The Evolution of the Dental Assisting Profession.

The objectives of this article are to describe the dental assistant's role in the dental delivery system; assess the educational structure of the dental assisting profession; and project factors likely to impact the future role of the dental assistant. The article summarizes the current status and trends of the dental assisting profession including general responsibilities, credentialing, and regulation. An overview of the workforce and parameters of employment is provided with a description of the broad scope of practice, education, and licensure options, which vary by state. Existing academic models and enrollment trends in accredited dental programs are included, as are the strengths and weaknesses of the current educational system. Multiple factors may impact the future of this profession. To address the anticipated increase in the demand for and responsibilities of dental assistants, curricular revisions will be needed to prepare for implementation of interprofessional care models in which dental assistants will play a vital role. Well-educated dental assistants will be needed to support viable models of dental care and wellness in the U.S. Enhanced career opportunities and varied employment environments may increase job satisfaction and practice longevity. As protection of the public is of the utmost importance in the dental profession, this evolving dental clinician must be formally educated in all aspects of clinical practice and be permitted to perform delegated patient care, as legally allowed by their states. This article was written as part of the project "Advancing Dental Education in the 21st Century."

Oral health maintenance dental implants.

The dental professional's role is to determine the dental implant patient's individual and specific self care needs. Recommendations and instructions to patients are often determined by the prosthesis design, location and angulation of the implants, the length and the position of the transmucosal abutments, and patient habits such as smoking, oral health motivation, and manual dexterity. To ensure optimal peri-implant health, the patient must maintain daily biofilm removal and maintain regular professional care. The negation of early microbial accumulation on the dental implant surfaces and the elimination of at least 85 percent of plaque biofilm by the patient is crucial for long-term success.

Blood pressure guidelines and screening techniques.

Recording and monitoring blood pressure should be a lifetime practice. Studies have shown that people with normal blood pressure readings between the ages of 55 and 65 still have an 80 to 90 percent risk of developing hypertension by the age of 80. The information in this course teaches the dental health professional to be aware of the causes of hypertension and how to determine and assess identifiable causes. Understanding the terms systolic, diastolic and pulse pressure along with knowledge of the various blood pressure categories and the factors that influence blood pressure is important. This course provides you with the appropriate method of taking a blood pressure and how to determine the recommendations for follow-up and lifestyle modifications for patient treatment.