A dentist is also known as a dental surgeon that specializes in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of different conditions and diseases of the oral cavity. They can perform the majority of dental treatments such as dental restorations, orthodontics, prosthetics, periodontal therapy and extraction of teeth. Licensed dentists can also prescribe medications that help treat various conditions of the oral cavity.

There are dentists who are involved in dental public health which is considered to be a non-clinical specialty. They deal with common cases such as fluoridation and poor oral hygiene with tooth decay being the most common food related disease. Dentists engage in national projects to curb the problems and promote proper dental hygiene through seminars and other activities. Most of these activities are sponsored by the government for the improvement of oral health in large populations through education and assistance.
Dentists in Australia must be registered with the Dental Board of Australia. These dentists must meet the entry requirements of any accredited Australian institution that offers dental courses. The dentist will then complete full-time academic training of approximately 5 years leading to a dental degree recognized by the Australian Dental Boards.

The Royal Australasian College of Dental Surgeons is a professional college that was established in 1965 that administers Fellowship Exams for general and specialist dental practitioners in the Australia. It was established to promote the highest standards in dentistry and to recognize noteworthy dental practitioners and specialists who have taken postgraduate training.

How to choose the right dentist

• Know the kind of dentist you need since not all dentists are equal. There are many different distinctions within the dental community and doing a little research might help you find the right type of dentist you need.
• Always check the credentials of the dentist. Ask for their credentials and proof of their experience in dentistry. You can also check the websites of some clinics and hospitals. You can also search for the dental office and read the reviews from previous patients there.
• Choose a dentist that will take your insurance or provide you with a payment plan that meets your needs. It is important that your financial requirements are met along with your health and dental needs.
• Consider a dentist is nearby to your residence for convenience.
• Set up a consultation ahead of your appointment to get your questions answered and to meet the staff that is in the office.
• Ask your new dentist if they offer patient comfort services to make your visit as comfortable as possible. Some dental offices offer refreshments and complimentary wellness services such as hot towels.
• Find out how long it takes to get an appointment. This would give you an idea of what kind of service you will be getting from the dentist.