Dentist Duties & Responsibilities

The role and function of a Dentist includes the following duties and responsibilities:

Examine patients’ medical records
Prepare patients for treatment (e.g. by applying oral sedation or anesthesia)
Check teeth, gums and other parts of the mouth, along with X-rays and tests, to diagnose dental problems
Clean teeth and remove plaque
Identify tooth decay and replace cavities with fillings
Prescribe medication as needed
Educate patients on proper brushing techniques, flossing and fluoride use
Promote good oral health and preventive dental care (e.g. by scheduling regular check-ups)
Design and fit dental prosthetics, such as bridges, crowns and dentures
Apply teeth-whitening treatments
Conduct tooth extractions and root canal procedures
Perform surgeries on diseased tissues and bones

Note that this is not an exhaustive list of Dentist duties and responsibilities. Job functions for specific Dentist roles may vary, depending on the industry and type of employer.

Share on