Dentistry Careers
There are several career areas for dental professionals, depends upon their educational necessities; some require certification and licensure. Dentistry is a unique profession in that there are so many avenues of oral health to explore.
The dental professions offer a range of career opportunities and experiences:
1-Dentists
Dentists enjoy a sole, miscellaneous, technology-driven profession with several areas of service and expertise:
· disease detection
· diagnosis & treatment
· esthetic improvement
· surgical restoration
· public education
· prevention
Education/Licensing Requirements: Undergraduate education and four years of dental school; additional education for dental specialties.
2-Hygienists
Dental hygienists are an vital part of the dental care team. Duties include taking the patient's history, cleaning teeth, taking and developing dental x-rays, placing sealants and fluorides, teaching patients how to brush and floss properly, educating the patient on how nutrition is important to good dental health, and more. There are good job opportunities on a full or part-time basis in dental hygiene.
Education/Licensing Requirements: Completion of a dental hyg
3-Expanded Function Dental Auxiliary (EFDA)
Expanded function dental auxiliary (EFDA) is a person that can perform the same tasks as the dental assistant, plus place restorations and sealants, working under supervision and full responsibility of a licensed dentist.
Education/Licensing Requirements: To qualify as an EFDA, an individual must pass the Ohio State Dental Board designated examination for expanded function dental auxiliaries.
4-Certified Dental Assistant (CDA)
Certified Dental Assistants can receive on-the-job training, and a minimum of a high school diploma is required. However, better opportunities may exist with a college certificate or two-year degree.
Education/Licensing Requirements: Dental assistants who take x-rays must hold a permit to do so from the Ohio State Dental Board. Individuals may also become Certified Dental Assistants (CDAs) by meeting certain criteria and passing an exam.
5-Dental Assistant
Dental assistant tasks can include taking and developing of dental x-rays, taking patient blood pressure and pulse, patient comfort, demonstrating good oral hygiene techniques, taking impressions, providing the patient with follow-up instructions after surgery or other oral procedure, and infection control. The dental assistant may also help the dentist with examinations and fillings. There are excellent employment possibilities in this field.
6-Dental Lab Technician
Dental lab technicians are the behind-the-scenes members of a dental team, functioning from the dental laboratory making full and partial dentures from impressions taken at the dentist's office. They also create crowns and veneers, orthodontic appliances and splints. The lab technician works with a wide range of resources and high-tech apparatus and instruments.
All the Best...!
