The primary responsibility of a dental assistant is to prepare a dental office for patient visits, but he or she may also perform minor tasks such as filing, reading and developing x-rays, and preparing dental molds and tooth impressions. These tasks free up the dentist and hygienist to concentrate solely on patient care. Although dental assistants rarely receive formal training, they typically gain a good understanding of common procedures and practices while on the job. They can take a more active role in patient care when necessary, though the majority of their work is usually done “behind the scenes.”
Cleaning and set-up responsibilities
Preparing exam rooms setting out instruments and ensuring general cleanliness is one of the most common assistant responsibilities. For example, the assistant will double-check that all tools are present and operational, as well as that supplies such as toothpaste, fluoride rinse, and plastic gloves are in stock.
The assistant is usually in charge of cleaning and re-arranging the space after an exam. This usually entails sterilizing all of the equipment used, as well as dusting, sweeping, and mopping. Assistants typically turn off all appliances and close the office at the end of the day.
Patients and Interaction
Although dental assistants don’t usually provide direct patient care, that doesn’t mean they can’t interact with the public. Depending on the practice, assistants may be in charge of escorting patients to exam rooms and preparing them — for example, providing a protective bib or mouthwash for a pre-cleaning rinse.
A dental assistant is likely to be encountered patients who require impressions of their teeth. Mold preparation and filling is generally simple, but it must be done in a specific manner to ensure good results. Assistants are usually in charge of taking the impression and filling in the mold, which are then handed over to the dentist in charge for further examination.
Work on the technical side
The majority of dental assistants are also trained to take and develop dental x-rays. X-rays are frequently completed at the start of an exam; while the dentist or hygienist is working with the patient, the assistant is usually developing and processing the film in the back. In this manner, if a problem arises, new shots can be taken. While the patient is still in the office, the finished slides can be reviewed an expert, and a diagnosis can be made without any lengthy interruptions in care.
The Primary Distinctions Between Hygienists and Assistants
Dental assistants and dental hygienists are often confused because they perform many of the same tasks in terms of set-up and basic patient care, but their training and job responsibilities are vastly different. Hygienists are dental professionals who have completed specialized training. They aren’t doctors, so they can’t make diagnoses or treat major illnesses; however, they can usually recognize them and make recommendations to the dentist in charge. Hygienists are often in charge of patient cleanings, as well as assisting with more complicated procedures such as cavity fillings and root canals.
A dental assistant is rarely qualified to provide direct patient care, and doing so is frequently illegal under state or federal law. Most countries regulate dental care requiring specialized degrees or administering qualifying exams. While hygienists are usually required to be certified, assistants can often work with little or no experience.
Requirements for Education and Training
Dental assistants typically do not have the same formal training requirements as hygienists or dentists, and hiring decisions are made at the discretion of individual practice managers. A high school diploma is typically required, with some form of postsecondary education considered an asset. Dental assistant and medical assistant programs are available at some community colleges and trade schools, with the majority of them leading to an associate’s degree. Many schools have career offices that will arrange interviews and identify options for qualified students. This type of training is often very helpful both in terms of meeting job qualifications and in terms of finding open positions in the first place.