A dentist is a licensed healthcare professional who specializes in diagnosing, preventing, and treating oral health problems. They are trained to provide dental care for patients of all ages, from infants to the elderly. Dentists play a critical role in maintaining good oral health, which is essential for overall health and well-being. Dentists provide a wide range of services, including routine dental check-ups, cleanings, and fillings, as well as more complex procedures such as root canals, dental implants, and orthodontics. They also diagnose and treat conditions such as gum disease, oral cancer, and temporomandibular joint disorders (TMJ). To become a dentist, an individual must complete a dental degree program, which typically takes four years to complete. After graduation, they must pass a licensing exam to become a licensed dentist in their state or country. Many dentists also continue their education through specialized training programs to provide additional services, such as orthodontics or oral surgery.