Expert: Beth - 8/13/2006

Question
how does chemistry apply to a dentist?

Answer
I can think of an example where a dentist would use chemistry. I have a condition known as TMJ; you may be familiar with it. This condition requires me to where a splint. Without the splint, my jaw would become dislocated. The splint look like a retainer. Anyway, the dentist makes adjustments to the splint. He does this by adding a paste on top of the split. This paste hardens and blends in with the original plastic of the splint. To make the paste, he has to mix solutions together. This is chemistry. Also, dentists prescribe drugs. How the drugs will affect the body is also chemistry. The dentist must have a working knowledge of this and drug interactions to prescribe medications. I hope this helps.......

- Beth