Cosmetic Dentistry Career

   Dentistry in the 21st century is a rapidly expanding profession undergoing profound changes, with a perpetual influx of new technology combined with changing patient needs and expectations. This has created a tremendous demand for professionally trained dental assistants, technicians and hygienists in all areas, including cosmetic dentistry (also known as esthetic dentistry). More and more people are choosing to undergo cosmetic dental procedures, because it's clear that having a great smile and healthy teeth can dramatically improve your self-esteem, social relationships, and even your career options. To meet this need, busy cosmetic dentists rely - and depend - on the work of trained, certified dental assistants.

Dental assistants have come a long way from just scheduling appointments and putting on a patient bib. Certification training of dental assistants has become a necessity as technology changes the face of dentistry. Dental assistants who are credentialed and certified have more power to negotiate an equitable salary, stay in the field longer, and earn more than those who lack certification. Whether certified by their state board of dental registration, the Dental Assistant National Board, or some other registered certifying body, dental assistants are enjoying an increased demand for their services in a variety of emerging specialized areas, including cosmetic dentistry.

Dental assistants keep the dental practice running smoothly. In a typical day, the assistant may do everything from greeting patients and preparing them for dental procedures, assisting the dentist during the procedures, and even handling billing and/or insurance. Educational requirements can be completed at many community colleges in one year, and certification is handled by the Cental Assisting National Board (DANB). Certification may be earned in one or more areas including: Certified Dental Assistant, Certified Orthodontic Assistant, and Certified Dental Practice Management Administrator. Some states (CA, MI, MN, NJ) require a state-specific credential to be certified as a Registered Dental Assistant. More information is available from the DANB website, (http://www.dentalassisting.com/)

Dental hygienists help prevent tooth decay and maintain healthy gums by cleaning teeth to remove tartar, stains, and plaque. Hygienists perform screenings to review a patient's health history and chart the condition of their teeth; apply fluoride to prevent tooth decay; and teach proper brushing and flossing techniques. To be licensed in their state, hygienists must complete either a two-year certification program or earn a bachelor's degree, then pass a qualifying exam. Hygienists work in a wide variety of settings and have a number of work schedule options, with both full-time and part-time employment available. For more information, see the American Dental Hygienist's Association (ADHA) website: (http://www.adha.org/)

Dental technicians work in labs where they make and repair dental appliances, including dentures, inlays and onlays, bridges, crowns and braces. Following the dentist's prescription, technicians create appliances using wax, plasters, ceramics and plastics from impressions taken of a patient's mouth or teeth. Most technicians learn their craft on the job, while others attend a formal training program that leads to an associate's degree in applied science. In addition, some schools offer a four-year bachelor's program in dental technology. The work is delicate and requires careful attention to detail, and the demand for certified dental technicians is expected to rise. Information can be found on the website of the National Association of Dental Laboratories (NADL), (http://www.nadl.org/)