Dentistry, also known as dental medicine and 'oral medicine, is a branch of medicine that consists of the study, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of diseases, disorders, and conditions of the oral cavity, commonly in the dentition but also the oral mucosa, and of adjacent and related structures and tissues, particularly in the maxillofacial area.The goal is to prevent complications such as tooth decay (cavities) and gum disease and to maintain the overall health of your mouth.