Thursday, August 28, 2014

Dental and Oral Disease in Hermitage Tennessee

Dr. Whitefield will most probably advise Tennessee residents on just how to prevent dental and oral diseases, through proper hygiene and regular professional dentist checkups for cleaning and evaluation - usually twice yearly. It is extremely important for patients to take their checkups seriously, as this will also aid in the prevention of serious dental and oral diseases.


The two most common dental and oral diseases are tooth decay and gum disease. Common treatments involve the restoration of teeth, extraction or surgical removal of teeth, scaling and root planning and root canal treatment. Conditions in the oral cavity may also be an indication of diseases such as osteoporosis, diabetes, or cancer. Studies have also shown that gum disease can be associated with an increased risk of diabetes, heart disease, and preterm birth.

Visit Dr. Whitefield at 4251 Lebanon Pike, Hermitage, TN 37076 or give him a call on 615-889-5545 and schedule your dental and oral appointment today! 

Wednesday, August 13, 2014

What is Dentistry?

Dentistry is the study, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of diseases, disorders and conditions of the oral cavity, particularly the teeth, and to an extent related conditions in the jaws and face that are widely considered important for overall health (Wikipedia).

Dental teams can consist of a dentist such as Dr. Whitefield in Tennessee, dental assistants, dental hygienists, dental technicians, and dental therapists. Most dentists work from private dentistry practices, and some even work in hospitals and institutions like prisons and less fortunate organizations. All dentists in the United States undergo at least three years of undergraduate studies, with most completing their bachelor’s degree as well. Then another 4 years of dental school follows to qualify as a "Doctor of Dental Surgery" (DDS) or "Doctor of Dental Medicine" (DMD). To be able to do more complex treatments such as sedation, oral, surgery, and dental implants, dentists would need to continue their education and complete additional qualifications.


Visit Dr. Whitefield at 4251 Lebanon Pike, Hermitage, TN 37076 or give him a call on 615-889-5545 and schedule your dentistry appointment today!