What Is a Dental Assistant?
Dental assistants work closely with and assist dentists with patient care, laboratory duties, and administrative work. They help with the preparation of patient treatment by making sure patients are comfortable, sterilizing instruments, and laying out necessary materials.
During procedures they assist dentists by handing out instruments and using suction devices to keep patients’ mouths dry. Some procedures they are able to conduct independently such as developing dental X-rays, removing sutures, applying gum anesthetics, putting cavity-preventative agents on teeth, placing dental dams, and removing excess cement during fillings. In the lab dental assistants make teeth impressions, create temporary crowns, and clean removable mouth appliances.
Many are also responsible for administrative tasks like updating patient records, confirming appointments, ordering dental supplies, and managing billing procedures. These types of assistants typically work in dental offices during regular business hours, but it is not uncommon for them to work during evenings or weekends to accommodate patients’ schedules.
How to Become a Dental Assistant
Those interested in becoming dental assistants must complete a dental-assisting program. These types of programs are usually available through junior and community colleges and lead to diplomas, certificates, or associate degrees. While enrolled in a dental-assisting program, students learn about the theory behind dental assisting as well as important aspects such as dental terminology, laboratory procedures, and clinical practice. Common courses include dental assisting techniques, dental office practice, oral anatomy, dental records, dental radiology, oral health, and dental office management.
Depending on what state a student wants to work in, they may be required to take a written or practical examination to obtain licensure or certification. On-the-job training is also common in this field as office policies and procedures often differ from one dentist to another.
Many dental assistants begin in entry-level positions within dental offices and gain practical experience before advancing to positions in office management or dental-assisting instruction.
Dental Assistant Career Outlook & Salary
With beautiful smiles and good oral health becoming more of a priority in today’s society, dentists are in need of qualified individuals who can assist them with patients. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, dental assisting is among the fastest growing occupations with employment projected to increase by 36% within the next decade. This is due to a growing population, an increasing awareness of the benefits of preventative dental care, and an expansion of dentists’ workload and services.
While there will be plenty of opportunities for beginning dental assistants seeking entry-level positions, many jobs will also call for experienced assistants who can take on more responsibilities. Those who have completed dental-assisting programs and earned a license or certification will have the best employment opportunities and most lucrative careers.
The Bureau reported that dental assistants earned a median annual salary of $32,380 in May 2008.
