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Duties Of A Dental Assistants
May 14th, 2010 by admin
The duties of a dental assistants are varied and wide ranging from providing patient care to performing both laboratory and office duties. It should be noted, however, that they do not perform the services that a qualified dental hygienist is licensed to perform.
The majority work in dentist practices although some are employed by physicians or by the government. Most learn their skills through work although there are dental programmes offered by trade schools and junior colleges. It would be an advantage to take sciences in high school if you are thinking of having a future career as a dental assistant.
Some states require dental assistants to be registered and pass a practical or written examination. If they perform duties such as radiological procedures then they will generally need to pass examination by the Dental Assisting National Board.
Some enter other field such as sales reps, office managers or instructors within the dental industry although further education and qualification is normally required.
Career prospects appear good and this occupational area is predicted to expand faster than any other in the next few years according to U. S. Bureau of Labour Statistics.
For someone delivering patient care, a normal day would involve ensuring patients dental records are available and that they were okay when in the dentists chair by making them comfortable and preparing any necessary treatments.
Dental assistants will make sure that all equipment is suitable for use and has been sterilised and that the dentists tray is prepared to carry out the necessary treatments. They will also assist the dentist by handed the correct instruments as requested and ensuring the patients mouth remains dry using suction. After treatment, they will advise on any aftercare and/or give general oral health advice.
They will sometimes prepare materials for procedures such as restoration, making impressions, processing x-rays etc. As directed by the dentist. Occasionally, an assistant will remove stitches, give anaesthetics, remove excess fillings and isolate teeth with rubber dams for individual treatment.
A normal day in the laboratory will include making casts from impressions; cleaning and polishing removable appliances and making temporary crowns whereas the duties of a dental assistant who performs office duties will make appointments, meet and greet patients, maintain dental treatment records, prepare accounts and receive payments and last but not least order supplies and materials.