scientific mind. Who is she? Your dentist, of course.

The dentist is a highly skilled member of the health care delivery team devoted to the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of diseases of the teeth and oral structures. The dentist also restores and replaces missing teeth. The dentist may help the physician in the diagnosis of some diseases which may first be seen in the mouth.

Dental education consists of at least two years of college followed by a three or four year dental curriculum. Upon successful completion of the programme the student has earned the degree of Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS), Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) or Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS). Many dentist then enter hospital residency programmes for additional post graduate training.

Most dentists are general practitioners and they treat a variety of dental conditions. Also, there are eight recognised dental specialties. A periodontist treats diseases of the gingival tissues (gums) and the bone supporting the teeth. A paediatric dentist specialises in the dental treatment of children and adolescents. An orthodontist uses braces to correct misaligned teeth and skeletal discrepancies. An oral and maxillogfacial surgeon performs surgical procedures to correct oral abnormalities. An oral pathologist is an expert in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the oral cavity. A public health dentist promotes good health by treating and controlling dental disease using public health techniques and epidemiology in communities. An endodontist treats the nerve and root ends of teeth using root canal techniques. A prosthodontist replaces broken, damaged or missing teeth with crowns, dentures bridges and implants.

There are several other people who may be involved in the delivery of quality dental care. A dental hygienist records the health history, takes x-rays, removes deposits and stains from teeth and counsels patients on techniques to improve and maintain oral health.

The role of the dental nurse (dental assistant) is to enable the dentist to work at maximum efficiency. The dental nurse sterilises instruments, manages schedules and sometimes handles billing. Most important, the dental nurse provides a calming influence on the patient and an extra pair of hands.

A dental laboratory technician fabricates crowns, bridges, dentures and orthodontic appliances using small hand instruments. The technician must possess an artistic flair and be able to give attention to fine detail. The outcome of the technician's independence and artistry is a quality product which the dentist then delivers to the patient.

A dental repair technician is responsible for maintaining equipment that ranges from delicate handpieces to complex dental chairs and compressors. The dental repair technician must have a knowledge of plumbing, electronics and mechanics and also some knowledge of dental procedures.

Your dental care is delivered to you by a highly skilled team of individuals that extends beyond the people you see on your way through the office. Of course, you are the most important member of the team because without your home care and cooperation the treatment cannot succeed. So next time someone says you have a beautiful smile, perhaps you will secretly pat yourself on the back and thank the rest of your dental team.

Dr. Corliss Anderson-Furbert