Overview
Helps to provide direct patient care in all dental specialties, including orthodontics, pediatric dentistry, periodontics and oral surgery.
Responsibilities
Assists the dentist during a variety of treatment procedures, including the preparation and arrangement of needed tools and instruments for scheduled procedures. Hands necessary tools and equipment to the dentist and provides assistance during treatment.
Records findings, change barriers, or sterilize equipment.
Takes and develops dental radiographs (x-rays). May also take impressions of patients' teeth for study casts (models of teeth).
May ask about the patient's medical history and takes blood pressure and pulse.
Serves as an infection control officer, developing infection control protocol and preparing and sterilizing instruments and equipment.
Helps patients feel comfortable before, during and after dental treatment.
Provides patients with instructions for oral care following surgery or other dental treatment procedures, such as the placement of a restoration (filling).
Teaches patients appropriate oral hygiene strategies to maintain oral health; (e.g., tooth brushing, flossing and nutritional counseling).
Performs office management tasks that often require the use of a personal computer
Communicates with patients and suppliers (e.g., scheduling appointments, answering the telephone, billing and ordering supplies)
Performs other duties as required or assigned.
Qualifications
- High school diploma and associate’s degree or postsecondary certification (non-degree award) in dental assistance
- 1 year of experience in dental assisting
Required Licensure/Certifications
- Dental radiology certification (i.e., DANB CDA or minimum DANB)