A dentist is a health professional who prevents, detects, diagnoses and treats deficiencies and abnormalities in people's teeth, mouths, jaws and neighbouring tissues. Using diagnostic tests such as x-rays, he or she identifies and treats illnesses, injuries and malformations of the teeth and gums and prescribes and administers preventive care. He or she may also perform surgery, such as tooth extraction, or be active in research. more... See more text