A dentist, also known as a dental surgeon, is a health care professional who specializes in dentistry, the branch of medicine focused on the teeth, gums, and mouth. The dentist's supporting team aids in providing oral health services. The dental team includes dental assistants, dental hygienists, dental technicians, and sometimes dental therapists.
A dentist (seated) treating a patient with the help of an assistant (standing).
A man being treated by a dental team
A modern dental treatment in Lappeenranta, Finland
Dental assistants are members of the dental team. They support a dental operator in providing more efficient dental treatment. Dental assistants are distinguished from other groups of dental auxiliaries by differing training, roles and patient scopes.
Dental assistant on the right supporting a dental operator on the left, during a procedure.
Infection control was very different in historical dentistry when compared to dentistry nowadays in 2018. Dental assistants and dentists did not wear all or if any personal protection equipment when practicing. We can see that the dentist, in this case on the left, is not wearing a mask, gloves or eye protection (apart from his glasses). Additionally, the dental assistant on the right, is also not wearing any gloves, mask or eye protection.
Container for medical sharps and infectious waste - typically found in dental surgeries.
Residential aged care and dental assistants engaging in recreational activities - its not always about teeth.
