For each unit of time, a pattern of time can be defined that shows the requirement for a dentist practitioner for the procedure, and is indicated as Xs (x), slashes (/), or periods (.). The time pattern assists in determining the length of time an appointment requires when a procedure is entered in an appointment on the Scheduler’s Add/Edit screen. It will also indicate in the left column of the Scheduler screen when a provider is and isn’t available for booking. Scheduler units of time are defined in the Offices section of the Setup.
An “x” indicates a provider could be double booked in different operatories without the Scheduler determining the provider is not available. The “x” indicates time in which a dental assistant is monitoring and/or working with the patient (i.e., taking x-rays). Therefore, the provider is not indicated as required in the operatory for the designated length of time for the procedure.
A “’/” identifies time in which the provider is required and cannot be in booked in another operatory.
A “.” designates anesthesia time in which the doctor does not have to be physically present in the operatory. During this time, the patient is achieving numbness from local anesthesia.
For example, in an office that utilizes 15 minute intervals and the procedure is marked for 60 minutes total, “D2330 – Resin-Based Composite – One Surface, Anterior” could be indicated as “x.//” This designation indicates the first 15 minutes are dental assistant time, the second 15 minutes are for anesthesia, and the final two segments of 15 minutes
