Choosing a career in dentistry

As more techniques and treatments become available and the awareness and demand around dentistry increases, the range of jobs and the demand for those jobs are rapidly increasing. The opportunities within dental recruitment are diverse and plentiful. Dentistry offers many different career options suitable for a variety of educational and professional levels.

Dentist

The most obvious role is the dentist, this person will be responsible for managing and leading the dental care team, they are likely to be the first person to diagnose the problem and recommend the most suitable treatment; surgical procedures will be in the hands of the dentist as well as giving patient advice, cleanings and general dental health care prevention and maintenance.

Dental Assistant

The dental assistant will work alongside the dentist and will help them by insuring patients are looked after during all procedures and supporting the work that is carried out by the dentist, they are not qualified to do full cleanings or identify problems.

Dental Hygienist

The dental hygienist is primary concerned with the health and care of a patients teeth, they are likely to provide advice and services to prevent tooth decay, gum disease and other problems, by educating patients on good oral health, this is likely to be under the supervision of a licensed dentist.

Dental Therapist

A dental therapist is likely to carry out the more simple treatments such as non-complicated fillings, often patients will include older patients and children, and they too will offer advice on good oral health.

Dental Technician

A dental technician is the person behind the scenes who manufactures and crafts a range of products for use by the dentists for patients. This includes things like dentures, crowns, bridges and braces, and demands a high level of skill and attention to detail.

Cosmetic Dentists

Cosmetic dentists are primarily concerned with improving appearance then improving the patient’s oral health, such treatments include teeth whitening and veneers.

Oral Surgeon

An oral surgeon provides surgical care for the teeth, jaws, and facial bones. Patients are typically referred to an oral surgeon by a general dentist or other healthcare professional that may identify the need for oral surgery.

Orthodontists

Orthodontists specialise in the jaw alignment and the positioning of teeth, they utilize a variety of methods to help straighten and realign crooked or misaligned teeth. Braces, retainers, and other devices help correct and straighten patients’ teeth.

For more information on courses and training opportunities or recruitment services to help with your job search visit Tempdent.