Pediatric Dental Office Job Descriptions

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics states that most dentists are general practitioners, handling a variety of dental needs. However, other dentists practice in any of nine specialty areas, such as pediatric dentistry. Pediatric dentistry is simply a dentist who specializes in children.

Children are unpredictable and, because of a child's nature, pediatric dentists are trained to be patient and examine a child's teeth while keeping him comfortable. Most pediatric dental offices decorate with children in mind, keeping the mood fun and exciting.

Front Desk Cordinator

MyDentalJobs.com says a front desk treatment coordinator usually requires dental office experience. Along with experience, you will need a good work ethic, positive attitude, great communication skills, proficiency with computers, for posting, scheduling and insurance input. As with most jobs, a candidate must be professional and have a desire to provide optimal care to patients and families. Duties include taking phone calls, scheduling appointments and submitting insurance claims.

Dental Office Manager

The dental office manager should provide general supervision of all business aspects of the practice. Specific duties of a dental office manager include hiring and supervising the work of part-time employees, controlling the budget and expenses, completing payroll and stocking supplies.

Pediatric Dental Hygienist

Dental hygienist must obtain a degree from an accredited dental hygiene school and a state license to be eligible for work. According to U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, duties of a dental hygienist include removing of soft and hard deposits from teeth, teaching patients how to practice good oral hygiene and providing other preventive dental care. Hygienists also examine patients' teeth and gums, recording the presence of diseases or abnormalities.

Pediatric Dental Assistant

Pediatric dental assistants must be registered dental assistants. Job duties would include taking X-rays, educating patients and parents and assisting dentists and hygienists with patients. Dental assistants must also sterilize all dental tools to ensure cleanliness for all patients.

Pediatric dental offices prefer extra certifications. Such certifications will likely set applicants apart from others and include nitrous oxide certification, sealant certification and CPR certification.

Pediatric Dentist

Pediatric dentists must have a doctor of dental surgery or doctor of medical dentistry from an accredited university and an active license is required. To practice pediatric dentistry, one must usually obtain CPR certification in basic life-saving skills and be able to operate digital X-rays, digital charting and intra-oral cameras.

References

• My Dental Jobs
• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics