Attending a dentist appointment might be a common occurrence for you but did you ever stop to think about who works in this space? Besides your dentist, a dental office comes together with a variety of people to make your experience an excellent one. Dental work is done through a team effort, so who is helping you with your dental concerns?
Dental Hygienist
What is a dental hygienist?
A dental professional that cleans your teeth and educates you about your oral health.
What are some other tasks a dental hygienist does?
• Takes dental impressions
• Does x-rays
• Polishes your teeth
What kind of schooling does a dental hygienist need?
In Canada, a hygienist must complete a 2-4-year dental hygiene diploma or bachelor program. A hygienist must also be registered or licensed by the dental hygiene regulatory authority in their province.
A hygienist is a huge part of making your teeth shine and your smile bright.
Certified Dental Assistant
What is a dental assistant?
A dental professional that takes down your teeth records and works with the dentist to provide help during an array of procedures. A dental assistant relays the initial screening of your teeth to your dentist so she/he can take a deeper look into your oral cavity.
Dental assistants may do a lot of the same jobs as a hygienist but some of the different tasks they take on are:
• Taking impressions of patient’s teeth
• Sterilizing equipment
• Applying desensitizing agents
What education does a certified dental assistant need?
As a certified dental assistant in Canada, one must graduate from an accredited dental assistant program. An assistant can obtain a certificate, diploma, or associate degree and this can take anywhere from a few months to 2 years.
Some jurisdictions provide the opportunity for dental assistants to take on additional training indirect patient care to do tasks such as removing sutures and provide restorative, preventative, and orthodontic services. A certified dental assistant is an important person at the dentist’s office that helps make your procedure comfortable.
Dental Technologist/Technician
What is a dental technologist/technician?
This is the person responsible for making orthodontic devices, dentures, bridges, and crowns. He/she may also produce specialty items such as mouth guards and implant-related restorations.
The back-end workers of a dentist's office are vital to the positive results you see on your teeth. They are skilled in the manufacturing of the intricate products you need.
What tasks are involved in the work of a dental technologist/technician?
• Researching product appliances, new materials, and techniques
• Storing, handling, and disposing of hazardous materials
• Following written prescriptions from the dentist
What education is required of a dental technologist/technician?
A dental technologist/technician requires a 2-year diploma from a dental technology training school.
This skilled dental worker is trained in all things technology to keep your dental appliances up to date and working for you.
Dental Receptionist
Who is the receptionist?
Often, the first professional you come into contact with at a dentist’s office. This person is the one that provides you with information about your appointment and billing.
What tasks does a dental receptionist take on?
• Booking your appointments
• Cancelling your appointments
• Dealing with your billing
What education does a dental receptionist need?
A high school diploma is the only requirement for many dental offices though some would prefer you to have dental terminology training.
A dental receptionist makes everything run smoothly and is a friendly face at the front of the dentist's office.
Though each province has its own regulations, these are generally the guidelines all of Canada follows. Book your dentist appointment at an office that provides you with outstanding staff to make your experience that much better. Franklin Dental Centre is ready to take you on as a patient!
