A typical visit to the dentist looks like checking in at the front desk, followed by being brought back to a chair where your teeth will be cleaned and examined by the dentist. But who are the individuals who help create a comfortable, seamless dental experience for you?
Dental Receptionists
When you first walk into the dental office, a dental receptionist is at the front desk ready to greet you. They are responsible for patient scheduling, communicating with insurance, and managing billing. The role requires organizational skills, as well as familiarity with computer software and insurance coding, to streamline communication between the practice and patients. Dental receptionists ultimately help dentists focus on delivering quality care.
Hygienists
Once you reach the dental chair, a hygienist will be there to perform a cleaning. In addition to teeth cleanings, their responsibilities include administering preventive care, such as applying fluoride and sealants to teeth, taking x-rays, and recording medical history. To become a hygienist, a dental hygiene associate’s (2-3 years) or bachelor’s (4 years) degree is needed. After earning the degree, they must take the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination and complete any additional state licensure requirements. Once they complete their training and certification, hygienists work with dentists to promote and ensure proper oral health.
Dental Assistants
During some dental procedures, you might see a dental assistant alongside the dentist. Dental assistants aid dentists in cosmetic and restorative procedures, such as bonding veneers and fitting crowns, making them easier and more efficient for the dentist to complete. They can also take impressions of the mouth for prosthetics. Before they can help with dental procedures, dental assistants complete a dental assistant program, which is usually 9 to 11 months long, before taking the Dental Assisting National Board exam and obtaining any necessary state license.
Dentists
Towards the end of your visit, the dentist will examine your mouth and teeth, possibly making a diagnosis if any irregularities are present. In addition to dental examinations, dentists treat health conditions by fitting crowns, extracting teeth, and applying fillings. Many types of dentists specialize in offering specific treatments. For example, orthodontists focus on aligning teeth, and prosthodontists specialize in crafting prosthetics. Most dentists complete an undergraduate degree through a pre-dental program, then sit the Dental Admissions Test (DAT) before applying to a 4-year dental school. After dental school, they earn a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or a Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry (DMD) degree. Both degrees are identical, representing similar educational pathways. To be a certified dentist, a series of board exams must be completed. Some dentists choose to specialize and complete additional training through residency, which can be from 1 to 6 years.
Office Managers
Behind the scenes of your visit, office managers are overseeing all operations. Their responsibilities include hiring or dismissing staff, organizing staff trainings, and ensuring all patients have a satisfactory experience. Becoming an office manager requires excellent leadership and communication skills to create a welcoming environment for both staff and patients.
Conclusion
A whole dental care team is involved in caring for you and your oral health. Some might help patients more directly than others, but all have a goal to create a supportive environment. From the reception desk to the examination chair, every staff member ensures you leave with a brilliant experience and smile.
