Office Roles

Dental receptionists are administrative workers who primarily focus on communication. They often answer phones and take messages for dental providers. In the office, they may also greet patients and direct them to fill out paperwork.

Some practices also have administrative assistants working with dental providers. Dental office administrative assistants generally are responsible for communication and office tasks for specific providers. They may also help with organizing patient files, data entry, and other essential administrative tasks.

Most dental practices have an office manager who supervises the administrative staff and tasks for the entire practice. This key position may also be responsible for recruiting staff, hiring team members, and training new employees.

Patients who require follow-up care, whether it is a crown, bridge, or other dental procedure, are often taken to a treatment coordinator. Treatment coordinators in a dental office create a patient's treatment plan, present it to the patient, and then get their consent to move forward.

They are often very well-versed in dental insurance and the various plans and coverage. 

They may help patients in communicating with their insurance provider and can inform them of open enrollment periods. Treatment coordinators are also able to communicate the importance and value of a treatment plan to the patient.

Another staff member that patients may communicate with in a dental office is the billing specialist. As part of the front-office team, this role manages billing matters for dental treatments. They are generally the person for which patients can speak with about treatment options and payment plans.

Billing specialists may be responsible for taking payments from patients, forwarding paperwork to the insurance company, and calling patients who have past-due balances. When there is a need for extensive dental treatment, the billing coordinator helps price out the treatment plan.

To become a dental hygienist, a person will need to attend an accredited dental hygiene program. These programs are typically about three years long until the graduates receive an Associate's degree. Bachelor's and master's degree programs are also available to dental hygienists. Students take classes ranging from medical ethics to pathology as well as spend time in the patient care setting.

Every state requires dental hygienists to have a license. This often requires a degree from an accredited dental hygiene program and passing grades on written and clinical exams. To maintain that license, dental hygienists must take continuing education classes.

During routine exams and cleanings, dental hygienists may also assist the dentist with patient screenings for some conditions. They may assess the patient's oral health and use the periodontal chart to evaluate the patient's potential for gum disease. They may also inquire about any other health issues or chronic conditions for the patient.

Some dental hygienists may also perform cancer screenings during the examination, such as oral cancer. These dental professionals also examine the head, jaw, and neck to spot potential problems. Dental hygienists also may take X-rays of the teeth and mouth to determine if there are cavities or other oral issues.

Another aspect of a dental hygienist's job is to counsel patients and provide advice for optimal oral health. They may educate patients about the importance of proper brushing and flossing and provide suggestions for oral hygiene techniques. Dental hygienists also may offer recommendations for different types of toothbrushes and flossing products.

Proper oral care at the dentist also requires documentation of treatment and the condition of the patient's mouth and teeth. The dental hygienist works with Alexandria Old Town Dental to document the condition of the gums, teeth, and screening results. Effective record-keeping helps providers monitor possible problem areas.

One part of a dental hygienist's job that is equally important to screening, counseling, and cleaning is the documentation of patient care and treatment. They are instrumental in creating and maintaining a patient's dental record and will document everything that is discussed and performed during their visit. A dental record includes personal information, along with medical and dental histories.

Dental records help the office deliver quality patient care and follow-up. They are also considered legally binding medical documents. Today, most dental records are kept electronically and can be sent to future health practitioners or specialists.

Some dental practices are small standalone clinics. Others are a sprawling clinic with several locations. Before choosing a new provider, take some time to understand the differences between various dental practices. A single provider often establishes private dental practices. The dentist may employ an office manager and dental hygienist as well. Larger clinics may feature several dentists and trained team members. At these locations, many dental providers work together.

Some general dental practices may offer specialized services. These practices typically provide orthodontic care, wisdom tooth removal, or cosmetic treatments. Team members must receive specialized training before they can offer these services. Patients who are unsure what services they may need can look to a general dentist for help. General dentists can provide referrals for oral surgery and other complex procedures. Insurance providers can assist, too. They can determine which local dentists are in-network and accepting new patients.

In the past, most dental practices were staffed with only a single dentist and their team, such as their dental hygienist, dental assistant, among others. In recent years, however, many dental practices have taken on multiple dental providers across different specialties. This often allows for a more streamlined patient experience, saving time, energy, and sometimes even money that the patient may have spent going from office to office.

They also frequently make it easier for families to receive the care they need by way of having multiple specialists at the same practice. For example, a small child may be treated by a pediatrician while their teenage sibling is simultaneously getting treated by an orthodontist. Multi-provider dental practices also allow for a continuity of care across one's lifetime.

Before selecting a new dental practice, patients should consider their needs and preferences. Many patients prefer to receive care from a certain gender. Others may want a dentist with several decades of experience. Make sure a prospective provider meets these needs.

With large practices, there is no guarantee that you will always see the same provider. Patients may be shuffled between each dentist at the practice. Some patients do not mind this arrangement, but for patients who prefer to work with a single provider, this might be a deal-breaker.

While making a choice, consider whether a family dental provider might come in handy. Patients with young children may want to choose a provider who treats pediatric concerns. Ask about orthodontic care and other specialized services, too. Not every provider is equipped to treat specialized dental concerns. But with a little research, patients may be able to arrange a "one-stop-shop" for their family dental needs. Choosing a centralized provider can save time and cut down on travel.

Most people will require several different dental services throughout their lifetime. Examples of various dental services include emergency dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, orthodontic services, routine care and checkups, and more. Emergency dentistry can address accidents such as bitten tongue or lip, broken jaw, cracked teeth, knocked-out teeth, and objects stuck in the mouth.

Cosmetic dentistry has to do with the aesthetic concerns of the smile. Such services may include dental bonding, bridges, crowns, implants, veneers, inlays and onlays, and teeth whitening. Finally, everyone requires routine checkups and cleanings at least once or twice a year. Once patients have determined which of these dental services they need, they can narrow down their search by what each dentist offers.

Dental centers have different dental specialists practicing in the same clinic. This approach can provide additional insight into dental issues, save time, and potentially be more cost-effective. Difficult aesthetic and functional dental problems typically involve several dentistry fields. Receiving treatment at a dental center that offers various services can streamline this process. Additionally, patients with complex medical issues can benefit from a specialized dental team trained on how a patient's medical condition can affect their dental health.

Often, dental centers can have several dentists covering one area. Patients who do not mind seeing a different dentist every appointment may want to consider a dental center. A dental center also has the advantage of being able to offer newer technology to its patients, which can be cost-prohibitive for a smaller dental office. Another advantage of dental centers is the increased ability to treat patients with special needs, including patients with hearing issues or developmental or physical disabilities.

Having family services in one location can prevent the need for multiple dental facilities for each family member's oral health needs. Dental centers can provide services to all members of the family, regardless of age. Since dental centers offer a wider range of treatment options, families with children, teens, and adults can receive the dental care they need.

Dental history can also be hard to track when a family uses multiple providers at different locations. A dental center can make it easier to monitor each patient and keep track of dental records. Having family services at one location allows families to save time and reduce the stress of traveling to different places.

Because they hire different specialists, dental centers can offer many different types of dental services. These may range from cosmetic dentistry to preventative dentistry and anything in between. As a result, they may be able to manage needs that a general dentist would need to refer patients out for. By allowing the patient to take care of all their needs in one place, dental centers may save the patient valuable time, money, and energy.

Every dental center offers its own unique set of services. For example, one particular dental center may be able to provide patients with the routine checkups and cleanings they need while also straightening their teeth, treating gum disease, whitening their smiles, and more. Patients interested in learning more about our services should call our office to see if we are the right match for them.

Most dentists treat patients during normal business hours, Monday through Friday, with perhaps a few evening or weekend hours. A dental center can offer more non-traditional appointment hours since several dentists work together to cover patient appointments. This can be a significant help to busy people or families who do not have a lot of extra time to spare.

Not only can a dental center offer expanded hours, but it is also better equipped to handle emergency patients. The same dental team can treat patients in emergencies and have access to all the necessary patient records at a dental center. This can make a stressful emergency much more manageable for both patients and their families.

It is easy to find a dentist. However, finding the right dentist takes a little more work. From websites to social media, there are several ways to make the search process a little easier. When looking for a new dentist, you need more than a place to get your teeth cleaned. You are looking for a member of your total health care team, so it is essential to do the necessary research before making a decision.

According to the American Dental Association, regular dental visits are integral to one's overall health. Most people need to visit the general dentist at least once or twice a year. However, these numbers may vary according to each patient's unique needs. Patients should think of regular dental visits as an essential part of preventative care — enabling dentists to catch problems before they have the chance to occur.

As such, it is crucial for patients to choose a dentist they can trust and rely on. When looking for a general dentist, patients should consider whether or not the practice is nearby and offers appointments at a convenient time. Other questions people should consider when choosing a dentist include ones about cleanliness, competency, and care quality.

The right dentist can put you on the fast track to good oral and overall health. However, finding a dentist can be a difficult and intimidating endeavor. There are lots of factors to consider in your decision-making process. You can find a dentist at Alexandria Old Town Dental. We are proud to serve Alexandria and the surrounding area. Whether you have general oral health needs or require a referral, we can help.

Before one begins their search, they must first know what they are looking for. While all dentists can perform regular checkups and cleanings, each dentist has their own unique set of skills. In other words, they should consider the type of dentistry that will best suit their needs. Patients looking to correct misaligned teeth, for example, should search for dentists who offer braces.

A general dentist can help patients get started on their search. In addition to performing routine checkups, cleanings, and other standard oral healthcare services, our team can refer out any patients who require specialized care. Do not hesitate to find the quality dental care you deserve.

Since dental health is an important aspect of overall health, it is crucial to find a dentist who is the right fit. Finding the right dentist gives people a comfortable place to receive routine check-ups and a safe and trusted place to turn for a procedure or dental emergency. Look for a practice that is clean, comfortable, and relaxing. The dental team should be friendly and reassuring from the moment each patient walks through the door. Many patients are nervous about visiting the dentist. The right provider understands dental anxiety and knows how to combat nervousness.

People should also consider their preferences and needs when looking for the right dentist. Some patients may have a strong preference for a male or female dentist. Larger dental practices often employ several dentists who may rotate their duties. Patients who opt for a larger practice may discover that they can not choose their dentist. Patients who prefer working with one dentist may choose a solo practice instead. A smaller dental team can ensure that a patient sees the same provider during each visit.

Patients must know what they are looking for before they begin their search. Though any kind of dentist can offer regular checkups and cleanings, different dentists have their own unique set of skills. As such, patients should consider the type of dentistry that will best suit their needs. Patients looking to straighten their teeth, for example, should look for someone who offers orthodontic services.

Other important factors to take into consideration include the proximity of the office, the friendliness of the staff, and the convenience of the office hours. Many patients feel more comfortable knowing that their dentist is close by, especially in case of emergency. Once one has all these factors in mind, they can then begin their search.

A majority of internet users use online reviews when choosing to work with local businesses. Reviews on sites such as Yelp and Google Reviews can provide helpful insight into whether a dentist is the right fit. These sites collect feedback from current or former patients. While this information can be useful, it may not always be accurate.

This information is not enough when looking for a new dentist. It is beneficial to look at reviews on multiple websites. While online reviews can be a great starting point when searching for a dentist, the information is not comprehensive. People should make sure to conduct additional research beyond just reading online reviews.

Review sites like Yelp, Zocdoc, OpenCare, Healthgrades, and Google Business can all be useful in the process of finding a dentist. However, it is essential to know how to use and navigate these sites successfully. It is not uncommon to find false reviews, and some review sites may even hide or delete negative reviews altogether. Sort reviews by most recent to look for patterns that may indicate patterns of bad behavior.

Furthermore, keep in mind that even authentic reviews are more likely to be negative than positive. This is due to the fact that most people are more apt to write about negative experiences than they are positive ones. Look through multiple review sites to gauge what the general consensus is about the practice.

Word-of-mouth referrals are some of the most valuable insights one can get when searching for a new dentist. These types of recommendations often allow individuals to get firsthand feedback from a dentist's actual patients. According to WebMD, it may help one to ask their friends, family, neighbors, or co-workers for any referrals. Even a family doctor or local pharmacist may be able to provide a recommendation.

Patients looking for a new dentist because they are moving may also want to consider asking their current dentist if they know anyone in the area. The American Dental Association (ADA) also has a Find-a-Dentist® tool to assist individuals searching for a new dentist.

Social media represents a significant part of our everyday lives. Over recent years, medical professionals have been using this tool to draw in prospective patients. Next to Google, Facebook remains the second-largest review platform. When people search for a local dental practice on Facebook, dentists with strong recommendations typically show up at the top of search results.

Once individuals have a shortlist of options, it can help search for individual practices on Facebook. Dentists with a business page often feature posts showcasing their services, staff, and patient testimonials. This can provide valuable information about whether or not a practice would be a good fit.

Nextdoor is a less well-known social media option. This neighborhood-focused website requires users to provide proof of where they live when they join. Then they will be able to communicate with people directly in their community. This can be a great resource to find unbiased and honest patient reviews.

If all else fails, it is always a good idea to contact the local or state dental society. A list of such societies can be found on the ADA's website, where patients can see which dentists in the community are members.

By using these accredited resources and publications, patients can rest assured knowing that they are choosing to get care from providers who have voluntarily taken the extra step to commit to the ADA principles of autonomy, nonmaleficence, beneficence, justice, and veracity.

A dental hygienist is the dental staff member responsible for the removal of plaque and tartar from your teeth, along with polishing and flossing. They will also do various oral health screenings. Dental hygienists can also answer any questions you may have about preventative dental health.

A dentist handles the more complex dental procedures such as fillings or tooth extraction. They will also come in near the end of your regular dental appointment to look for any problems with your teeth and gums. During this time, you can also ask any questions you might have about your oral health.

The billing specialists or office managers can handle the majority of billing questions. The billing specialists can follow up with your insurance provider to discuss coverage. They can also talk to you about payment options.

Most people need to go to the dentist once or twice a year. Everyone's needs are different. We at Alexandria Old Town Dental can help determine what your unique risk profile is and how often you should come in for preventative care.

Yes. Many dental health issues are virtually undetectable by the untrained eye and do not make themselves known until the disease has already progressed. Only a dental professional can ensure that your oral cavity is in optimal condition. By regularly going to the dentist, you may save yourself time and money in the long run.

Preventative dentistry is dentistry that ensures that one's oral cavity is in optimal condition. This includes but is not limited to routine checkups, cleanings, and patient education.

Yes. There are many dental diseases that do not make themselves known to patients until they have already progressed. Only a qualified dental provider can ensure the health of your teeth and gums, saving you from any problems before they have the chance to worsen or occur. This type of preventative care can also help save you money in the long run.

Dental X-rays allow the dentist to fully examine the surrounding tissues and identify various diseases of the teeth. With an X-ray examination, a dentist may be able to detect small areas of decay between the teeth or below fillings, abscesses or cysts, certain tumors, developmental abnormalities, periodontal disease, and infections in the bone.

Bad dental offices tend to be generally unkempt in appearance and staffed by rude, impatient team members. They offer only a limited number of treatment options, and they are not receptive to questions. You should always feel safe and comfortable in a dentist's office – anything else should be taken as a warning sign.

Your oral health is something to take seriously. As such, you should always feel welcome to address any questions and concerns with a prospective dentist. Be sure to ask each dentist where they were educated and trained, their approach to preventative dentistry, whether they offer any types of anesthesia, and any other questions that spring to mind.

When looking for word-of-mouth referrals, you may want to consider the opinion of anyone you trust. This includes family, friends, neighbors, coworkers, family doctors, or even your local pharmacist. If you are looking for a new dentist because you are moving, your current dentist may even have a recommendation.

Suppose you have any preexisting conditions that may complicate dental healthcare. In that case, it is best to mention these issues upfront to any prospective dentists and ask if they have experience treating such patients.

Almost everyone needs to see a dentist for a dental checkup at least once or twice a year. However, each patient has their own unique set of needs. Our office can refer patients out to specialists as needed.

Dental hygienists have graduated from an accredited dental hygiene program and have taken and passed state exams to receive their license. During their studies, dental hygienists take classes in head and neck anatomy, pathology, nutrition, and medical ethics. Most programs take about three years to complete.

It can be easy to confuse dental assistants and dental hygienists as they perform many of the same duties. Dental assistants can take x-rays, prepare instruments and equipment, take impressions of the teeth, and assist the dentist during procedures. However, unlike dental hygienists, they do not collect patient health history, remove plaque from the teeth, apply sealants or fluoride, or do any patient documentation.

Dental hygienists must complete at least an Associate's degree in dental hygiene. They must then pass the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE) in order to achieve licensure. This exam is the only one required by all 50 states.

Regular dental visits are an integral part of preventative dentistry. They allow dentists to catch problems before they have the chance to worsen (or even occur at all).

Patients should never feel shy to ask any questions they may have about a prospective dentist. After all, one's oral health is something to take seriously. Make sure to ask about where each dentist was educated and trained, how they approach preventative dentistry, and whether or not they offer any types of anesthesia.

Dental hygienists conduct routine teeth cleanings and examinations. They are also responsible for preventative treatments, updating a patient's health history, screening for oral health conditions, and looking for areas of concern. During routine appointments, they remove plaque and tartar from teeth, polish and floss them, take X-rays, and discuss how to properly maintain dental hygiene at home.

If the dentist decides you need follow-up care, a treatment coordinator will likely talk to you about the suggested procedure, why it's necessary, and any costs that are involved. This person can also discuss what your insurance provider may cover. Treatment coordinators will require your consent before moving forward with any plans.

A dental center can benefit anyone looking to save time, money, and energy that might otherwise be spent going from practice to practice. However, only you can decide which dental practice is right for you. Those looking for a closer relationship with their dentist may benefit more from a private practice.

Yes. It is especially convenient for parents to take their children to dental centers because their patient information can easily be transitioned over to the next dentist as they age out of pediatric care.

To expedite your treatment process, make sure to bring your completed patient information form, patient health history form, HIPAA consent form, and patient authorization form. We will also need a copy of your dental insurance card (if applicable) and a photo ID (such as a driver's license).

Most people need to see the dentist once or twice a year. However, everyone's needs are different, and some may require more frequent visits than others. Here at Alexandria Old Town Dental, we can help determine what is right for you.

Yes. There is a large amount of plaque in the mouth that cannot be removed by brushing alone. An excess buildup of plaque can easily turn into tartar, which can cause permanent damage to the teeth and can only be removed by a professional cleaning.

Regular dental visits are a necessary part of preventative dentistry in that they allow dentists to identify dental healthcare problems before they have the chance to worsen or occur.

If you choose to visit a single-provider dental office, yes, you will always see the same dentist. However, it may be more difficult to get appointments when you need them, as frequently as you need. If you choose to visit a multi-provider dental center, it may be easier for you to get more convenient appointments, but you may see several providers. You have to decide what is most important for you.

It depends on a case-by-case basis. While many general dentists can provide care for patients of all ages, some practices have age policies. 

On this page, we have discussed several things you may want to consider about a new dentist during your search. However, you may also want to ask prospective dentists where they were educated and trained, how they approach preventative dentistry, what types of anesthesia (if any) they offer, and any other questions you may think of throughout the process.

Dental hygienists and dentists have very different roles within a dental practice. A dental hygienist will conduct oral screenings, update your patient information, take x-rays, do a thorough cleaning, and look for potential problems. The dentist will come in following the cleaning to do an exam and will also handle more complicated procedures.

Bad dental offices are generally unkempt and staffed with rude or impatient team members, with limited options for treatment. Questions may be shut down with a defensive attitude, causing patients to leave with an uncomfortable feeling about their treatment. At Alexandria Old Town Dental, we take all the necessary steps to keep you as safe and comfortable as possible.

Dental hygienists have several different roles in an office. They can assist the dentist during procedures, update the patient's chart, show patients how to care for their teeth, perform oral health screenings, and remove plaque from the teeth. They can also apply fluoride and sealants to teeth as well as take impressions.

It is crucial to mention this detail to prospective dentists, as certain preexisting conditions may complicate dental healthcare. Ask potential dentists if they have any experience treating similar patients.

Everyone should see a dentist for a routine checkup and cleaning at least once or twice a year. However, some patients may have needs that extend beyond the scope of a general dentist. Our team can refer patients out to specialists as necessary.

Warning signs of a bad dental office include a generally unkempt appearance and rude or impatient team members. Such practices also typically only offer limited treatment options and shut down any questions immediately with a rude or defensive attitude. If you feel uncomfortable about your treatment at any point, you should move onto the next dentist right away.