Table 1.

Qualification, duration of training, and skills of dental professionals in Germany (ascending qualification grading)

Job title	Qualification and duration of training	Acquired skills
ZFA (Zahnmedizinische/r Fachangestellte/r)	Dual apprenticeship in practice/clinic and vocational college Duration: 3 years	Care of patients Perform prophylaxis measures Assist with treatments Implement hygiene measures Detect infectious diseases Measures to avoid infections Hygiene measures for practice, workplace and own person
ZMP (Zahnmedizinische/r Prophylaxeassistent/in)	Qualification as a ZFA as a prerequisite At least 1 year of professional experience First aid course Expertise in radiation protection Total hours: 736	Anamnesis and diagnosis Instruction and motivation of patients for behavioral education in brushing and flossing Creating an individual oral hygiene plan Implementation of treatment measures within the scope of the included periodontitis therapy (professional tooth cleaning)
ZMF (Zahnmedizinische/r Fachassistent/in)	Qualification as a ZFA as a prerequisite At least 2 years of professional experience First aid course Expertise in radiation protection Total hours: 826	Instruction and motivation of patients for behavioral education Performing professional tooth cleaning Performing prophylactic measures Assistance with treatments
DH (Dentalhygieniker/in)	Qualification as ZMP with at least 400 h and at least 1 year professional experience as ZMP First aid course Completion of three basic course units Expertise in radiation protection Total hours: 800	Anamnesis and diagnosis of patients Diagnosis of oral diseases Implementation of treatment measures within the scope of the included periodontitis therapy (professional tooth cleaning)