Dental Assistant

A registered dental assistant is a licensed professional who assists with general oral healthcare procedures and support in a dental office. A registered dental assistant is able to perform all of the duties of a certified dental assistant including preparing exam rooms, assisting dentists and hygienists during procedures and examinations, educating patients on oral health, providing patients with aftercare instructions, and scheduling appointments. They’re also able to perform expanded duties including taking x-rays and applying topical anesthesia. Registered dental assistants typically work in a clinical environment at a dental practice, a public health department, or in schools specializing in dental care.

A dentist is a medical doctor who focuses on oral health, including teeth, and gums. Through diagnostic tools, procedures, and instruments, they carefully and thoroughly examine patients’ teeth and mouth to check for oral disease, diagnose dental issues and evaluate overall oral and dental health. They perform preventive dental care and complete routine dental procedures. They also educate patients on the importance of good oral hygiene, and recommend devices and dental appliances. A dentist typically enjoys a flexible schedule and works for a dental practice, a private practice, or a public health department.

A dental hygienist works closely with dentists and is mainly responsible for performing dental cleanings. They ensure patients are comfortable and prepared for their appointments, sterilize dental equipment, check for signs of cavities and gingivitis, remove excess plaque and tartar from teeth, and apply preventative sealants like fluoride. Additional duties may include taking dental impressions, operating x-ray machines, and working with dentists to determine diagnoses, and keeping up-to-date documentation of patient visits. Dental hygienists work in a dental office.

A dental front desk manager oversees the daily office operations and supervises the front office staff at a dental practice. They greet patients, and help them fill out forms, coordinate phone calls and patient scheduling, and prepare patient charts and daily schedules for the dental team. They also calculate fees, coordinate financial agreements, file insurance claims forms, and interface with dental insurance companies for the patient. After appointments, they make sure dental charts and patient electronic records are updated. Dental front desk managers typically work full or part-time for a dental practice or clinic.

A certified dental assistant is a dental professional who provides oral health care services and clinical support at dentists’ offices. They welcome patients and establish a rapport to make them comfortable and record detailed medical and dental histories, measure vital signs, apply any required topical anesthetic, and assist dentists and dental hygienists by handing off the necessary dental instruments and dental supplies. After an appointment is complete, they update patient records and sterilize all equipment and instruments while adhering to all dental office infection control policies and safety regulations. Dental assistants will also provide post-operative instruction, schedule follow-up appointments, and answer patient questions about oral hygiene. They typically work in a clinical environment at a dental practice, at public health departments, or in schools specializing in dental care.