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Your Dental Team

When you visit your dentist’s office you’ll meet a team of dental professionals. Get to know the different members of the dental team and how they work together to give you comprehensive care and treatment.
The Dentist
A dentist is a doctor of oral health. Dentists and certified dental specialists are trained, skilled and regulated health care professionals. They are also the leaders of the dental team within a dental office.
Dentists have six to eight years of education. Only a dentist can detect and diagnose dental disease. They also recommend and carry out treatment plans. Dentists can spot the early signs of tooth decay, gum disease and mouth and throat cancers, and even detect signs of other medical conditions, such as diabetes. (Your dentist can also help you understand how your oral health relates to your overall health.) Learn about the different treatments and procedures your dentist can do.
If the treatment you need may be complex, your dentist may refer you to a dental specialist. Dental specialists complete extra training and education in a specific area of dentistry. There are ten recognized dental specialties in Ontario.
All dentists must follow ethical guidelines and professional regulations set out by the Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario, which licenses and regulates dentists in this province.
The Dental Hygienist
A dental hygienist is a regulated health care professional. They work with the dentist to provide care and treatment that helps to prevent gum disease and cavities. Under the direction of the dentist, a dental hygienist will:
Dental hygienists must follow ethical guidelines and professional regulations as set out by the College of Dental Hygienists of Ontario.
The Dental Assistant
The dental assistant facilitates the work of dentists and dental hygienists. They will:
A dentist may direct the dental assistant to perform intra-oral procedures, such as X-rays, depending on the level of certification assistant holds.
For more information, visit the Ontario Dental Assistants Association.
Dental Office Staff
Dental office managers supervise staff, establish and manage office protocols and oversee the processing of insurance claims. Receptionists are likely your first point of contact at the dental office. They will:
Office managers and receptionists may not necessarily have an educational background in dentistry but play a key role in the efficient running of a dental practice.