Working in the dental field can be very fulfilling. Dentists and other staff members not only help patients improve their oral health, but can contribute to improving their smiles, which helps boost confidence. While there are many careers within the dental field that work directly with patients, dental assistants have direct patient contact and are an integral part of any dental office. In addition, dental assistants are not required to go to school for years in order to become licensed, so it is a career that can be easily achieved.
What is a dental assistant?
A dental assistant is support staff in a dental office who assists dentists and dental hygienists in providing treatment to patients. This includes a wide variety of responsibilities including sterilizing instruments, preparing patients for treatments, taking impressions, and passing instruments during procedures.
In simplest terms, a dental assistant provides an extra set of hands to ensure that dentists and dental hygienists are able to provide care to patients safely and effectively.
Dental assistants may also be responsible for some administrative duties, such as record keeping, filing, and scheduling appointments. The specific duties vary based on the size of the office and expectations of the dentist(s) who supervise the dental assistant. For example, a dental assistant in a small office may have more varied responsibilities than a dental assistant in a larger office.
There are restrictions on what duties dental assistants can perform. For example, a dental assistant would not be permitted to fill a cavity. This is due to the highly specialized knowledge required to complete these procedures as well as the liability involved for the dental office. If there is a problem, the dentist is responsible for the outcome.
How does someone become a dental assistant?
The education and licensing requirements for dental assistants vary by state. Some do not have formalized training and offer on-the-job training. However, most states require some type educational training and licensure in order to practice.
The training process teaches dental assistants how to do the things they will need to do on a day-to-day basis. However, dental assisting programs also provide important knowledge about infection control. It is important to remember that the dental field is part of the health care field, so there is specialized knowledge needed to be successful.
Once students have gone through an accredited program, they are eligible to apply for licensing, which usually requires an exam. Some states also require on-the-job training for licensure.
In addition, there are typically continuing education requirements in order to maintain a dental assistant license. This ensures that dental assistants have the latest knowledge of the field and are following the high standards set by state licensing boards.
What is the career outlook for a dental assistant?
Salary for dental assistants varies by geography. However, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median pay for dental assistants in 2012 was $34,500 per year or $16.59 per hour. Of course, dental assistants may earn more or less depending on where they work.
The field is expected to grow in the next ten years, as well. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that employment will increase by approximately 25% between now and 2022. This is a rapid employment growth, which suggests that it is a good career option for those wanting to work in the dental field.
Dental assistants are a vital part of dental offices. Not only do they help keep the office running smoothly through administrative tasks and scheduling, but provide an extra set of hands for dentists and dental hygienists to ensure that patients receive safe, quality care at every appointment.
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ECPI University offers a hands-on learning environment as well as an accelerated, year-round schedule that can get you on your way to a career in Dental Assisting. Call us to learn how you could earn an Associate of Applied Science in Health Science with a concentration in Dental Assisting in as little as 1.5 years. It could be the Best Decision You Ever Make!
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