Are There Dental Careers Available, Outside of Being a Dentist 

Nov 11th, 2022
Easton Dentists Nov 17th, 2022

You bet they are!  Dental careers are often desired because of their patient interaction, well-paid salary, and work-life balance, but there is a substantially high demand for dental professionals that don’t involve the extensive education of becoming a dentist or related doctor. Positions, such as dental hygienists, dental assistants, dental lab technicians, and administrative assistants are also great ways to make a living in the dental field. With flexible hours and lower educational costs than dentists, the accredited training programs for such positions might be worth your time.   

Dental Assistants
Dental assistants are considered one of the 25 fastest-growing occupations in the United States, providing a variety of tasks that help support the dental team on a daily basis. The responsibilities of a dental assistant often range from taking patient x-rays and sterilizing equipment, to recordkeeping and scheduling appointments. In some cases, dental assistants are also trained to take impressions of patients’ teeth for braces and retainers. Although the tasks of a dental assistant range from office to office, they often have many different opportunities for gainful employment and career advancement. Becoming a dental assistant is a great way to get into the dental care field without the expense of obtaining a degree. However, most states require the completion of an accredited program of one to two years in order to receive the proper credentials. Dental assistants, on average, tend to average around $40,000 a year as a mid-level career.  

Dental Lab Technician  

Becoming a dental laboratory technician is another great way to work with a dental team without a degree. Dental lab technicians help produce dental and orthodontic products, such as bridges, retainers, braces, crowns, dentures and more. While there are many courses that can help prepare you for the responsibilities that come with being a lab technician, most of the training can be done on the job. Although the salary depends on the practice, the average dental lab technician makes about $35,000-$60,000 a year. 

Dental Hygienist

A Dental Hygienist spends the majority of their day working directly with the patients under the supervision of a dentist. Averaging a salary of $74,000, Dental Hygienist are professionals with experience in cleaning tooth deposits, removing tough stains, and examining patients for signs of disease. Dental Hygienists are also trained in administering local anesthetics and providing preventative education for long term dental care. Dental Hygienists must acquire an Associate’s Degree to be considered for the role in a dental practice.  

Administration

Every healthcare office requires administrative support in order to operate smoothly. Someone with a friendly face to greet patients, answer phones, and schedule appointments is the ideal candidate to create a welcoming atmosphere and outstanding patient care. The demand for Administrative Assistants, Front Desk Coordinators, and Office Managers is extremely high with no education needed to pursue. The average income for an administrative role on the dental care team typically ranges from $30,000-$40,000 a year.  

 On a doctorate level, becoming a general dentist isn’t the only line of professional that is available. Orthodontists, Periodontists, and Oral Surgeons name a few who specialize in dental health and help improve the quality of life for thousands of patients.  

Orthodontist

Orthodontists are specialists who help with the alignment and positioning of the teeth. After a long journey of education and schooling, Orthodontists are constantly staying up-to-date with the most advanced straightening techniques and appliances. If becoming an Orthodontist is a career that interests you, it requires up to 12 years of schooling and advanced specialty education. Although the road to becoming an Orthodontist is a long one, this dental career is projected to grow faster than most careers. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistic’s Occupational Outlook Handbook, the employment of Orthodontists is predicted to see a growth of 11% by 2023.

Oral Surgeons

Oral surgeons, also known as Maxillofacial Surgeons, specialize in reconstructing the teeth, jaw, and facial bones, that can’t otherwise be treated through orthodontics. They often perform surgery and other procedures on the oral regions to treat diseases, injuries, and defects. The steps to become an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon include a four-year education, four years of dental school, and the completion of a hospital-based residency program.

Periodontist

A Periodontist is a dentist who specializes in the care of inflammation and disease of gums, the alveolar bone, and the periodontal ligament. To become a periodontist, one has to complete dental school and obtain a postdoctoral certificate, which often takes more than three years to receive.  

The dental field has many different careers that are available. Depending on the degree of education in which you prefer, every dental position has the advantage of helping patients achieve healthier smiles.
 

 

Secrets To A Healthier Smile

Jun 12th, 2022
Easton Dentists Jun 13th, 2022

You are probably aware of the popular saying, ‘you’re never fully dressed without a smile.’ It’s true! There’s not a single person out there who doesn’t want a bright, beautiful smile.


What’s the secret to a secret to healthier smile?

The first thing you need to do is get to the dentist. Most dental plans cover a standard, twice a year teeth cleaning, but many people should see their local dentist more often. In fact, the American Dental Association encourages adults to see their dentist every 90 days for a checkup and quick cleaning. This will ensure your teeth and gums are in optimal health. Frequent visits will also help stop any cavities dead in their tracks.

If you tend to hide your smile due to some alignment imperfections, consider checking out a clear straightening system like Invisalign. Invisalign is a wildly popular, efficient method for correcting minor tooth imperfections. Typically, users are supplied with a pair of clear, computer-generated trays. The user then wears the trays for 24 hours per day and switches to slightly different trays about every two weeks. The best part is often people have no idea the user is even wearing clear braces.

But adults aren’t the only patients who should be concerned with oral health. How can you ensure your kids have a healthier smile?


Your Child’s Dentist

We know your kid’s first visit to the dentist can be stressful, however, the professionals at Easton Dentists work with children each and every day and will ensure your little one is comfortable and relaxed.

Need some tips? Make sure you talk to your child about where they are going and what is going to happen. Prizes are also a great way to advertise the dentist as a fun and exciting place. Consider offering your child stickers, crayons, finger puppets, or key chains after a successful visit.

Is Cosmetic Bonding For You?

Jan 8th, 2022
Easton Dentists Feb 1st, 2022

For years, people have worked diligently to achieve the perfect smile.  Brushing and flossing are the obvious measures that should be taken but many people have found that more permanent measures are needed to whiten and brighten their smiles.

While porcelain veneers are a good and viable option for a variety of patients, they may not be perfect for everyone.  Likewise, caps and crowns work in some instances but every patient is different and so every treatment must be different.  For patients looking for an alternative to veneers and crowns, cosmetic bonding may be the route to go.

Cosmetic bonding is a minimally invasive procedure that can be performed by very talented cosmetic dentists.  The process is typically painless and can do anything from whiten a smile to repairing the superficial imperfections of a smile.

  1. The outside of the tooth is given a rough surface.  This new roughness will make it easier for the new material to be applied to the tooth.
  2. The cosmetic dentist will apply a resin or dental grade plastic to the rough surface of the tooth.  More layers of material will be added until the tooth matches the surrounding teeth in general shape.
  3. A high-intensity light will be shined on the material.  This light will harden it and give the material the same basic toughness of a natural tooth.
  4. Finally, the dentist will shape the new material.  This process will ensure that the cosmetic bonding matches in color and shape to the surrounding teeth.

After the cosmetic bonding is completed, the tooth will look, feel, and perform just as any other tooth.  Even care for a cosmetic bonding is simple.  Patients with a cosmetic bonding need only to floss and brush as normal, basically treating the cosmetic bonding as the rest of their teeth.  If you have more questions about cosmetic bonding, give our Columbus, Ohio office a call today.

Use your Dental Care Insurance by the End of the Year

Dec 15th, 2021
Easton Dentists Jan 2nd, 2022

As 2021 winds down there are many things to prepare for.  Before you know it, all your Halloween candy will be long gone, your Thanksgiving turkey will be little more than a fond memory, the Holiday Season will have passed, your New Year’s resolution will be giving you trouble, and your dental care insurance will have gone another year without being used to its fullest.

Most dental care insurance plans’ yearly maximum coverage expires on the first of the year making you start from scratch when you finally decide to get the annoyingly painful toothache taken care of.  If you set your dental appointment now, you’ll get all your tooth-related needs taken care of before the end of the year, which, in turn, will give you a clean slate in 2013 should any unexpected dental problems arise.  You have already paid for your insurance; you may as well get the most use out of it.

In addition to the money you could be saving by making an appointment before the end of the year, think of the pain you could be saving yourself from.  Dental problems, like just about every other kind of problem, only get worse when left untreated.  A sore tooth today could lead all kinds of issues down the road.  Waiting to get a dental problem taken care of has never been better than actually taking care of a dental problem.  Don’t let a general apathy toward going to the dentist get in the way of your overall health.

While often overused, the phrase ‘use it or lose it’ really comes into play when talking about your dental insurance deductible.  If you don’t take full advantage of your dental care insurance this year, you can’t take it with you into next year.  Use your insurance and your teeth and wallet will thank you.

If you aren’t absolutely positive where you stand with your insurance or how much your deductible is, call your dentist.  They’ll be more than happy to work with you to make sure you and your teeth stay in good health.

What To Look For When Selecting a Dentist in Columbus

Jul 17th, 2021
Easton Dentists Aug 16th, 2021

Dentists in Columbus Ohio work with a lot of patients day in and day out. Just as in any profession, there are individual dentists who enjoy their job with a passion and excel at it, and there are others who just do the minimum to get by. When looking for a dentist, it is important to look for qualities that will make you feel welcomed.

If you are looking for a dentist, here are some traits and qualities that make great dentists:

Easy to Talk to

The best dentists in their field try to learn about their patients on a more personal level before treating them to make them feel comfortable. This makes the patients less anxious and makes them feel like the dentist truly cares about them.

Trustworthiness

There are a lot of sharp and hazardous objects that dentists use every day: syringes, dental picks, drills, x-ray machines and other types of dental equipment. As a patient, you should be able to trust that your dentist is capable of making your experience pain-free and pleasant.

Passionate

There are a lot of dentists who become burnt out in their careers. It is very important to find a dentist that comes to work every day with passion, a smile, a great attitude, and leaves work the same way. These kinds of dentists are eager to constantly learn about new techniques and procedures in dentistry that make life easier for them and their patients.

Great Communicator

Successful dentists can convey their thoughts clearly and efficiently to their patients and staff. Whether it is a simple routine or a complex procedure, a dentist must be able to communicate this important information to you effectively.

At The Dental Center at Easton Town Center, we understand your thoughts and concerns. Visiting a dentist should never be uncomfortable or intimidating. Dr. Gilmer and his professional staff are committed to making every office visit a positive experience. We encourage you to ask questions; together we can make sound decisions about the dental and oral healthcare for you and your family. Schedule an appointment with us today!

How to Become a Dentist

Jul 14th, 2021
Easton Dentists Aug 16th, 2021

“I wrote a song about dental floss, but did anyone’s teeth get cleaner?”  — Frank Zappa

Dentists are the medical professionals that specialize behind the most beautiful of smiles. Day after day, patient after patient, these medical individuals diagnose, treat, and prevent the most common and uncommon oral problems.  These problems can range from plaque build up to oral cancer.

But what does it take to be a dentist in the state of Ohio?

Enroll in a Bachelor’s Degree Program

Traditionally, those becoming aspiring dentists opt for a science-related or pre-dentistry majors to increase their chances of being accepted to dental school.  However, exceptions have been made for individuals who complete an undergraduate degree in an unrelated field.

Take the Dental Admissions Test

The Dental Admissions Test is an examination that grants a prospective dental school candidate admission to a college of dentistry.  The exam is five hours long, contains 280 multiple-choice questions, and its topics include natural sciences, mathematics, and perceptual ability.

Graduate from an Accredited Dental College

Upon completion of any pre-dentistry or science-related undergraduate programs and the Dental Admissions Test, a prospective dentist must graduate from an accredited dental college with either a Doctorate of Dental Surgery or a Doctorate of Dental Medicine.

The first 2 years of dental school encompasses a heavy general dental science curriculum. Upon the final 2 years of dental school, students must participate in clinical practicum and get hands-on experience in dental clinics under supervision.

Obtain Licensure

In the United States, all dentists must obtain a license to practice dentistry.  To obtain licensure, a dentist must take a 2-part exam covering dental science, ethics and clinical procedures given by the state.

Consider a Specialization

Finally, a prospective dentist must also declare a specialty with the American Dental Association (ADA) and the state in which they want to practice. The ADA recognizes 9 different specialty areas: Public Health Dentistry, Prosthodontics, Endodontics, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology, Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology, Orthodontics, Periodontics and Pediatric Dentistry.  Becoming a specialist in dentistry usually entails an additional 2-4 year education and residency (depending on the state’s requirements) to obtain a specialty license.

At The Dental Center at Easton Town Center, Dr. Brad Gilmer graduated successfully with honors from THE Ohio State University and is currently a member of The American Dental Association, The Ohio Dental Association, The Columbus Dental Society, and The Chicago Dental Society.  With years of practical experience under his belt, you can rest assured that you are in caring and more-than-qualified hands.

Our highly experienced and welcoming dental staff in our office in Columbus Ohio deeply care about our patients.  The Dental Center at Easton provide only the best dental care at an affordable price for you and your family.  If you are due for a check-up, schedule an appointment with us, we would love to meet you; we want to make your visit as pleasant

Teeth Whitening Can Help You Look Your Best According to This Columbus Ohio Dental Staff

May 8th, 2021
Easton Dentists Jun 8th, 2021

dentist columbus ohioMany people ask this dentist Columbus, Ohio care provider if teeth whitening is something they should consider.

Let’s face it. Most of us wish we had naturally brighter, whiter teeth. But no matter how often we brush, our teeth never seem to reach the level where they show our friends and family that wonderful radiant smile. Of course, there are many over-the-counter products (including toothpastes and teeth whitening kits) all claiming to be able to deliver the quality results you have been trying to achieve. Unfortunately, most of these products do not deliver on their promises and you are left with less than desirable results.

What Do Dentist Columbus, Ohio Providers Suggest?

Most will tell you to consider whitening. We recommend seeing a dentist instead of wasting your hard-earned dollars on over-the-counter products. Often they simply don’t have the proper chemical agents.

No matter the cause for your dull and stained teeth (smoking, diet choices, and drinking coffee and colas), a dentist will have professional products that will be able to deliver quality results. When you visit a dentist for teeth whitening, you will not only get the very best in whitening products and treatment, but you will also be able to ensure that your teeth are as healthy as possible.

Dentist in Columbus, Ohio & Teeth Whitening

Our approach to the process is to evaluate your current teeth. Then recommend the exact steps to lighten your teeth.

Teeth whitening will help you to not only look your best, but it can help you look younger as well. When you have clean, bright teeth, you will have a more attractive and vibrant smile. In an age where a more youthful look is trendy, we’re happy to help you get one step closer.

Ready to look your best with teeth whitening? Contact the team at Easton Dentists to set your teeth whitening appointment today!

We’re one of the fastest growing dentist Columbus, Ohio providers.

Hollywood Teeth Are Too White

Jul 21st, 2020
Easton Dentists Aug 3rd, 2020

When going to the movies we see actors with perfect hair, skin, bodies, and teeth, appearing to remain untouched by time. However, it sometimes seems that their teeth are too white. In Mathew McConaughey’s role in Dallas Buyer’s Club, he was thin and weathered. Despite this, his teeth were the textbook definition of pearly whites. This seems to be an oversight on Hollywood’s part. McConaughey reportedly lost a significant amount of weight to accurately convey the character’s illness. Isn’t this taking things too far to alter an actor’s teeth too?

The Silver Screen is not meant to show viewers examples of “regular” people. However, it is arguable that actors need to look like them when that is whom they’re supposed to be playing. The fact is that the majority of us do not have a perfect, stark-white smile, but this is what makes us unique. The fact that one’s teeth aren’t opulent white means they’ve lived a little and enjoyed life. As long as you practice good normal dental hygiene, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t enjoy a cup of coffee or a glass of red wine. Our dentists are trained in cosmetic dentistry, including teeth whitening, to help you get a brighter smile. However, it can sometimes be a lifestyle change that makes long-term differences in the color of your teeth. Give up smoking or excessive coffee if you want whiter teeth.

Contact us today to set up an appointment for teeth whitening!

Dental Implants Fix Your Smile By Replacing That Missing Tooth!

Oct 16th, 2019
Easton Dentists Nov 1st, 2019

If you’re missing a tooth, due to an accident, an extraction, or gum disease, you know it’s a cause for concern. Not only is a missing tooth, especially in the front of the mouth, unsightly- it can affect the alignment of your existing teeth and even cause problems in chewing.

Luckily, there’s an answer in dental implants. You can replace a single tooth with a properly placed implant, which will preserve the appearance of your existing teeth and restore your smile.

What is a dental implant, exactly? It’s simply a titanium screw, placed in the bone in between the existing teeth. This “screw” acts just like your existing tooth roots- anchoring the new toot in place. It will be several weeks while the implant bonds to your bone – but after that, your dentist will make a dental crown that fits onto the implant- and you can enjoy your new smile.
Is the surgery painful? Actually, most patients report less discomfort than a normal cavity filling. Local anesthesia takes care of pain during surgery, and pain medication can be prescribed for post-op soreness.

A dentist right here in Columbus Ohio can be the best resource for finding out if a dental implant is right for you. There are factors to consider, including the condition of the existing bone and surrounding teeth, which may impact the effectiveness of the implant. Bone grafts or braces may be required before an implant can be placed.

Replacing missing teeth with dental implants has advantages for almost all patients: improving appearance, oral health, chewing and speaking normally, and improved self-esteem. Talk to Dr. Gilmer today to find out your options for dental implants.

How to Choose the Best Dentist for You and Your Family

Jul 26th, 2019
Easton Dentists Jul 26th, 2019

Maintaining you dental health should be one of the most important aspects of your overall physical well being. Finding the most helpful and competent dentist in Columbus Ohio is an essential element in remaining vigilant about your health over a lifetime. Because of relocating to Columbus, your dentist is retiring, or you’re not comfortable with your current dentist, selecting the right provider may take a bit of research – but it’s well worth it.

Questions you should ask when considering a new dental health professional:

What are the office hours?
Is the office near public transit, or is parking available?
What insurances are accepted?
How long has the dentist been in practice?

What are the office hours?
Is the office near public transit, or is parking available?
Are they available in emergency situations?

Try to find testimonials and reviews for your prospective new dentist – either through personal referrals or online. Angie’s List, Yelp, and Google reviews often offer a comprehensive opinion of the dental practice in that you may be researching.

Once you’ve made your selection, call the office to schedule an appointment. Your first visit is an opportunity to get comfortable with the dental staff. Use this time to ask appropriate questions so that you can make informed decisions.

You may wish to specifically be inquisitive about your particular dental situation. If you are very sensitive during cleanings, or require additional anesthesia in certain situations, your first visit would be a good time to discuss these concerns. Just like people, some dentists are more amenable than others in providing additional care. Also inform your new dentist of any specific dental concerns, previous unusual dental experiences or any other irregularities with your dental history.

Be sure to discuss the charges for regular checkups and xrays with the office staff. Most offices will provide pretreatment estimates for your services at no charge. When you have thorough knowledge of the specific services that are required in which your new dentist offers, and the potential costs to you, you can make an informed decision.