Visiting the dentist twice a year, every year, is a necessity. Which is good news employment-wise as every human on the planet has teeth. No matter what position you hold in the practice, you will be part of a dynamic team. This team has one goal – to allay any fears the client may have, and to help them have white, strong, and healthy teeth forever.
Here are 10 careers you can have in the field of Dentistry.
Because every member of the team, interacts with the public at some point, soft skills are vital – especially patience, empathy, and good communication. Administration skills are also needed. The trainings listed here are based on New Zealand requirements.
- The Practice Manager – Leading the Team
- This is a career pathway for Dental Assistants and Dental Receptionists. Management skills or qualifications are required as well as an in-depth knowledge of the Dental Industry
- The Receptionist – Dental practice reception work.
- Total study – Each dental practice will have its own experience and educational requirements. Knowledge of dental procedures and terminology will be an asset. Previous experience as a Dental Assistant is usually a requirement.
- The Dental Hygienist – Providing preventive dental care, teeth whitening services, and oral hygiene education.
- Total Study – 2 – 5 years. A DCNZ Dental Hygiene certificate or diploma. Or a Bachelor of Health Science (Endorsement in Dental Hygiene) degree.
- The Dental Assistant – Preparing the procedure room, tools, and client for the scheduled examination or procedure. Assisting the dentist during the procedure.
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Dental Assistants are usually trained on the job, this can take up to 2 months being supervised by an experienced assistant. Once working a Certificate in Dental Assisting qualification can be gained through the NZ Dental Association. This course takes 9 months and is completed while you work supported by a Dentist.
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- The Dentist – Of all the professions within dentistry, only the dentists can open a practice on their own. Once qualified as a Dentist you could chose to continue with study and specialise in one of the following areas:
- Dentist – General dentistry. Total study – 5 years. Health Sciences First Year and a Bachelor of Dental Surgery degree.
- Periodontist – Specialises in gum health and care. Total study – 8 years. The same as the dentist and a DClinDent in Periodontics.
- Endodontist – Specializes in oral preventative care including root canals, treat decay and tooth implants. Total study – 8 years. The same as the dentist and a DClinDent in Endodontics.
- Orthodontist – Specializes in straightening teeth and jaws. Total Study – 5 years and 2 years related work experience. The same as the dentist and a Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) plus two years basic dental practise.
- Prosthodontist – Specialising in treating and replacing missing teeth. Total Study – 8 years. The same as the dentist and a prosthodontist education or residency.
- Oral And Maxillofacial Surgeon – Specialising in the diagnosis and treatment of disorders affecting the facial complex and skeleton, including the jaws and oral cavity. Total Study – 11+ years. The same as the dentist, full registration as a dentist, a medical degree and full registration as a medical practitioner, a full year of surgery in general (SIG) rotations with a minimum of 9 months in related surgical disciplines.
Contact us on 0508 TEAM DENTAL if you have any questions about whether or not a career in dentistry is right for you.