Who does what in the dental profession?

Dental practitioners can work in private practice, corporate clinics, public or community health settings, public and private hospitals, Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations, and non-government organisations (NGOs).

Can provide mentorship or continuing professional development.

May determine the clinical scope of practice within their workplace i.e. practice may be amalgam-free, or requiring all endodontic treatment to be referred rather than providing the treatment onsite.

Help members to provide safe, high quality oral healthcare through education and standards for professional practice.

These organisations:

• Develop guidance and provide professional practice support for their members.
• Advocate for their members and the profession.
• Offer continuing professional development (CPD).
• Promote the profession and recommend best practice.

Community members and advocates play an important role in ensuring health practitioners are meeting the needs of patients and the public they serve.

Community members and advocates are involved in many parts of the health care system, including through organisations such as Consumers Health Forum of Australia and also in roles across the National Scheme.