Dentistry on the Digital Frontier |
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January 9, 2006
by Gabby Hyman
Healthcare Programs Columnist
Digital imaging has changed the way dental assistants interact with their patients and how they track data for their employers. Dental assistants also train on traditional x-ray equipment, learning how to accurately place film strips, develop them, and code them for each patient. Many assisting school programs provide dental x-ray training, or assistants can learn on the job.
High Tech Dental Assisting
Today's dental assistant may be called upon to work with even more sophisticated equipment, for which training is essential. The intraoral camera has forever altered the way patient scanning and information is handled in the dental office. The camera not only captures vital images in digital format, but it also provides animated tracking data through its corresponding software.
Going Digital with Intraoral Imaging
Dental assisting programs have had to shift gears to embrace new intraoral technology. If you're looking for a dental assistant training program today, you may want to confirm that the prospective school includes introductory or comprehensive digital intraoral instruction.
Better Billing Practices
The intraoral camera records what the dentist sees in the patient's mouth. Images are uploaded to a computer screen where they are read and captured. The data is marked, stored in a database, and can be used to track initial assessment, treatment, and clinical outcomes. Since the database is linked to office insurance billing and coding software, the dental assistant may be required to send images directly to insurance companies to verify treatment plans. Sent digitally across dental/insurance networks, the images can also expedite reimbursements.
If you're already working as an assistant and your dentist purchases a dental digital imaging system, the manufacturer may provide on-site training. You'll need to learn positioning techniques, product and software features, and customization options for your office.
About the Author
Gabby Hyman has written for print and online media for more than 20 years. He has created online content for eToys, GoTo.com, Siebel Systems, Avaya, and Nissan UK.
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