A professional who diagnoses and treats diseases, injuries, and malformations of teeth and gums, and related oral structures. Responsibilities include:

• Examines patient to determine nature of condition, utilizing x rays, dental instruments, and other diagnostic procedures.
• Cleans, fills, extracts, and replaces teeth, using rotary and hand instruments, dental appliances, medications, and surgical implements.
• Provides preventive dental services to patient, such as applications of fluoride and sealants to teeth, and education in oral and dental hygiene.