If you’re interested in going to dental assistant school to start a new career, you have a lot you’re going to learn. One major area of focus you’ll have in school is dental charting. The following guide offers an inside look into this subject so you know what to expect once classes start. 

What Is Dental Charting & What Does It Entail?

A dental chart is a crucial part of a medical file. Essentially, it’s where all the information on a patient’s oral health is stored. It is updated about twice a year during their bi-annual checkups. 

The dental chart includes updates on the state of the teeth and gums. During your courses in dental assistant school, you’ll learn how to take pictures of the teeth with an X-ray. These pictures measure each tooth, as well as scan for issues like cavities, chips or cracked teeth, pockets in the gums, and inflammation. 

Why Is Dental Charting Important?

Part of the reason why charting is such a major part of dental assistant school is because of how important it is for the patients. Keeping an accurate database of each patient’s medical history is crucial to ensure accurate diagnoses and prescribe the most effective treatments. 

Dental charts also make it easier for professionals to manage their patients’ progress. Having a single file that includes all the information pertaining to the client’s issues, treatments, and changes ensures that no crucial information is missing or skipped over during each appointment. 

To learn more about dental charting, talk to the team at Westchester School for Dental Assistants. Located in Elmsford, NY, the faculty members at this institution are committed to ensuring each student is equipped with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed after graduation. Visit their website to learn more about their courses, and call (914) 682-9001 to schedule a tour of this dental assistant school today.