While
most dental procedures can be provided by the general dentist, a patient
may be referred to a specialist if the general dentist feels special expertise
is necessary. We recognize these eight types of specialist:
Endodontist:
Deals
with the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of disease and injuries of
the internal soft tissue of the tooth (root canals).
Oral
And Maxillofacial Surgeon:
Treats
injuries and deformities, extracts teeth and performs surgery of the mouth,
jaw and face.
Orthodontist:
Prescribes
and places corrective devices, such as braces, to align teeth and improve
health and appearance.
Pediatric
Dentist:
Specializes
in the dental health of children from birth to adolescence.
Periodontist:
Treats
diseases of the gums.
Prosthodontist:
Designs
and fits bridge-work and dentures.
Public
Health Specialist:
Coordinates
and administers community wide dental care programs, including public education
on the prevention of dental disease.
Oral
Pathologist:
Researches
the causes, development and effects of oral diseases.
Other
Members Of the Dental TeamPractice/Office Manager
A
very important member of the Dental Team is the Office manager. In a small
office, a well trained front office manager is responsible for the running
of the office. He or she is the liaison between the dentist, the
patient, and the insurance companies.
The
dentist is responsible and accountable for everything that goes on
in the dental office. Only the licensed dentist is educated and trained
to diagnose dental problems, plan treatment or prescribe medication.
As
long as the licensed dentist supervises, certain phases of dental treatment
may be delegated to other members of the dental team.
The
Dental Hygienist:
The
dental hygienist cleans teeth and performs other functions under the direction
and supervision of a licensed dentist.
There
are two categories of dental hygienist:
1.
Registered Dental Hygienist (RDH)
2.
Registered Dental Hygienist in Extended Functions (RDHEF)
The
Dental Assistant:
Under
the supervision of the licensed dentist, the job of the dental assistant
is to help the dentist at chairside, take x-rays, and perform other support
functions.
There
are three categories of dental assistant:
1.
Dental Assistant (DA)
2.
Registered Dental Assistant (RDA)
3.
Registered Dental Assistant in Extended Functions (RDAEF) |
