General Dentist
what two titles could individuals earn upon graduating dental school?
DDS or DMD
Minimum educational requirement for a RDH
2 academic years at an accredited college and the completion of an associate degree in an approved hygiene program
What is an administrative assistant responsible for?
day-to-day operations of the office, which may include scheduling appts, communicating with other doctors offices and pt's by phone, creating financial arrangements for treatment, and filing dental insurance claims
What is the definition of oral hygiene
the practice of keeping the mouth clean and free of disease and other problems
How much continuing education does a dentist need for a specialty?
additional 2-6 years
How many years does it take to complete all the required dental course?
4 years
After graduating what must the hygienist pass?
written national or regional exam along with a clinical state board exam
Why would it be helpful for a Clinical assistant to move into an administrative assistant position?
they understand how dental procedures work
What are dental hygienists responsible for?
providing routine oral hygiene care for all patients
How many dental specialties does the ADA recognize?
10
What must an individual do before they are admitted to a dental program?
earn an undergraduate degree
What must the hygienist do if they want to practice in multiple states?
they must take the clinical exam for each state due to different laws and duties they are allowed to perform
Where is a dental lab technician typically employed?
at a private lab or their own facility
Who is ultimately responsible for the work the hygienist does?
The dentist
Name the 5 positions that make up the dental team
1. Dentist
2. Administrative Dental Assistant
3. Dental Hygienist
4. Dental Laboratory technician
5. Clinical Dental Assistant
What options do dentists have after passing all exams?
work for a large group practice (corporate office), become a military dentist, work in public health or a community clinic, work on research projects, teaching, or continue training to become a specialist
What professional organization can a dental hygienist be apart of?
American Dental Hygienist Association
What does a dental lab technician do?
make crowns, bridges, and dentures but can only complete the tasks as they are written on a prescription from the dentist
Where can a dental hygienist be employed?
private office or a specialty office, health clinic, school system, research facility, public health department, educational program, or in marketing and selling dental products.
What does a dental anesthesiologist specialize in?
managing pain and anxiety during dental surgery
What is the written exam called that all dentist's must pass in order to obtain their license?
NBDE- National Board Dental Examination
What are the responsibilities of a dental hygienist?
What education is required to become a dental lab tech?
Most staes do not require formal education. They can complete a two year apprenticeship and take a written exam to become a certified lab technician
What is important foe the hygienist to understand?
the laws in the state or region in which they practice
what does an oral maxillofacial radiologist focus on?
specialized techniques and special equipment to take radiographs, pictures of teeth, to locate tumors and other infectious diseases in the head and neck region