Chicago Dentist - A Typical Day at the Dentist’s Office

A Typical Day at the Dentist’s Office

The receptionist or administrative assistant is the first person to welcome a patient into the dental office.  The receptionist must have a friendly and pleasant disposition, to make the patient feel very comfortable.  If it is the patient’s first visit, the dental assistant or the receptionist will gather information about the patient, medical history, insurance related information, and other forms which need to be filled out while at the office. 
The hygienist is the next person involved in the patient's day.  The hygienist first takes x-rays of the patient's teeth, and otherwise does an initial examination.  The hygienist may do a cleaning, which includes removing hardened material from all the services of the teeth, cleaning, flossing, and providing a fluoride treatment. 
The patient then meets the dentist, who completes the entire examination.  The Dentist typically engages in talk with the patient to put the patient at ease.  After the dentist looks at the mouth of the patient as well as the additional information collected up to that point, a determination as to treatment is made.  The dentist also checks for indications of gum disease, signs of oral cancers, and the need for orthodontic or alignment therapy.  While the dentist is performing his examination and treatment, the dental assistants assist the dentist and provide the necessary tools for the treatment.