Typical Tasks
Administer anesthetics to limit the amount of pain experienced by patients during procedures.
Examine teeth, gums, and related tissues, using dental instruments, x-rays, or other diagnostic equipment, to evaluate dental health, diagnose diseases or abnormalities, and plan appropriate treatments.
Use masks, gloves, and safety glasses to protect patients and self from infectious diseases.
Advise or instruct patients regarding preventive dental care, the causes and treatment of dental problems, or oral health care services.
Analyze or evaluate dental needs to determine changes or trends in patterns of dental disease.
A day in the life
What kind of work is this?
Investigative
Studying, Research based work
Realistic
Practical, Physical Work
Social
Working with people
What personality traits do you need to succeed?
Attention to Detail
Integrity
Dependability
Concern for Others
Self-Control
Stress Tolerance
What key skills are needed for this job?
Critical Thinking
Judgment and Decision Making
Complex Problem Solving
Reading Comprehension
Active Listening
Speaking
Expected Knowledge
Medicine and Dentistry
Knowledge of the information and techniques needed to diagnose and treat human injuries, diseases, and deformities. This includes symptoms, treatment alternatives, drug properties and interactions, and preventive health-care measures.
Customer and Personal Service
Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.
English Language
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
Common Activities
Getting Information
Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
Performing for or Working Directly with the Public
Performing for people or dealing directly with the public. This includes serving customers in restaurants and stores, and receiving clients or guests.
Assisting and Caring for Others
Providing personal assistance, medical attention, emotional support, or other personal care to others such as coworkers, customers, or patients.
