The odontologist, also known as a dental surgeon or dentist, is the healthcare professional in charge of the art of dentistry. Odontology covers tooth extraction surgery, the prevention and treatment of diseases of the teeth and mouth, the restoration of decayed teeth and root canal treatment, and the treatment of the supporting tissues (gums, bone, ligament). The odontologist may also be involved in making and fitting fixed or removable dental prostheses, in implantology (placing posts in the jawbone to support prostheses), or in orthodontics, which treats and prevents tooth position abnormalities by realigning teeth with orthodontic appliances.
