And you are…?

Think visiting the dentist means you’ll only see one person? It’s time to meet your entire oral health care team!
Jul 19, 2009 | By: The Health Local Staff

When it comes to taking care of your mouth, you might think your dentist is the beginning and end of oral health care. But the truth is that when you visit the dentist, you’ll meet with an entire team of health care professionals who all care about the same thing: Keeping your mouth healthy.

Want to know who makes up that team? Here’s a “who’s who” of all the people who work in your dentist’s office:

The dentist

Your dentist is the primary oral health specialist, and the one who knows how the health of your teeth, gums and mouth relates to your general health. It’s up to your dentist to examine and diagnose any conditions, make recommendations for treatment and inform you of the general oral health care (or post-operative care) you need.

The dental hygienist

You might often associate the dental hygienist with the person who scrapes and cleans your teeth during your regular check-up. You’re right – that’s exactly what a hygienist is registered and certified to do. The hygienist also works with the dentist to help prevent disease and can help you learn how to care for your teeth and gums at home. The hygienist can also do a basic exam and x-ray, when necessary.

The dental assistant

Many offices have a dental assistant who helps the dentist during examination and treatment procedures. Often, that assistant is the one who will prep you for treatment, then will pass instruments and materials to the dentist during a treatment. He or she may even make dental impressions or apply fluoride to your teeth.

The dental office staff

They’re often the first people you see when you arrive at the dentist: The dental office staff. They are the ones who book and schedule appointments, take care of billings and payments, manage the flow of patients and are responsible for the day-to-day running of the office.