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Questions and Answers
What psychological benefit does an open bay design provide in pediatric dentistry?
Under what circumstance would a dental hygienist refer a patient to an orthodontist?
What distinguishes the practice of endodontics from oral surgery?
When should a patient be referred to a periodontist?
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What is the primary difference between dental hygienists and dental assistants?
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What is the primary procedure that endodontists perform regularly?
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At what age does a pedodontist typically stop treating patients?
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What does a periodontist specialize in?
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How long does it take to become an oral surgeon?
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Which of the following specialists deals primarily with the restoration and replacement of natural teeth?
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Study Notes
General Dentistry
- Every specialty dentist starts as a general dentist.
- General dentists refer patients to specialists like pedodontists for extensive work or specific age-related care.
Specialty Dentistry
- An endodontist specializes in saving teeth, primarily through root canal procedures.
- A pedodontist (pediatric dentist) typically treats patients up to the age of 18-21.
- Oral surgeons conduct procedures such as extractions, implants, and biopsies.
- Periodontists focus on gum disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.
- Prosthodontists restore and replace teeth using crowns, bridges, and dentures.
Dental Education
- Dental assistants in Virginia require no formal college education.
- A dental hygiene program at a community college leads to licensure, while a four-year program grants a bachelor's degree and allows for teaching.
- Becoming an oral surgeon requires 12-14 years of education.
Clinical Practices
- Dental public health professionals develop policies for disease prevention and community education.
- Pediatric dental practices often feature an open bay operatory design to reduce patient anxiety, leveraging peer reassurance.
Referrals and Responsibilities
- Dental hygienists refer patients to orthodontists when malocclusion is diagnosed by a dentist.
- Hygienists perform cleanings, while assistants support restorative procedures.
Professional Certification
- The Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) certifies dental assistants.
- Oral Maxillofacial Surgeons and Dental Anesthesiologists are among the highest-paid dental specialties.
Treatment Guidelines
- If significant root exposure, attachment loss, or furcation involvement occurs, patients should be referred to a periodontist.
- Patients with braces still need regular examinations and cleanings from their general dentist or hygienist.
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Description
Test your knowledge about various dental specialties and their roles in patient care. This quiz covers facts about general dentists, endodontists, pedodontists, and oral surgeons. Perfect for dental students or anyone interested in the field of dentistry!
