Dental Office Job Descriptions
A dental office may consist of a dentist working alone, or a large staff with a variety of functions. A dentist that works alone may oversee administrative tasks such as bookkeeping or appointment scheduling. In larger offices, dentists may employ a variety of dental office staff, including dental assistants, dental hygienists, dental laboratory technicians and dental receptionists.
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Dentist
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A dentist evaluates a patient's dental needs by examining the teeth and mouth and analyzing X-rays. The dentist treats dental problems by filling cavities, extracting teeth and rebuilding broken teeth. She may make models for replacement teeth and perform surgery on gums or supporting bones. She may hire staff and oversee administrative tasks. Some dentists specialize in treating particular dental problems, such as gum disease, root canals or oral surgery.
Dental Hygienist
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The dental hygienist performs routine treatment procedures, such as cleaning and polishing teeth. She assesses the dental needs of each patient and documents the presence of abnormalities and disease. She may offer dental education to patients such as how to brush and floss teeth. Dental hygienists often take X-rays and may develop the film. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, job duties of dental hygienists may vary by state. In some states, they may administer anesthetics.
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Dental Assistant
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Dental assistants perform a wide variety of tasks including both patient care and office duties. Their job description includes assisting the dentist in providing dental treatment. This includes maintaining equipment, supplies and dental instruments. They may hand instruments to the dentist and keep the patient's mouth dry using suction. The dental assistant may prepare dental materials, such as amalgam, composite and cement. She provides patients with instructions for good oral care.
Technicians
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Dental technicians design dental devices such as full or partial dentures, bridges, crowns, inlays and clasps. The dentist sends a prescription for the item to be created along with an impression of the patient's mouth. Job descriptions for dental technicians may reflect specialization in certain areas, such as orthodontic appliances, partial dentures, complete dentures or crowns and bridges.
Considerations
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Other members of the dental team include dental receptionists, treatment coordinators and bookkeepers. Some dental offices employ an office manager, who oversees the duties of office personnel so that administrative tasks runs smoothly and efficiently. A dental office is a setting in which all member work as a team. Job descriptions may overlap, and there is often sharing of job duties, especially in small offices.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit two dentist image by Andrey Kiselev from Fotolia.com
