Dentistry Careers
A career in dentistry can be a lucrative choice. Also, you'll earn the satisfaction of knowing that you're helping people become more healthier, look better and gain more self-respect. There are many different career paths to choose from in this field. Some require a great deal of education and training (such as oral surgery), while for others (such as dental assisting) you may only need to complete a one-year training program.
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Dental Technician
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Every patient's teeth and dental conditions are different. The dental technician's job is to correctly interpret the dentist's instructions to use molds of the patient's mouth. These molds are used to make dentures (both full dentures and removable partial dentures), as well as fixed bridges, crowns, veneers and orthodontic devices to correct any dental problems. Functionality and aesthetic appeal are both end goals of a dental technician's work. Dental technicians may own their own lab, work in a commercial lab, or move on to become the lab's department head. Dental techs may also go on to teach their craft to others. This career requires either a two-year or four-year degree, as well as an evaluation exam for certification.
Dental Hygienist
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This job is regulated according to state law, so the specific responsibilities of a dental hygienist may differ slightly from state to state. In general, however, dental hygienists are responsible for assessing a patient's oral health, reviewing the patient's history, screening for oral cancer, taking X-rays, cleaning plaque from the teeth, applying fluoride and sealants, and creating impressions (molds) of the patient's teeth. Dental hygienists may also be responsible for discussing good oral hygiene practices with patients and teaching the proper methods of brushing and flossing. They may also perform routine office duties. A dental hygienist should be comfortable working with people. A two-year degree is perfectly acceptable, although hygienists who plan to teach or work in a public-health program should enroll in a four-year degree program. The dental hygienist will need to pass licensing exams.
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Dental Assistant
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A dental assistant performs many different tasks, which may vary slightly depending on state regulations. Over the course of a work day, a dental assistant may expect to take X-rays, sterilize instruments and equipment, assist the dentist during procedures, help patients undergoing dental treatment feel comfortable, help patients understand any special instructions following a treatment or surgery, and teach patients about proper oral hygiene. A dental assistant may also carry out routine office duties, such as scheduling appointments, ordering supplies and doing the billing. Unlike a dental hygienist, a dental-assistant accreditation program typically takes about a year to complete. Dental assistants can earn their certification by passing an exam.
Oral Surgeon
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An oral surgeon treats and corrects serious medical problems involving the mouth, teeth, jaw and facial area. They may treat cysts and tumors of the jaw area, ease any facial pain, correct any jaw misalignment, perform dental implants, and also do reconstructive or cosmetic surgery for patients who have suffered an accident, such as a car crash. To become an oral surgeon, you must first successfully complete dental school. Then you'll need to enroll in a four-year dental surgery program. Afterwards, you'll take national and state licensing exams.
Prosthodontist
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A prosthodontist often deals with the cosmetic part of dentistry. They apply veneers and tooth whitening. They will help correct chipped, broken and decayed teeth. They help treat patients with cleft palates. Prosthodontists frequently help patients correct missing teeth by performing dental implants, crowns, bridges or by providing dentures. To become a prosthodontist, you first need to enroll in dental school. Following your successful completion of dental school, you must complete a prosthodontics postgraduate program (a three-year program). Then you'll need to pass the licensing exams.
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