GP Dentist

1. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The General Dentist provides direct outpatient care in all areas of general dentistry in consultation with dental specialist, physicians and other health professionals as required for the best interest of the patient.

1. PATIENT EXAMINATION AND EVALUATION

• Examines clinically and radiographically the hard and soft tissues of the oral cavity and head and neck region.
• To conduct assessment & re-assessment for all patients in the OPD, on admission, and prior to any procedure.
• Identifies and records developmental abnormalities, caries, fractures, root exposures, erosions, abrasions, and defective restorations of existing teeth.  Records condition and existing pathology of the periodontium, and other soft tissues of the mouth, temporo - mandibular joint, muscles of mastication, occlusal relationship, and other areas of the head and neck region.
• Orders, exposes, and interprets intra and extra oral radiographs of the teeth, alveolar ridges, temporo - mandibular joint, and other hard tissues of the cranial facial complex.  Uses radiography techniques and safeguards which will assure maximum diagnostic results and patient protection against radiation hazards.
• Diagnose existing pathology of the above mentioned areas utilizing other aids such as study casts, electric vitalometers, transillumunators, thermal aids, percussion and palpation.
• Interviews patients and records medical history.  Orders appropriate medical laboratory tests to assist in the diagnosis of systemic diseases which may affect the course of dental treatment. Takes and records patients’ vital signs, (including pulse rate and blood pressure) and refers patients for appropriate medical evaluation when indicated.
• Plans a course of treatment based on the findings of the clinical and radiographic examination, the patient’s needs, and consistent with the philosophy and policies guiding the delivery of dental health care in the clinic.