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The Basic Responsibilities Of A Dental Assistant
A dental assistant helps a dentist during dental procedures by handing the dentist instruments and operating a suction device. They also perform other tasks such as preparing a patient for treatment, overseeing the cleaning and sterilization of instruments, taking impressions and exposing x-rays. In summary, the assistant does those tasks that enable the dentist to focus more on the patient and the procedure that is underway rather than having to attend to other duties that are easily handled by others. In some instances an assistant will also handle front desk duties such as answering the telephone, scheduling appointments and overseeing supplies and deliveries. The scope of an assistant’s responsibility will usually depend on the size of the clinic and how many other assistants are employed.
Courses offered differ from one institution to another, although certain basic courses are taught. These include courses on first-aid and CPR, clinical chair side assistance, an overview of the dental profession, instruction on the various instruments used and vocabulary used in the dental profession, infection control, basic anatomy including more detailed anatomy of the head and throat regions, and instruction on how to perform basic business administration tasks.
Whether or not a dental assistant needs a degree differs from state to state, although it is highly recommended even if it is not required that an assistant receives certification. Currently there are around 200 accredited schools in the United States offering training courses in this field. After training via an accredited course, an assistant will need to pass a written four-hour exam that is administered by the Dental Assisting National Board. If a person received on the job training, or trained at a non-accredited college they must first have two years of on the job work experience before being eligible to take the examination. Passing this exam and receiving certification will guarantee better job opportunities and a higher monthly salary.
As with other medical related professions, this position is fairly stable; there are always people needing dental care. Job satisfaction is usually high, as not only is it a rewarding profession but it is also a fairly high-paying position that affords plenty of chances for additional training.