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An Interview with Dr. Rahele Zabeti by Dr. Vernon Gipson

Dentistry ranks among the oldest branches of medicine. Archaeological evidence from the Neolithic settlement of Mehrgarh in present-day Pakistan shows that even 9,000 years ago people performed dental procedures: researchers found clear signs of at least 11 operations on the teeth of eight individuals.

​On the chewing surfaces of these ancient teeth, researchers observed artificially drilled holes measuring 1–3 mm in diameter and 0.5–3.5 mm in depth. All treated teeth were located deep in the mouth, suggesting the use of a primitive bow-drill tipped with flint.

How far has dentistry come since those prehistoric times? Dr. Vernon Gipson invited Dr. Rahele Zabeti—head physician, implantologist, periodontist, orthopedist and orthodontist—to take us on a brief journey through the history of dentistry and to explain what the teeth and oral cavity can reveal about a person’s overall health.

The Emergence of Modern Dental Science

​Dentistry as a distinct scientific discipline appeared at the end of the 19th century and took its present medical form only in the 20th century. Nevertheless, people have long understood the link between oral health and general well-being: in prehistoric communities, strong teeth were essential for survival.

Folklore across many cultures consistently praises “pearly teeth” as a sign of beauty, strength and vitality. These early references already reflect an intuitive grasp of the connection between oral health and overall physical condition.

What Can a Routine Dental Examination Reveal?

What can even a primary examination of the oral cavity and teeth tell a modern dentist about the state of the body as a whole?

During the very first visual assessment, a dentist can detect not only aesthetic concerns but also early signs of serious systemic conditions. Specific changes in the oral mucosa, gums or teeth may indicate severe vitamin deficiencies, oncological processes, genetic disorders, fungal infections or immune-mediated diseases.

So, are teeth truly an indicator of overall health?

Dr. Zabeti clarifies: “Teeth themselves are not the primary mirror of systemic health, but the entire oral cavity certainly is.” Dentistry today encompasses far more than teeth: it studies the periodontium, oral mucosa, jawbones, temporomandibular joints and the muscles that control them. Focusing solely on teeth, she notes, overlooks the broader picture of a patient’s health.

A Multidisciplinary Approach to Patient Care

I think that you, as a universal doctor who masters most dental specialties, can provide a comprehensive treatment plan.

Dr. Zabeti explains that her broad expertise stems from a deliberate refusal to limit herself to a single narrow field. Treating only one problem often leaves other potential issues unaddressed. In-depth knowledge across several dental disciplines allows her to evaluate the complete oral-health status of each patient and to identify hidden risks in addition to the immediate complaint.

The most common reasons patients seek dental care today remain pain or discomfort (from teeth, joints or gums), functional difficulties such as chewing problems, gum disease and aesthetic dissatisfaction.

Modern Prevention Strategies

What does dental-disease prevention look like today—its role, types and specifics?

Prevention must be individualized. While some people claim they have not visited a dentist in 20 years and still enjoy perfect teeth, such cases are extremely rare. Over her 22 years of practice, Dr. Zabeti has encountered only a handful of patients whose natural resistance compensated for minimal hygiene. Far more often, patients who believe they are brushing correctly still develop caries because the chosen preventive measures are inadequate.

​If new cavities appear every six months despite regular check-ups, the hygiene protocol itself needs revision. The dentist’s responsibility is to design and teach an effective, personalized prevention program rather than simply record new lesions.

Change dentist—or learn proper brushing technique?

Another common misconception is that one universal brushing method suits everyone. While following general guidelines is better than nothing, truly effective oral hygiene must be tailored to each patient’s dental anatomy, caries pattern, presence of implants or orthodontic appliances, and other individual factors. Only a dentist can select and demonstrate the optimal technique.

Rapid Advances in Dental Technology

How quickly is dental science progressing today?

Over the past five decades, dentistry has advanced at an extraordinary pace. Light-cured composites once seemed revolutionary; they were followed by modern ceramics, dental implants, nearly invisible orthodontic appliances, and the routine use of operating microscopes that magnify treatment 50–60 times. Dr. Zabeti is confident that innovation will continue to accelerate.

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