A dentist provides preventive treatment such as scaling, cleaning and fluoride therapy.

A dentist repairs teeth damaged by decay or trauma, rebuilding tooth structures for functional or cosmetic reasons and providing crowns and bridges.

A dentist also treats diseases of the roots, gums and soft tissues of the mouth and carries out various surgical procedures, from routine extractions to far more complex operations on the jaws and soft tissues.

X-rays are used to detect abnormalities and plan treatment.

Malformation and misalignment of teeth and jaws are corrected by providing 'braces' or other appliances.

The need to extract teeth has considerably decreased due to improved knowledge and education and the development of conservative techniques, materials and equipment.

A dentist also designs dentures by taking impressions, recording jaw relations, selecting colour and mould of teeth and correctly fitting dental appliances manufactured by dental technicians to dentists' prescriptions.