Dentists play a vital role in maintaining our oral health and, in turn, our overall well-being. From conducting routine check-ups to addressing complex dental issues, they ensure that we flash our healthiest, most confident smiles.
If you’re a parent looking for the best care for your family’s oral health or simply curious about what a dentist does, you’re in the right place. This blog breaks down what a dentist is, what dentists do, the range of treatments they offer, and why 5 Mile Smiles stands out as a top dental practice in Spokane.
What is a Dentist?
At its core, a dentist is a healthcare professional who specializes in diagnosing, treating, and preventing oral diseases and conditions. Their work doesn’t just stop at teeth—they also focus on the gums, jaw, and connected structures in the mouth.
Dentists undergo years of rigorous training, which typically includes:
- Completing a bachelor’s degree followed by dental school to earn a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree.
- Passing national and state licensing exams.
- Optional further specialization in areas like orthodontics, periodontics, or oral surgery.
Tackling complex dental issues requires a comprehensive understanding of the human mouth and its intricate workings. Dentists are also well-versed in using various tools, equipment, and techniques to address specific conditions.
What Do Dentists Do?
A dentist’s responsibilities cover a wide spectrum, addressing needs from preventive care to emergency interventions.
Here’s a closer look at their work:
Preventive Care
Regular dental visits and cleanings are all about prevention.
Dentists focus on:
- Detecting early signs of cavities, gum disease, and oral cancer.
- Professional cleaning to remove plaque and tartar.
- Providing guidance on oral hygiene practices like proper brushing and flossing.
Restorative Treatments
When dental problems arise, dentists step in with treatments like:
- Fillings: Fixing cavities with tooth-colored materials to restore aesthetics and function.
- Root Canals: Saving infected or damaged teeth by treating their inner pulp.
- Dental Crowns: Covering and protecting weakened or broken teeth with durable, custom-made caps.
Cosmetic Treatments
Many people turn to dentists for a confidence-boosting smile, with options such as:
- Teeth whitening for a brighter appearance.
- Veneers to mask imperfections and enhance the look of your teeth.
- Orthodontic treatments like Invisalign to straighten misaligned teeth.
Emergencies
Dental emergencies also fall under a dentist’s purview—be it a knocked-out tooth, severe pain, or injuries to the mouth. Acting quickly is crucial to minimize damage and alleviate discomfort.
Other Responsibilities
Dentists perform oral surgeries, provide solutions for sleep apnea, address TMJ disorders, and even improve cosmetic gum appearances. They’re equipped to handle a variety of oral and maxillofacial conditions, making them pivotal to your overall health.
Dentists vs. Orthodontists
While dentists address a broad spectrum of oral health needs, orthodontists specialize in aligning teeth and improving bite health. They are the go-to experts for treatments such as braces and Invisalign.
However, general dentists often work closely with orthodontists to ensure patients receive comprehensive care.
At 5 Mile Smiles, we provide orthodontic treatments like traditional braces and Invisalign, so you can have your needs met without seeking external providers.
Comprehensive Care with 5 Mile Smiles
For dental patients in Spokane, 5 Mile Smiles is a trusted name. From routine dental exams to advanced restorative and cosmetic dentistry, our full suite of services ensures both your smile and overall oral health are in excellent hands.
Here’s why we’re unique:
General Dentistry
Biannual cleanings, X-rays, and oral examinations are at the heart of preventive care. Using state-of-the-art technology like digital imaging and intraoral cameras, we detect issues early and address them before they escalate.
With general dentistry, we also cover:
- Tooth extractions: Removing damaged or infected teeth.
- Gum disease treatment: Addressing periodontal disease through scaling and root planing.
- Oral cancer screenings: Detecting early signs of oral cancer for timely intervention.
Emergency Dentistry
Dental emergencies can strike unexpectedly. Whether you’re suffering from a painful toothache, a knocked-out tooth, or oral tissue injuries, Dr. Jason Keefe and his team provide same-day emergency appointments to give you the relief you need.
Restorative Dentistry
We specialize in addressing dental issues that affect your mouth’s functionality and appearance, such as:
- Dental Implants: Durable, natural-looking tooth replacements.
- Root Canals: Effective treatments for tooth infections.
- CEREC Crowns: Same-day crowns using cutting-edge technology.
Cosmetic Dentistry
Crafting confident smiles is our passion. Some of the services we offer are:
- Teeth Whitening: Featuring Philips Zoom! for results in as little as 30 minutes.
- Porcelain Veneers: Correcting chips, gaps, and discoloration for a flawless smile.
- Smile Makeovers: Combined treatments designed to transform your grin.
Advanced Technology
We integrate the latest dental advancements like 3D CBCT imaging, WaveOne, and CEREC crowns to ensure fast, accurate, and comfortable treatments. These innovations empower us to deliver top-tier dental care tailored to modern needs.
Meet Dr. Jason Keefe
Dr. Jason Keefe has been serving Spokane for 25 years and is celebrated as one of the best dentists in the area. A graduate of the University of Washington School of Dentistry, Dr. Keefe has studied under dental experts, refining his skills and staying at the forefront of dental innovation.
Whether it’s general checkups, complex restorative treatments, or cosmetic enhancements, Dr. Keefe’s expertise and compassionate care make him a standout in dental care.
Choose 5 Mile Smiles for Your Dental Needs
If you’ve wondered, “what is a dentist?”, think of them as the guardians of your oral health. At 5 Mile Smiles, we take that responsibility seriously by offering comprehensive care and ensuring every patient leaves with a healthier, more confident smile.
Trust us to be your partner in maintaining optimal dental health—schedule an appointment today and experience the difference!
From preventing cavities to crafting radiant smiles, we ensure every visit leaves you feeling confident and cared for. To experience the best dentistry Spokane has to offer, contact 5 Mile Smiles today. Call 509-326-2621 or book an appointment online.
Your smile deserves expert care—schedule your visit with Dr. Keefe and the 5 Mile Smiles team now.
