Overview
The study of diagnosing, treating and preventing diseases and abnormalities of the teeth and adjacent tissues. It includes the study of designing, making and repairing dental prostheses and orthodontic appliances, and assisting with dental procedures. The main purpose of this narrow field of education is to develop an understanding of dental health, hygiene and technology, the prevention and treatment of disease, pain control, the structure and function of teeth and gums, and client care during treatment. It also involves developing an ability to assess and evaluate clinical observations to arrive at diagnoses and determine the appropriate courses of action.
Course skills
Dentistry develops skills in:
- designing, making and repairing dental prostheses and orthodontic appliances
- educating patients about dental health and oral hygiene
- filling cavities, extracting teeth, constructing inlays and crowns, performing bridge work, fitting dentures and other appliances
- maintaining and preparing dental materials and equipment
- using dental instruments and equipment.
Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics