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ESCO occupation

dental practitioner

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Dental practitioners prevent, diagnose and treat anomalies and diseases affecting the teeth, mouth, jaws and adjoining tissues.

2261.1 ISCO 2261 ESCO source
Competences
83
Groups
4
Essential
67
Optional
16

Competences and skills

83 ESCO relations
Essential knowledge 7 competences

Occupation specific

0 competences

No competences in this bucket.

Sector-specific

5 competences
anaesthetics

Anaesthetics is a medical specialty mentioned in the EU Directive 2005/36/EC.

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clinical disciplines in dentistry

The clinical disciplines and methods, providing the coherent picture of anomalies, lesions and diseases of the teeth, mouth, jaws and associated tissues and of preventive, diagnostic and therapeutic dentistry.

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medico-biological and medical sciences related to dentistry

The behavioral component and the social environment which impact the health of humans, in respect to dentistry.

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mouth anatomy

The structure and function of the teeth, mouth, jaws and associated tissues, both healthy and diseased, and their relationship to the general state of health and to the physical and social well-being of the patient.

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surgery

The essential procedures in surgical practice such as the principle of safe surgery, the pathophysiology of wound healing, knot tying, tissue handling, retraction and any other instruments and procedures used in the operating room.

Scope note
Excludes .
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Cross-sector

2 competences
cosmetic dental procedures

The dental restoration procedures and treatments that enhance the appearance of patients` teeth such as bleaching, enamel recontouring and adhesive dentistry, porcelain veneers, inlays, onlays and dental crowns.

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dentistry science

The sciences on which dentistry is based and an understanding of scientific methods, such as the principles of measuring biological functions, the evaluation of scientifically established facts and the analysis of data.

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Essential skills and competences 60 competences

Occupation specific

24 competences
carry out local anesthesia in dental procedures

Achieve local anaesthesia for dental procedures, managing complications related to anaesthesia.

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correct temporomandibular joint abnormalities

Correct joint abnormalities by realigning the teeth to improve the patient`s bite and help the jaw fit together properly.

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diagnose abnormalities of dental-facial structures

Assess abnormalities in jaw development, tooth position, and other structures of the teeth and face.

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differentiate between maxillofacial tissues

Distinguish abnormally hard and soft tissues of the maxillofacial complex from normal tissues.

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discuss dental treatment options with patient

Discuss findings, diagnoses, aetiology with the patient and let the patient participate in considering risks, benefits and prognoses of the treatment options.

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fit dental appliances

Fit dental appliances in the patient`s mouth to alter the position of teeth and jaws or realign teeth.

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lead the dental team

Act as the leader of the dental team by providing clear instructions to the staff, depending on the dental procedures undertaken.

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manage dental emergencies

Handle dental emergencies which are diverse in their nature, such as infections, bacterial, fungal, and viral, fractured teeth, responding to each individual case with a treatment that is unique to the situation.

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manage edentulous patients

Manage patients who lack one or more teeth by providing fixed, removable and implant prostheses.

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manage occlusion

Assess how the teeth of the lower jaw fit to the teeth of the upper jaw, recognising and managing malocclusion, or a bad contact between the teeth.

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minimise occupational hazards in dentistry practice

Understand and implement procedures to minimise occupational hazards in dentistry.

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perform dental clinical examination

Perform a comprehensive examination of the patient`s teeth and gums, collecting data using clinical, radiographic, and periodontal techniques as well as dental charting and other techniques in order to assess the patient`s needs.

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perform oral health diagnosis

Inquire about the state of oral hygiene, perform an examination, do imaging investigations and interpret the findings to set a diagnosis.

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provide instruction in orthodontic procedures

Lead orthodontic procedures, providing clear instructions to dental staff and technical assistants.

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provide periodontal treatment

Manage gum conditions and diseases, providing periodontal treatment as needed and monitoring treatment outcomes.

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rehabilitate worn dentition

Manage tooth caries, defects and aesthetic problems, using techniques that conserve tooth structure and preserve pulp vitality to restore form and function.

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restore teeths' natural colour

Bleach, clean or polish teeth to restore natural colour.

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supervise dental staff

Supervise the work of dental staff, making sure they manage equipment and supplies appropriately.

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treat cases of malocclusion

Treat and eliminate malocclusion. Restore full function to the teeth by removing certain teeth, making room for teeth still erupting, then attach braces to the teeth to straighten the bite.

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treat exposure of dental pulp

Treat exposure of tooth pulp by pulp capping, removal of pulp from pulp chamber, or root canal, using dental instruments.

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treat snoring problems

Treat snoring problems using special appliances and/or laser surgery.

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treat tooth decay

Treat tooth decay by assessing the risk, extent and activity of tooth decay, and recommend and provide appropriate therapy, whether surgical or non-surgical.

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use orthodontic tools

Use orthodontic tools such as gauges, dental placement instruments, probes, scissors, and X-ray units.

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write prescriptions for medication in dentistry

Determine indications and contraindications for the use of medication in dental practice, determining their dosages and routes of administration and writing prescriptions for medication used in dentistry.

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Sector-specific

19 competences
accept own accountability

Accept accountability for one`s own professional activities and recognise the limits of one`s own scope of practice and competencies.

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advise on healthcare users' informed consent

Ensure patients/clients are fully informed about the risks and benefits of proposed treatments so they can give informed consent, engaging patients/clients in the process of their care and treatment.

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apply context specific clinical competences

Apply professional and evidence based assessment, goal setting, delivery of intervention and evaluation of clients, taking into account the developmental and contextual history of the clients, within one`s own scope of practice.

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comply with quality standards related to healthcare practice

Apply quality standards related to risk management, safety procedures, patients feedback, screening and medical devices in daily practice, as they are recognized by the national professional associations and authorities.

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contribute to continuity of health care

Contribute to the delivery of coordinated and continuous healthcare.

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counsel on nutrition and its impact on oral health

Counsel patients about good nutrition and its impact on oral health.

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deal with patients' anxiety

Recognise and handle the fears of patients undergoing a dental treatment.

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ensure safety of healthcare users

Make sure that healthcare users are being treated professionally, effectively and safe from harm, adapting techniques and procedures according to the person's needs, abilities or the prevailing conditions.

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interpret findings from medical examinations

Interpret the findings from a patient`s history, clinical examination, radiographic examination, and other diagnostic tests and procedures.

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keep records for dental prostheses

Make the required records for the laboratory fabrication of dental prostheses and appliances.

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manage adverse reactions to anaesthesia

Handle patients with adverse reactions to anaesthetics administered during the operation.

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perform reconstructive oral surgery

Correct problems of the jaw and facial bone resulting from previous trauma or removal of pathology.

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promote health and safety policies in health services

Promote adherence to local, regional, national and EU Health and Safety legislation, policies, guidelines and protocols.

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provide treatment strategies for challenges to human health

Identify possible treatment protocols for the challenges to human health within a given community in cases such as infectious diseases of high consequences at the global level.

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refer healthcare users

Make referrals to other professionals, based on the healthcare user's requirements and needs, especially when recognising that additional healthcare diagnostics or interventions are required.

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select materials for orthodontic appliances

Determine the appropriate materials for removable or permanent orthodontic appliances, paying attention to design and function as specified by prescription.

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undertake clinical audit

Undertake internal clinical audit through the collection of statistical, financial and other data related to service delivery.

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use e-health and mobile health technologies

Use mobile health technologies and e-health (online applications and services) in order to enhance the provided healthcare.

digital
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work in multidisciplinary health teams

Participate in the delivery of multidisciplinary health care, and understand the rules and competences of other healthcare related professions.

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Cross-sector

17 competences
apply organisational techniques

Employ a set of organisational techniques and procedures which facilitate the achievement of the set goals set such as detailed planning of personnel's schedules. Use these resources efficiently and sustainably, and show flexibility when required.

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communicate in healthcare

Communicate effectively with patients, families and other caregivers, health care professionals, and community partners.

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comply with legislation related to health care

Comply with the regional and national health legislation which regulates relations between suppliers, payers, vendors of the healthcare industry and patients, and the delivery of healthcare services.

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deal with emergency care situations

Assess the signs and be well-prepared for a situation that poses an immediate threat to a person's health, security, property or environment.  

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develop a collaborative therapeutic relationship

Develop a mutually collaborative therapeutic relationship during treatment, fostering and gaining healthcare users' trust and cooperation.

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educate on the prevention of illness

Offer evidence-based advice on how to avoid ill health, educate and advise individuals and their carers on how to prevent ill health and/or be able to advise how to improve their environment and health conditions. Provide advice on the identification of risks leading to ill health and help to increase the patients' resilience by targeting prevention and early intervention strategies.

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empathise with the healthcare user

Understand the background of clients` and patients’ symptoms, difficulties and behaviour. Be empathetic about their issues; showing respect and reinforcing their autonomy, self-esteem and independence. Demonstrate a concern for their welfare and handle according to the personal boundaries, sensitivities, cultural differences and preferences of the client and patient in mind.

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follow clinical guidelines

Follow agreed protocols and guidelines in support of healthcare practice which are provided by healthcare institutions, professional associations, or authorities and also scientific organisations.

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interact with healthcare users

Communicate with clients and their carer’s, with the patient’s permission, to keep them informed about the clients’ and patients’ progress and safeguarding confidentiality.

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listen actively

Give attention to what other people say, patiently understand points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times; able to listen carefully the needs of customers, clients, passengers, service users or others, and provide solutions accordingly.

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manage healthcare users' data

Keep accurate client records which also satisfy legal and professional standards and ethical obligations in order to facilitate client management, ensuring that all clients' data (including verbal, written and electronic) are treated confidentially.

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manage infection control in the facility

Implement a set of measures to prevent and control infections, formulating and establishing health and safety procedures and policies.

Scope note
Includes procedures such as hand washing, disinfection and proper skin care, universal hygiene precautions, collection and handling of laboratory specimens, segregation and disposal of waste materials, decontamination of instruments and clinical equipment, reporting and treatment of sharps injuries, and dealing with blood and body fluid spillages.
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perform multiple tasks at the same time

Execute multiple tasks at the same time, being aware of key priorities.

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promote inclusion

Promote and respect diversity, and advocate for equal treatment of genders, ethnicities and minority groups in organisations in order to prevent discrimination and ensure inclusion and a positive environment.

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provide health education

Provide evidence based strategies to promote healthy living, disease prevention and management.

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respond to changing situations in health care

Cope with pressure and respond appropriately and in time to unexpected and rapidly changing situations in healthcare.

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work in a multicultural environment in health care

Interact, relate and communicate with individuals from a variety of different cultures, when working in a healthcare environment.

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Optional knowledge 4 competences

Occupation specific

0 competences

No competences in this bucket.

Sector-specific

0 competences

No competences in this bucket.

Cross-sector

4 competences
employment law

The law which mediates the relationship between employees and employers. It concerns employees' rights at work which are binding by the work contract.

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impact of social contexts on health

The social and cultural contexts of individuals` behaviours, and the impact on their health within their social and cultural context.

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manage healthcare staff

The managerial tasks and responsibilities required in a health care setting.

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pedagogy

The discipline that concerns the theory and practice of education including the various instructional methods for educating individuals or groups.

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Optional skills and competences 12 competences

Occupation specific

1 competence
correct dentofacial deformities

Surgically realign and reconstruct the upper and lower jaws into proper dental and facial relationships to improve the patient`s bite and facial appearance.

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Sector-specific

3 competences
contribute to practice innovation in health care

Contribute to improving care in the daily practice, by adapting to new technological improvements or innovations related to devices, material, procedures or guidelines used in health care.

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handle payments in dentistry

Handle taxes, paychecks and insurance payments for the provided dental services.

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organise public oral health programmes

Organise public oral health programmes to educate people on healthy lifestyles and good practices to protect teeth and gums.

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Cross-sector

8 competences
build community relations

Establish affectionate and long-lasting relationships with local communities, e.g. by organising special programms for kindergarden, schools and for dissabled and older people, raising awareness and receiving community appreciation in return.

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conduct continuing professional development workshops

Organise and conduct various workshops or tutoring programs to develop and improve medical or dental competencies and clinical performances of healthcare professionals.

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conduct health related research

Conduct research in health related topics and communicate findings orally, through public presentations or by writing reports and other publications.

Scope note
Research topics may include illness, acute, chronic and non-communicable conditions, public health, clinical research, health promotion and disease prevention topics.
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inform policy makers on health-related challenges

Provide useful information related to health care professions to ensure policy decisions are made in the benefit of communities.

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record healthcare users' billing information

Record the healthcare user`s information for the billing of provided medical services.

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train employees

Lead and guide employees through a process in which they are taught the necessary skills for the perspective job. Organise activities aimed at introducing the work and systems or improving the performance of individuals and groups in organisational settings.

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use foreign languages for health-related research

Use foreign languages for conducting and collaborating in health-related research.

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use foreign languages in patient care

Communicate in foreign languages with healthcare users, their carers, or services providers. Use foreign languages to faciliate patient care according to the needs of the patient.

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