A General Dentist Practitioner is a healthcare professional responsible for diagnosing, preventing, and treating oral health conditions and diseases. They provide comprehensive dental care to patients of all ages, ensuring the maintenance of good oral hygiene and addressing both routine and complex dental issues. This role requires excellent clinical skills, patient care, and adherence to ethical and professional standards as outlined by the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) .
General Responsibilities
- Patient Examination and Diagnosis
- Conduct comprehensive oral examinations, including dental charting and radiographic imaging (X-rays)
- Diagnose dental conditions such as tooth decay, gum disease, infections, malocclusions, and oral cancers
- Develop and explain treatment plans tailored to the patient's needs
- Preventive Dental Care
- Educate patients on proper oral hygiene practices, including brushing, flossing, and diet
- Perform professional cleanings (prophylaxis), scaling, and fluoride applications
- Provide advice and services for preventive dentistry, such as dental sealants and regular check-ups
- Restorative and Therapeutic Treatments
- Restore teeth affected by decay, trauma, or disease using fillings, crowns, bridges, and veneers
- Perform endodontic procedures such as root canal treatments
- Extract teeth when necessary and provide follow-up care
- Periodontal (Gum) Treatment
- Diagnose and treat gum diseases, such as gingivitis and periodontitis
- Offer non-surgical and surgical treatment options, including scaling, root planing, and soft tissue management
- Prosthodontic Services
- Design, create, and fit dentures, partials, and other prosthetic devices
- Provide adjustments and repairs for dental prostheses
- Minor Oral Surgery
- Perform tooth extractions (including wisdom teeth where appropriate) and other minor surgical procedures
- Manage post-operative care and potential complications
- Orthodontic and Cosmetic Treatments
- Conduct initial evaluations for orthodontic treatment (aligning teeth and correcting bite issues)
- Perform cosmetic dental procedures, such as teeth whitening and bonding
- Emergency Dental Care
- Provide immediate care for dental emergencies such as broken teeth, infections, or severe pain
- Manage traumatic injuries to the teeth and surrounding tissues
- Patient Records and Administration
- Maintain accurate patient records, including diagnoses, treatments, and follow-up care
- Stay compliant with HPCSA regulations and ethical standards
- Collaborate with other healthcare professionals, when necessary, for interdisciplinary care
- Infection Control and Safety
- Ensure all clinical procedures comply with hygiene, sterilization, and infection control protocols
- Follow strict safety standards for radiation exposure during X-rays and other equipment use
- Continuous Professional Development
- Stay updated with advances in dental technologies, treatments, and techniques
- Participate in continued education and training programs to maintain HPCSA registration
Skills And Competencies
- Clinical Expertise: Strong diagnostic and procedural skills in all aspects of general dentistry
- Patient-Centered Care: Ability to communicate effectively, educate, and build trust with patients
- Problem-Solving: Proficiency in addressing dental issues efficiently and empathetically
- Attention to Detail: High precision and focus during treatments
- Interpersonal Skills: Ability to work well with diverse patients, families, and team members
- Adaptability: Flexibility to handle emergencies, complex cases, and new dental technologies
Requirements
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Positive attitude with a focus on providing excellent patient care
- Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) or equivalent degree from a recognised institution
- Registration with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA)
- Ability to work with Dental loupes in order to achieve meticulous examination of the oral cavity and allow for more precise patient intervention
- Valid practicing license and compliance with professional regulations
- CPR and Basic Life Support (BLS) certification
- Experience in general dentistry practice is preferred, but not required
- Attitude is as important as skill set for this role
- Committed to professional development.
- 0-5 experience working as a General Dental Practitioner.
Benefits
We offer a competitive salary and a supportive work environment that values teamwork, collaboration, and personal development:
- This position operates on a commission basis
- You will engage in an independent contract, allowing you to set your own working hours
- Expenses for consumables will be divided among the team
- You will be working as an independent healthcare provider within an established practice
- As you advance in this role, there is an opportunity for profit sharing and potential partnership
- This position offers a chance for professional development in a mentorship setting
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