Dentistry
Dentistry is the medical specialty dedicated to the study of teeth, gums and other anatomical structures that form the mouth, including mucous membranes, tongue or lips.
These elements allow for other essential physiological functions such as eating, chewing, swallowing, speaking, pronouncing and kissing. In addition, they affect facial expressions that are exclusive to human beings, perhaps the most special of which is the smile.
The World Health Organisation recognises oral health as a basic human necessity for achieving adequate nutrition, as well as its direct impact on social wellbeing via the development of social skills and relationships.
Oral health and annual check-ups
Oral health in Spain has improved significantly in recent years. The general public is gaining awareness on the relationship between oral health and other health issues such as cardiovascular diseases, osteoarthritis or neurodegenerative diseases. In addition, it is widely accepted that a beautiful smile improves people’s self-esteem and their inter-personal relationships.
Nevertheless, although the benefits of oral health are widely recognised, over half of the Spanish population does not undergo the recommended annual dental check-up.