Dentists are health professionals who specialize in mouth and dental health problems. Dentists can diagnose and treat dental problems, such as cavities and tooth loss, and perform cosmetic procedures, such as whitening teeth.

Dentists may further specialize in areas such as:

• Gum disease (periodontist).
• Straightening of the teeth (orthodontist).
• Nerves of the teeth (endodontist).
• Surgery on the mouth and gums (oral surgeon).
• Tooth restoration (prosthodontist).

Also, dentists may specialize in treating specific age groups, such as pediatric dentists, who only treat children.

Dentists must complete a 4-year program, pass a national exam for certification by the Royal College of Dentists of Canada, and be licensed by the College of Dentistry in the province in which they practice.