Careers in the Dental Industry
Everyone assumes that a person who goes to dental school becomes a general dentist; however, this is far from the case. As a leading dental college in Fort Collins and Longmont, IBMC College prepares students for careers in the dental industry including Dental Assisting and Dental Office Administration. When looking for a healthcare college in northern Colorado, IBMC College should be at the top of the list because we place an emphasis on hands-on learning.
What’s the difference between dental professions?
General Dentist
The equivalent of a primary care physician and a general dentist is that the person is one we tend to see on a semi-annual basis. In this role, the dentist will perform preventative health measures like teeth cleaning, fluoride treatments and cavity fillings.
Cosmetic Dentist
Unlike a general practitioner who is considered with the overall health of their patient’s teeth, a cosmetic dentist is tasked with improving the appearance of a person’s teeth. Many cosmetic dentists are also generalists and perform tasks like teeth whitening, bonding and veneers.
Orthodontist
An orthodontist specializes in straightening a person’s teeth and jaw alignment of the mouth. Typically, an orthodontist will correct crooked teeth or an overbite through braces or retainers. Although an orthodontist primarily works with younger patients, people of all ages may seek out their services.
Dental Assistant and Dental Hygienist
While a Dental Assistant does not have the authority or qualifications to perform a full cleaning, they do assist the dentist in a number of tasks. Conversely, a dental hygienist is able to spot cavities and clean a person’s teeth; however, it must be done under the supervision of a dentist.
Administrative Careers
A receptionist at the dentist’s office is much more than what their title implies. Typically, a Dental Office Administrator is responsible for interacting with insurance companies on behalf of patients, handling billing issues and answering questions from patients. IBMCC College offers a degree in Dental Administration that can be obtained in as little as 19 months, when following the prescribed coursework.
