Dentist, General

Dentists examine teeth, gums, and oral tissues to evaluate dental health, diagnose disease or abnormal conditions, note injuries or malformations, and develop appropriate treatment plans. They use sterile dental instruments, xrays, masks and gloves, and safety glasses to accomplish their tasks, protecting themselves and patients from infectious diseases. They may also treat diseases of nerve and oral tissues relating to dental hygiene, tissue health and retention of teeth.They administer anesthetics to limit pain during procedures as they use dental turbines and hand instruments. They may also use dental appliances or surgical instruments. They drill out and fill cavities, perform extractions and oral surgery, and install implants — a high percentage of these procedures are performed by general practiitioners.They perform these complex treatments, and delegate many tasks to dental hygienists or dental assistants, providing oversight. They usually work 40-50 hour weeks, with some evening hours, in offices or clinics. They may work part time late in their career or iinstruct dental students. There is some risk of exposure to infectious disease, noise from drills, and radiation from xrays. Physical and mental fatigue are also relevant factors.They hire and supervise office staff who schedule appointments, aid in recording treatment procedures, handle billing, and storage of dental records.