Regular dental care is important to prevent tooth decay and gum disease. It is recommended to visit the dentist every six months for cleanings, exams, and x-rays. More frequent visits may be necessary if experiencing pain or other issues. Years ago, people didn’t have access to regular dental care, and tooth decay was a much […]
Dental retainers are custom-made appliances that can be removable or fixed in the upper or lower part of the mouth. They are used to reinforce the teeth’s position after braces are removed or to correct minor orthodontic issues. Retainers are essential for long-term success in post-brace care. Dental retainers are a type of orthodontic appliance […]
Continuing education in dental hygiene is important for maintaining professional skills and knowledge of new techniques and practices. Requirements vary by jurisdiction and professional association, but are often necessary for license renewal and membership. Dental hygienists should ensure courses are approved and consult with their employer for specific training needs. The purpose of continuing education […]
Dental gel is a versatile product used for a variety of purposes, including pain relief, disease prevention, and cosmetic purposes. It is often used alongside brushing and flossing to maintain oral hygiene. Fluoride, whitening, and gingivitis gels are commonly used, and most gels are given in trays. Dental gel can also be used to protect […]
Temporary dental employment includes positions such as dentist, hygienist, and dental assistant. These positions offer work experience and benefits similar to permanent employees. Requirements vary by position, with dentists needing accreditation and licensing, hygienists needing certification, and dental assistants having no formal training requirements. Dentist, hygienist and dental assistant are all forms of temporary dental […]
When pursuing a career as a dental assistant, it’s important to understand the education and licensure process, as well as the difference between a dental assistant and a dental hygienist. Online dental assistant classes may only be available for continuing education credits and it’s important to check accreditation before applying. Clinical and laboratory hours are […]
Dental abrasion can refer to wear and tear on teeth caused by hard brushing or the use of objects like toothbrushes. It can also refer to a dental technique called air abrasion that removes small amounts of decay without using a drill. Dental insurance coverage for air abrasion varies. Dental abrasion can be defined in […]
Dental lab technicians create and repair dental equipment such as prosthetic teeth, crowns, bridges, and orthodontic appliances. Jobs can vary from routine to specialized, with employment opportunities in commercial dental labs, dental offices, and hospitals. Specializations include orthodontic technicians, ceramists, denture specialists, and crown or bridge technicians. Most work is done behind the scenes using […]
Plaque is the main cause of dental problems, leading to infection, tooth decay, and tooth loss. Sugar-rich foods contribute to plaque, which can cause gum disease, cavities, tooth abscesses, sensitive teeth, and impacted teeth. Teeth grinding can also cause dental problems. In many dental problems, the biggest culprit is plaque. Plaque is a colorless substance […]
To become a dental technician, complete training, gain hands-on experience, pass certification exams, and provide professional references. Dental technicians create customized bridges, crowns, and dentures. Most employers prefer trained candidates with excellent manual dexterity and attention to detail. Apply for positions by submitting resumes and prepare for interviews by dressing professionally and researching the company. […]
Dental pliers come in different shapes and sizes for different jobs. They have a beak, neck, and handle, and are designed to hold teeth firmly below the gum line. Dental forceps are used in different areas of the mouth and are designed to conform to the shape of a tooth surface. They are swung or […]
A panoramic dental x-ray provides a clear view of all teeth in one image, identifying problems with wisdom teeth and potential dental problems. It uses special film and is not placed in the patient’s mouth. It takes several minutes to complete and produces less radiation than a chest x-ray. It is not needed every year […]
Dental hygiene courses teach students how to clean teeth, identify oral problems, and protect against disease transmission. Topics include periodontics, oral anatomy, infection control, and radiology. Dental hygienists are professionals who remove hardened food particles from teeth and give instructions to patients on how to care for their teeth and gums. Different dental hygiene courses […]
Dental receptionist training can be on-the-job or completed through a vocational school. Courses may include office administration, insurance billing, and clinical skills. Dental assistant training can also provide preparation for a receptionist career. Receptionist training varies based on the type of preparation an employer requires or a receptionist decides to pursue. In some cases, dental […]
Dental biofilm is a colony of microorganisms that can cause gum disease and tooth loss. It cannot be easily treated with antibiotics due to its protective slime layer. Manual removal by a dental hygienist and prevention through regular oral hygiene are the best treatment options. Dental biofilm is the name given to the colonies of […]
Dental nursing jobs involve assisting dentists with procedures and can be found in various settings. In the UK, registration with the General Dental Council is required, while in the US, dental assistants and hygienists have different requirements. Jobs outside of traditional dental offices may be found in institutional or military settings. Dental nursing jobs include […]
Dental curettage, a procedure to remove diseased tissue from the mouth and gums, is now less common and controversial among dentists. Scaling and root planing is a preferred alternative. Patients should ask why curettage is recommended and seek a second opinion. Dental curettage is a procedure in which diseased tissue is removed from the mouth […]
Becoming a dental lab technician requires a high school diploma and attention to detail. Fine motor skills, communication, and independence are key skills. Most labs hire inexperienced technicians and offer on-the-job training. Advancement opportunities exist, and certification and education can help career growth. There are relatively few requirements to become a dental lab technician: you […]
A certified dental technician creates dental devices such as bridges and crowns. Certification is not required by law, but many employers prefer certified technicians who have completed educational and experience requirements and passed exams. A certified dental technician is a person who has received certification as a dental technician. An individual in this field works […]
A dental PPO is a dental insurance plan that requires patients to use dentists within the provider network for the best price, but also offers reduced coverage for out-of-network dentists. It differs from a dental HMO in terms of safety, referrals, and coverage. Plans can range from basic to comprehensive, with benefits including lower deductibles […]
