Dental clinics are dedicated to providing patient education to prevent disease and offering treatment options for the same procedures available in general and specialty offices. A clinic is a single room that houses all the necessary dental equipment and tools, and is staffed by dentists, dental specialists, dental assistants, and dental hygienists. At a dental clinic, patients can access free or low-cost treatments. Dental assistants are responsible for a variety of administrative tasks, such as office management, scheduling appointments, and working with suppliers.
Dental hygienists also have administrative duties, including updating patient records and scheduling the next patient appointment. The clinic will work with patients to develop a treatment plan that meets their immediate needs. They provide preventive, diagnostic, emergency, and restorative oral health care to adults and children who don't have insurance. In rural areas, existing dental clinics may be used when implementing this model, or new clinics may be built or opened within an existing local medical center.
Working in a dental office involves more than just treating patients in pain or providing preventive care. Gordon's dental office is an example of this type of establishment, with several employees and departments. In addition to services, dental clinics can offer patient education on oral hygiene, personal care, and maintaining well-being. Portable clinical events are also attended by dental professionals and doctors, as well as community volunteers.
An efficient team of dentists, dental assistants, dental hygienists, receptionists, and laboratory technicians keeps everyone up to date, patients happy, and the office running smoothly. The clinic also addresses administrative and financial concerns. Dental assistants help dentists with basic tasks such as impressions and handling equipment during procedures. Rural clinics can also offer services for pregnant women and mothers with babies such as information on newborn hygiene and bottle feeding, dental product samples, dental wipes, and treatment programs. People over the age of 65 often suffer from one or more chronic medical conditions that must be taken into consideration before starting any dental treatment.
The need for quality preventive dental care in the Washington DC community is widespread and largely unmet.
