Who else is in the dental team?
- Dental specialist: a dentist with extra university training and specialist registration in a field such as orthodontics, periodontics or oral surgery
- Oral health therapist: provides check-ups, cleaning, preventive care and some fillings, within their training
- Dental hygienist: focuses on gum health, cleaning and prevention
- Dental therapist: provides general care mainly for children and young people
- Dental prosthetist: makes and fits dentures
- Dental assistant: supports the practitioner and looks after infection control
Is a dentist a doctor?
Dentists are not medical doctors, although they may use the courtesy title Dr. See are dentists doctors in Australia? and can dentists prescribe antibiotics?
How to check a dentist is registered
Anyone can search the public register of practitioners on the Ahpra website to confirm that a practitioner is registered and see their registration type.
See the full range of care we provide on our dental services page, or read how often you should go to the dentist.
To book a visit at Penrith Dental Care, 42 Castlereagh Street, Penrith, contact our team. This article is general information and does not replace advice from your own dental practitioner.