Guide to Dental Offices
the Dental Team
... Who Does What
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 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)
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)
The receptionist generally greets you at the office, makes your appointments, takes insurance information and serves as an information source for any questions you have about the office, such as special hours or polices.
The Dental Professional
Most patients are familiar with the general dentist. The general dentist is educated to provide comprehensive services from dental examinations to dental surgery.
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.
The American and California Dental Associations (ADA and CDA) recognize these nine types of specialist:
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.
Prescribes and places corrective devices, such as braces, to align teeth and improve health and appearance.
Specializes in the dental health of children from birth through adolescence.
Treats diseases of the gums.
Designs and fits bridge-work and dentures.
Coordinates and administers community-wide dental care programs, including public education on the prevention of dental disease.
- Oral And Maxillofacial Radiologist
Uses imaging and associated technology for diagnosis and management of a range of diseases affecting the mouth, jaw, and related area of the head and neck.
Researches the causes, development and effects of oral diseases.
Page content used with permission of SCCDS | 
