Odontologi

Odontology, also known as odontologia in some languages, is the scientific study of the structure, development, and diseases of the teeth and the tissues that support them. It encompasses the anatomy, histology, physiology, pathology, and radiology of dental tissues, as well as the growth and eruption of teeth across the life course. In modern usage, it underpins dental science and practice.

The field covers both basic science and applied aspects. It informs preventive care, diagnosis, and treatment planning in dentistry, including restorative materials, biomechanics, and dental materials science. Forensic odontology, a well-known subfield, uses dental evidence for identification and investigation, while dental anthropology studies variation in teeth to understand human evolution and populations.

Education and professional context vary by country. Odontology is taught as part of dental or medical curricula and may lead to research degrees in dental science. Clinically, knowledge of odontological science supports dentists and other oral health professionals in delivering evidence-based care.

In contemporary practice, odontology intersects with public health, radiology, genetics, and biomaterials. Advances in imaging, digital dentistry, and molecular biology continue to expand its scope, from understanding tooth development and pathology to improving diagnostic methods and preventive strategies.