Dental assistant

A dental assistant helps with a variety of health care tasks, from taking dental x-rays and caring for patients, to helping file records and appointment scheduling.

Dental therapists clean, scale, floss and polish patients' teeth, while educating them about oral health and hygiene. They will take X-rays and should more intricate dental work or complicated bridgework be required, they will refer patients to qualified practitioners

Oral hygienists typically work in a dental office and perform tasks that include preventive dental care, checking patients for gingivitis and other oral diseases, cleaning teeth, and talking to patients about how they can improve oral health.

Pediatric dentists specialize in treating children’s dental issues. They are trained to deal with the unique physical, emotional and developmental needs of pediatric patients.

Prosthodontists specialize in replacing missing teeth and associated oral structures by determining the type of dental prostheses required, having customized dental prostheses manufactured, and fitting them in patients’ mouths. They also treat temporomandibular disorders and various issues associated with damaged and problematic teeth.

Dental laboratory technicians fabricate and repair fixed and removable dental prostheses and devices according to dentists' instructions. They prepare wax models from dental impressions, construct metal and non-metal dental replacements, and apply finishing touches to dental devices prior to final placement.

Dentists diagnose and treat dental issues and help patients develop better oral hygiene regimens. They clean teeth, correct bite issues, perform surgeries and extractions, and perform other duties to ensure that the teeth and mouth are healthy.

Orthodontists specialize in the diagnosis, prevention, and correction of teeth and jaw irregularities. One of their primary job functions is to design, fabricate, or use orthodontic appliances to realign teeth and jaws in order to allow for normal functioning and to improve appearance.

A periodontist is a dental specialist that diagnoses and treats gum health. Periodontists work with gum conditions and cosmetic treatments. They ensure that patients are cured or protected from gum diseases.