A Dental Assistant’s job is to help the dentist perform efficient and safe dental procedures while they examine and treat patients. They are also in charge of cleaning and sterilizing dental instruments and preparing patients for the dentist.

Dental Ceramicist are also know as Dental Technicians.

A Dental Hygienist / Oral Hygienist (in a nutshell) cleans teeth and gums and promotes general oral health care. They perform non-invasive dental procedures to prevent cavities and tooth decay. They usually work alongside or in collaboration with dentists.

A Dental Specialist is a dentist who has specialised in a particular dental field. For example: Community Dentistry Specialist, Dental / Oral Surgeon, Endodontist, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon, Oral Pathologist, Orthodontist, Paedodontist, Periodontist, Prosthodontist and Stomatologist etc.

Dental Technicians can also be called Dental Ceramists. They are qualified people who make and repair dental items such as dentures, bridges, crowns, fillings, braces and other orthodontic correctional devices. Dental Technicians follow prescriptive directions from a dentist and do not deal with patients directly.

A Dental Therapist offers basic dental services and preventative dentistry. They would refer more complicated procedures and treatments to a dentist. Dental Therapists may not practise independently unless they have practised for at least one year under the control and supervision of a qualified dentist.

Dentists examine, diagnose and treat gum disease and injuries. In some cases they will fit dental appliances and provide on-going preventative care.