Latest release
Unit Group

2692 Dentists and Dental Specialists

OSCA - Occupation Standard Classification for Australia
Reference period
2024, Version 1.0

2692 Dentists and Dental Specialists

Diagnose and treat dental disease, restore normal oral function using a broad range of treatments such as surgery and other specialist techniques, and advise on oral health.

Oral and maxillofacial surgeons are included in this unit group.

OSCA skill level

The occupations in this unit group have a skill level corresponding to the qualifications and experience below.

  • Skill Level 1: Bachelor Degree, higher qualification, or at least five years of relevant experience
Occupation

269231 Dental Specialist

Diagnoses and treats diseases, injuries, irregularities and malformations of teeth and associated structures in the mouth and jaw using surgery and other specialist techniques.

Registration or licensing is required.

Specialisations

  • Endodontist
  • Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon
  • Oral Pathologist
  • Orthodontist
  • Paedodontist
  • Periodontist
  • Prosthodontist

Skill level: 1

Main tasks

  • Examines patients' teeth, gums and related facial structures to diagnose and treat complex dental conditions caused by injuries, decay or malformations of the teeth and mouth
  • Performs and interprets dental radiographs (X-rays) and other diagnostic tests
  • Prescribes medications and administers anaesthesia to patients as necessary
  • Collaborates with other dental professionals to develop treatment plans, explain them to patients, and monitor progress
  • May surgically remove teeth or tumours, and perform restorative and cosmetic oral and maxillofacial surgery on patients
  • May use specialised techniques to make dental prostheses and orthodontic devices for aesthetic and functional correction
Occupation

269232 Dentist

Diagnoses and treats dental disease, injuries, decay and malformations of the teeth, periodontal tissue (gums), hard and soft tissue found on the mouth, and other dentofacial structures using surgery and other techniques.

Registration or licensing is required.

Alternative title

  • Dental Surgeon

Skill level: 1

Main tasks

  • Examines patients' teeth and mouths to diagnose and treat dental diseases, injuries or decay
  • Performs routine dental surgeries and other procedures, such as fillings and crowns, to treat dental conditions
  • Restores and replaces missing or damaged teeth
  • Performs cosmetic dental procedures to improve the appearance of patients' teeth
  • Prescribes medications and administers local anaesthesia to patients as necessary
  • Educates patients on proper oral hygiene and preventive dental care
  • Refers patients with complex issues to Dental Specialists for specialised treatment
  • May conduct surgical procedures such as tooth extractions or root canals