dentistry
UK: ˈden.tɪ.stri | US: ˈden.t̬ɪ.stri
n. the profession or science of diagnosing, treating, and preventing diseases and conditions of the teeth and gums.
n. the practice or business of a dentist.
dentistry = dent<tooth> + ist<agent suffix> + ry<noun suffix>
- dent: From Latin dens (tooth), retained in English as a root for tooth-related terms (e.g., dental, denture).
- ist: A suffix denoting a practitioner or specialist (e.g., artist, biologist).
- ry: A noun-forming suffix indicating a profession or field (e.g., chemistry, forestry).
Etymology Origin:
The word dentistry emerged in the 18th century, combining dent (tooth) with -ist (specialist) and -ry (field of practice). It reflects the formalization of tooth care as a medical discipline, rooted in Latin dens but adapted into English through French influence (dentiste). The suffix -istry parallels other professional fields (e.g., chemistry), emphasizing systematic study.
Modern dentistry emphasizes preventive care to avoid cavities.
She pursued a degree in dentistry to become an orthodontist.
Advances in dentistry have made procedures nearly painless.
His clinic offers cosmetic dentistry services like whitening.
Ancient dentistry relied on rudimentary tools for extractions.