What a dentist does
A dentist diagnoses and treats problems of the teeth, gums, mouth and jaw. Dental training is a BDS (Bachelor of Dental Surgery), and specialists hold an MDS in areas such as orthodontics (braces), endodontics (root canal), periodontics (gums), prosthodontics (crowns, dentures and implants), oral and maxillofacial surgery and paediatric dentistry. Oral health affects eating, speech, confidence and general health: gum disease is linked with diabetes and heart disease, and poor dental hygiene in pregnancy is linked with complications.
When to see a dentist
- Toothache, sensitivity to hot or cold, or a visible hole or dark spot in a tooth.
- Bleeding, swollen or receding gums, or persistent bad breath.
- A loose tooth, a broken tooth, or swelling of the face; facial swelling with fever needs prompt care.
- Crooked teeth, gaps or a bite that does not close properly.
- A mouth ulcer or a white or red patch that does not heal within three weeks, which can be an early sign of oral cancer, especially in people who chew tobacco or paan.
- A routine check-up and cleaning every six months, and when a child's first tooth appears.
Common treatments
Fillings for cavities, scaling and polishing, root canal treatment to save an infected tooth, crowns and bridges, dentures, dental implants, tooth extraction and wisdom-tooth removal, braces and clear aligners, teeth whitening, gum treatment, and care for children's teeth, including fluoride and sealants. A root canal is often misunderstood: it relieves pain by removing infected tissue, and a crown afterwards helps protect the tooth.
Oral cancer screening
Oral cancer is among the most common cancers in India, strongly linked with tobacco, gutka, betel quid and alcohol. A dentist can spot early changes during a routine check-up. Stopping tobacco is the single most effective step to lower risk.
Costs
Consultation fees commonly range from about ₹200 to ₹800 and may vary. Treatment costs, including root canals, implants and braces, vary widely by clinic, materials and city, so ask for a written estimate, the number of visits and any warranty. Preventive care is the most cost-effective.
Choosing a dentist and caring for your teeth
Check BDS/MDS qualification and registration with the Dental Council, hygiene and sterilisation practices, and a clear explanation of options. Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste for two minutes, clean between teeth, limit sugary snacks and drinks, avoid tobacco, rinse after meals and visit twice a year. Compare dentists and book on Lab Dekho.
Trusted References
This guide is original content informed by recognised medical and public-health sources. For further reading:
Disclaimer: This guide is for general information and does not replace advice from a qualified doctor. Costs and fees are approximate and vary by provider. Institution names are given for orientation only; check current services and timings directly. In an emergency, call 108 or 112.