Dentists diagnose and treat diseases, injuries, and malformations of the teeth, gums and mouth.  They examine patient’s mouths for cavities, sores, swelling or other signs of disease. They can enhance their patient’s appearance through dental techniques such as braces, dentures, or dental surgery.  Dentists have also evolved to provide cosmetic care, including teeth whitening.
Most dentists are general practitioners and are usually self-employed.  They supervise the work of the dental health care team and have final responsibility for all dental services being provided.

Areas of Specialization
After completing dental school in general dentistry, graduates may enter practice or go on for advanced training in the following specialty areas: 

Dental Public Health – preventing and controlling dental disease
Endodontics – root canal and related therapy
Oral pathology – investigating the cause, process and effect of dental disease
Oral radiology – imaging to diagnose or treat related diseases.
Oral surgery – surgery of the mouth and jaws
Orthodontics – correction of teeth placement and facial structures
Pediatric Dentistry – treating children and adolescents
Periodontics – gum and supporting structure treatment
Prostodontics – treatment with artificial teeth and dentures

Work Environment
The majority of dentists work in private practice or with a dental group.  Their offices include a team of dental health care workers, such as a dental hygienist, dental assistant or dental laboratory technician.  Dentists may also work in hospitals, public clinics, teaching institutions, or research facilities.