When it is said...

Dentistry – Dentist

Dentistry, also known as dental medicine, is a healthcare field focused on the health of the oral cavity. It examines not only the function, position and organisation of the teeth, but also their supporting tissues, including the alveolar bone, periodontal tissues, gums and the upper and lower jaws. It covers everything from the prevention of tooth decay and other diseases to their diagnosis and treatment.

Dentistry is divided into many specialisations. One of them is conservative dentistry, which focuses on the prevention and treatment of tooth decay. Periodontology focuses on the treatment of the gums and oral mucosa, while orthodontics deals with developmental abnormalities, particularly the incorrect positioning of the teeth and jaws. A related field is oral surgery, which addresses these problems when conservative treatment with braces is not sufficient. Prosthodontics specialises in replacing non-functional or missing teeth, while implantology focuses on dental implants.

Conservative Dentistry

Conservative dentistry focuses on the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of tooth decay and other related conditions. Its aim is to preserve natural teeth so that they can continue to function properly. It also places great emphasis on regular oral care, including the removal of dental plaque. Conservative dentistry also covers aesthetic dental corrections and the treatment of dental injuries, such as fractures.

What to Do in Case of Acute Toothache?

If you experience severe tooth or gum pain, we recommend visiting your dentist without delay. Outside your dentist’s regular opening hours, emergency dental services are available, either at a regional hospital or at one of the private dental practices. Information should be available on the hospital’s or municipality’s website.

An emergency dentist chooses treatment methods aimed primarily at relieving intense pain. Tooth extraction is performed only in exceptional cases when the tooth can no longer be saved. The usual goal is to prevent further complications and damage. In any case, you should make an appointment with your regular dentist as soon as possible after emergency treatment, so they can recommend the appropriate next steps.

Dentist

A dentist is also sometimes referred to as a dental doctor or dental practitioner. In the Czech Republic, however, every dentist must have a university degree. Dentists currently graduate with the title MDDr. (Doctor of Dental Medicine); in the past, the title MUDr. (Doctor of General Medicine) was commonly awarded.

In most countries, dental studies take between four and eight years and include practical training with patients. In the Czech Republic, the programme has been five years long since 1992 and has a specialised curriculum from the very beginning. This allows students to focus on practical professional training from their first year. Once they have completed their studies, they can practise independently, in accordance with Act No. 95/2004 Coll. and Decree No. 233/2008 Coll.

Does a Dentist Have to Accept You as a Patient?

In the Czech Republic, two main factors determine whether a dentist can accept a new patient. An important consideration is the health insurance provider, with which the dental practice must have a contractual relationship. The capacity and workload of the dentist and other staff also play a role, as stipulated by Section 48 of the Health Services Act. A dentist therefore does not have to accept or treat a patient if they are unable to provide an appropriate level of care and safety.

What Equipment Should a Dental Practice Have?

No modern dental practice can do without a high-quality dental chair. Today’s ergonomically designed models provide maximum comfort for patients while making the dentist’s work as easy as possible. Ideally, they combine a simple design with intuitive controls and easy maintenance.

Diagnostic equipment is also essential. This includes panoramic X-ray equipment, which produces a complete image of both jaws. It is useful for comprehensive imaging, while intraoral X-rays are better suited to capturing detailed images of individual teeth.

At Dentry and ArbesDentry, dentists also use a dental microscope, which allows them to see even the smallest details. They also rely on a wide range of other equipment, instruments and materials for dental restorations. High-quality lighting is essential in every dental practice, while additional equipment depends on the specific specialisation.