subject: Make Them Smile: Becoming A Dental Assistant [print this page] The duties of a dental assistant can vary but for the most part include caring for patients by preparing them for treatment, making them comfortable in the dental chair, and obtaining medical records. A dental assistant may also assist the dentist during procedures. Other duties of the dental assistant may include disinfecting and prepping the instruments and trays and providing the patient instructions for proper oral care.
With additional education, a dental assistant can perform other services such as taking and processing dental x-rays, or applying anesthetic or cavity-preventive coatings to the patients teeth. The dental assistant might also remove sutures and remove the excess cement created when filling cavities. A dental assistant may also help in the office by performing duties such as scheduling and confirming appointments, sending bills, receiving payments, keeping treatment records accurate and up to date, and ordering supplies.
Education and Skill Requirements for Dental Assistants
In recent years dentists increasingly have demanded that their assistants complete a dental assistant program. In addition, many states have regulations in place that severely limit the duties a dental assistant can perform if he or she has not completed the necessary coursework. Fortunately, dental assistant training programs are widely available through community colleges, junior colleges, technical institutes, and trade schools. (High school students interested in a future career as a dental assistant should take courses in biology, chemistry, health, and office practices.)
According to the Commission on Dental Accreditation, there were 265 approved dental assistant training programs in 2005. These programs offer coursework in areas such as laboratory instruction, dental assisting skills, and preclinical instruction. The majority of these dental assistant programs take just one year or less to complete, although two year programs leading to an associates degree are also available.
Dental assistants must be reliable, work well with others, and have good manual dexterity. Dental assistants often must be licensed or registered and they may be required to pass a written or practical exam. Dental assistants who perform specialized duties such as radiological procedures may have to complete the Radiation Health and Safety examination offered by the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB). In a few states, they may also have to pass a state-approved course in radiology.
Job Outlook for Dental Assistants
The job outlook for dental assistants is excellent. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts, through 2014, that dental assistant will be the third fastest growing occupation for which a four-year degree isn't required. Dental assistants held about 267,000 jobs in 2004. Most worked in dentist's offices while others worked in physicians' offices, educational services, and hospitals. About one-third of all dental assistants worked part-time, sometimes working for more than one dental practice.
Some dental assistants go on to become office managers, dental-assisting instructors, or dental product sales representatives, but opportunities are limited for those without further education. Some dental assistants become dental hygienists after completing additional education.
Salary of Dental Assistants
A survey conducted by the Dental Assisting National Board found that the median salary for a typical Dental Assistant in the United States was $31,739. The hourly pay rate was $15.87 for Oral Surgery Assisting, and $14.97 for General Dentistry. Benefits vary substantially by practice setting and may be contingent upon full-time employment. According to the American Dental Association (ADA), almost all full-time dental assistants employed by private practitioners received paid vacation time. The ADA also found that 9 out of 10 full-time and part-time dental assistants received dental coverage.
Becoming a dental assistant is a smart career choice. Investigate the dental assistant programs available at your local community or career college and get the education you need to work in this stable and rewarding field. And dont forget to floss!
