LESSON 2
THE ORAL EXAMINATION IN PREVENTIVE DENTISTRY
Section I. THE ROLE OF THE DENTAL SPECIALIST AND THE PREVENTIVE
DENTIS TRY SPECIALIST
2-1.
GENERAL
Preventive dentistry is, perhaps, the single most important aspect of dentistry.
Preservation of the original structures of the oral cavity by preventing disease is far
more effective than trying to fight dental disease once it has begun. The work of the
dental specialist and the preventive dentistry specialist (PDS) is an integral part of any
preventive dentistry program.
2-2.
ROLE OF THE DENTAL SPECIALIST
a. The basic dental specialist (68E10), or dental assistant as they were formerly
known, performs the following preventive dentistry tasks.
(1)
Conducts oral history interviews.
(2) Instructs patients on basic oral hygiene care, to include brushing and
flossing techniques.
(3) Performs and records plaque and gingival bleeding indices, and reports
to the dental officer any changes from normal appearance of oral tissue.
b. In general, the dental specialist is assigned duties (given responsibilities)
affecting not only the oral health of individuals but also the oral health of the military
community.
2-3.
ROLE OF THE PREVENTIVE DENTISTRY SPECIALIST
a. The preventive dentistry specialist (PDS) has received specialized training
beyond the 68E10 level and carries the X2 additional skill identifier (ASI). Under the
supervision of a dental officer, the preventive dental specialist, working with individual
patients, performs the following tasks.
(1)
Removes all tooth deposits both above and below the given tissue level.
(2)
Performs root planing and curettage.
(3)
Applies topical fluoride or other similar materials to the teeth.
MD0513
2-2