Dental Assistant: Responsibilities they Handle Every Day
Dental assistants provide support to dentists. Without them, it would be next to impossible for dentists to perform their duties effectively. If you aspire to work with dentists, helping patients get back their smiles, this position is for you.
You could kick start you career by pursuing a dental assistant associate's degree and getting the required academic qualifications. It is also important that you get an overview of what to expect in the workplace as well as the educational requirements to get there.
Responsibilities of a Dental Assistant
A dental assistant is a health professional who works with and under the supervision of a dentist to ensure the smooth provision of dental treatments. They perform clinical, laboratory as well as administrative tasks, which means that they are not confined to the dentist’s office.
As a dental assistant, you could find work in a variety of institutions ranging from dental clinics, hospitals and insurance companies to dental supply manufacturing companies as sales persons for dental-related products. Below are some of the duties and responsibilities that a dental assistant carries out on a daily basis:
Reception and Preparing Patients for Treatment
As a dental assistant, you form the first point of contact with patients. Dental assistants welcome patients and ensure they are comfortable before treatment commences. They also sit them up comfortably and help them keep their mouths clean and dry using special medical equipment in preparation for treatment. Since dental procedures can be a painful, a dental assistant monitors patients’ condition during and after treatment for any signs of discomfort and physical distress.
Providing Direct Assistance to Dentists
Dentists need equipment during procedures. Dental assistants make sure that all the required tools are available within reach. They set up the necessary equipment prior to treatments and help pass the dentist everything they need during the medical procedure.
Dental assistants also provide a helping hand in holding patients, as the dentist works on them. Some dental assistants are able to offer assistance in carrying out medical procedures. They can conduct administration of fillings, coronal polishing, sealant, and fluoride.
Record keeping and Administrative tasks
Patient’s records are important in enabling efficient provision of healthcare services. Dental assistants interview patients, record their information, and maintain medical records concerning patients’ treatments. This helps dental care service providers track their patients’ oral health as well as provide quality services.
However, the duties of dental assistants don’t end at the clinic or laboratory. They also perform simple administrative tasks that may require the use of computers. These tasks include:
- Oversight of billing
- Ordering of dental supplies and equipment
- Setting up patients’ appointment with the dentist
Sterilization of Equipment and Working Space
Hygiene is critical especially in healthcare facilities. Dental assistants ensure that the dentist’s working area as well as dental equipment used during treatment are properly sterilized to keep infections at bay. They are in charge of ensuring patients are treated in a safe environment using equally safe instruments.
Patient Education and Instruction
Dental assistants provide education to patients on oral hygiene and safe oral practices like brushing and flossing. This goes a long way in alleviating present dental woes and preventing future problems.
They also explain complex medical information to patients and relay instructions in a simple and easy to understand manner. In case of queries after treatment, the dental assistant provides clarification and answers for the patient’s concerns.
Taking Dental Radiographs and Impressions of Patients’ Teeth
Under the instruction of a dentist, a dental assistant takes and develop dental X-rays as well as impressions of patients’ teeth. They also assist in making molds including trimming and polishing study casts.
Why is Formal Training Important in This Field?
Formal education is the way to go if you want quick entry into the job market. You could acquire the desired training by taking a certificate, diploma, or a degree program. A dental assistant associate’s degree offers holistic training and an opportunity to eventually advance your career and become a dental hygienist.
An associate’s degree will take you 2 years or less, if you look at accelerated programs, and should equip you with all the knowledge required in your place of work. Some of the core areas covered include radiographic procedures, clinical and administrative procedures, all of which address the daily duties of a dental assistant. Accelerated programs will help you complete your studies earlier with both classroom knowledge and practical experience in dental assisting.
Is Working as A Dental Assistant for You?
Are you the right fit for the dental assistant field? ECPI University offers an Associate of Applied Science in Health Science with a Concentration in Dental Assisting. For more information about this exciting opportunity, connect with a helpful admissions advisor today.
It could be the Best Decision You Ever Make!
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Gainful Employment Information – Dental Assisting - Associate’s
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