1. Dentistry and Dental Specialties

2. The dental team is composed of the dentist, dental hygienist, dental assistant, and lab technician

3. Dentists - have about 8 years of education after hight school. This includes 4 years of undergraduate studies (bachelor's degree) and 4 years of dental school. Dentists can recieve a D.D.S. degree or a D.M.D. degree. Dentists diagnose and treat disease of the teeth, gums and jaw. They work to restore damaged teeth, replace missing teeth, and educate clients about their dental health and hygiene. Some dentists will specialize in orgal surgery, orthodontics, pediatrics, periodontics, or prosthodontics.

4. The dental assistant typically has 1-2 years of training. Dental assistants provide clients with instructions for pre- and post- surgery. They can make impressions of teeth for the lab technicians, make dental appliances, assist the dentist in procedures, sterilize equipment, and manage the office.

5. The Dental Hygienist typically has 2-4 years of college and are licensed in the state in which they practice. Dental Hygienists expose and process x-rays, instruct clients in oral hygiene techniques, remove calculus and plaque through cleaning procedures, and apply flouride and sealants to teeth to protect them.

6. Dental Laboratory Technicians are typically trained on the job. There are some programs available through vocational schools and community colleges. Dental Lab techs create dental prostheses and dental appliances based on instructions from the dentist and molds taken from the client's teeth. The appliances can include dentures, crowns, bridges, veneers, and orthodontic appliances (such as retainers).

7. Teeth are identified on a universal numbering system. If a dentist charts that toothe numer 8 needs repair, can you tell on the model which tooth needs repair?? Anatomical position still applies ;)

8. Use your Blue Healthcare Science and Technology book to complete the Dental Terminology assignment on InSites.