Question

A patient has had procedures in the dental office to improve his periodontal health. The patient had severe periodontal disease and has shown moderate improvement, although he states his “gums are still bleeding.” The patient already has a series of radiographs, a periodontal chart, and intraoral photographs taken before the treatment began. What instruments and forms should the dental assistant have ready for the dentist for this patient’s next examination? What must the dental assistant do during and after the examination?

Answer 1

Instruments to be ready:
-Periodontal probe to measure the depth of the gum around the tooth.
- Mouth mirror to see the mouth inner part of the oral cavity
-Explorer to detect decay in the tooth surface
-Briault probe to see the enamel and dentine.
-Excavator to remove soft dentine, debris, and decay.
- Cotton syringe to stop bleeding and inject analgesics and anesthetic agents.
Forms:
- patient record includes diagnostic information, clinical notes, previous treatment performed, home care instruction and consent to treatment, patient-related communication that occur in the dental office.  
During examination dental assistant assist dentist for the examination by making the patient sit comfort, checking vitals and preparing the patient for the procedure with placing lights and assisting dentist for a various procedure, processing radiographs and keeping sterile instruments ready. Keeping a patient medical record, X-ray film, previous report ready.
After the examination schedule the patient next appointment and record patient progress and make patient information confidential. Clean, sterile and disinfect dental tools after every use. Maintain the dental room clean and safe for the next visit. Educate the patient about home care, medicine follow-up, and clear their queries.