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A dental assistant usually stands by the dentist and makes sure his work field is always clear and ready. He or she knows in details the steps for a treatment and passes the appropriate instruments to the dentist. The dental assistant also makes sure there is no saliva in the patient's mouth by constantly using the suction.
Depending on which country, state or province you live in, dental assistants can do additional things if the law lets them: taking impressions, taking x-rays, doing dental scellants, polishing fillings, polishing teeth.
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What are some similar jobs to being a dental hygienist?
Other workers supporting health practitioners in an office setting include dental assistants, medical assistants, occupational therapist assistants and aides, physical therapist assistants and aides, physician assistants, and registered nurses. Dental hygienists sometimes work with radiation technology, as do radiation therapists.
What is a dental assistant?
A dental assistant is a person that assist the dentist in chair side procedures. They often seat a patient, set up the room for procedures, expose and develops x-ray films, they then clean the room sanitize and sterilize the used equipment.
What training does a dental asst need?
A large number of dental assistants learn through on-the-job training. In these situations, the employing dentist or other dental assistants in the dental office teach the new assistant dental terminology, the names of the instruments, how to perform daily duties, how to interact with patients, and other things necessary to help keep the dental office running smoothly.
What is dental assistant?
Dental assistant work with dentist. He works closely with patients and provides assistance to dentist during treatment procedures. He also take the x-ray and perform office management. Generally dental assistants hold diploma in dental assistant.
How much does a dental assistant in Alabama earn?
Dental assistants in Alabama earn about $30,000 per year. Those that work in larger cities in Alabama can expect to earn more.
How to Start a Career as a Dental Assistant?
Are you considering becoming a dental assistant? In today’s tough economic climate, beginning a career as a dental assistant will prove to be a smart decision because there are many job opportunities in the field. Better yet, the demand for dental assistants will only continue to increase in the future. In fact, the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics says the increasing demand will lead to the creation of over 80,000 new dental assistant jobs through 2016. Dental assistants are so essential because they help dentists and dental hygienists operate their offices. Primarily, their job consists of welcoming patients and preparing the examination rooms and equipment. Dental assistants work flexible hours and receive competitive pay. Some dental assistants work full time while many others work part time during either the day or the evening. The average yearly salary for a dental assistant is approximately $33,000. First, before entering the workforce, you must go to school. Most dental assisting programs require their students to have a high school diploma or GED. Some dental assistants choose to attend one-year certificate programs while others opt to obtain a two-year associate’s degree in dental assisting. In training, students learn how to take care of patients and how to keep and maintain dental records. Students learn in lecture halls, laboratories, and real dental care offices. Programs differ across the country, and some offer their students the option of taking night classes if it better suits their schedule. In addition, experts recommend aspiring dental assistants receive further practical training after they graduate school. Because of the evolving nature of dental care technology, it is crucial for dental assistants to know how to operate all tools and how to carry out procedures. Most of this training can occur through internship programs or on the job. After training, you will be ready to take the certification test. Most states require dental assistants be certified by the Dental Assisting National Board. The exam consists of both a written and a practical (hands on) portion. While only 30 states certification, it does give dental assistants everywhere a leg up in the job market. Certification proves you have what it takes to be a quality dental assistant.
Dental Assistant?
Dental assistants perform many duties within a dental office. They perform administrative work such as billing, scheduling and some light office work. In addition to helping the office run smoothly they also assist with dentistry and may help the dentist during procedures. They also are responsible for helping patients after dental visits and instruct them on what to do following dental work such as care or medicines as needed. Some of the other tasks dental assistants perform include giving patients anesthesia, prep work before procedures or taking molds of the teeth while the dentist works. Due to the variety of tasks dental assistants must be able to handle standing, bending, stooping and carrying objects. Assistants must also be able to interact with patients clearly in a friendly manner and for those who work with children must be able to function in a calm manner regardless of what happens. Some assistants may also help with actual dental work if they have been properly licensed and trained. This additional training may be optional depending on where the job is located but some dental offices may require it in order to perform the job to its fullest. Average salaries for dental assistants start at $29,000 for entry level up to $37,000 for experienced assistants. Salary is often determined by location and duties performed. The amount of training received can lead to an increase in responsibilities and a higher salary. Some dental assistants may wish to attain experience and certification in advanced procedures and training on using additional equipment to better perform their job. Education necessary to become a dental assistant varies between states and the jobs performed. Often an Associate degree is required or a diploma from a licensed school to become a dental assistant. Training combines lectures with hands-on learning in office management, dental procedures and how to use X-ray equipment and radiography. Locations where dental assistants will find work include private practice dental offices, hospitals that offer emergency dental care, outreach offices and clinics.
Salary for dental assistants in NC?
A dental assistant makes around 55,000 dollars a year in North Carolina. There is little room for advancement but those who work for a long time in a practice may have pay raises.
Get Scholarships from Your Office?
Many dental assistants were former secretaries or bookkeepers in a dental office. The reason they decide to attend school is due to a scholarship program in the office. You should always try to seek out scholarship opportunities from a business that you currently work at. If you work at a dental office, ask if the office can contribute to your school expenses.
What is the difference between dental assistant and dental hygienist?
Training: Dental assistants typically complete a dental assisting program, which can vary in length but is typically shorter than the education required for dental hygienists. Job Role: Dental assistants work closely with dentists, providing support during dental procedures. They may assist with tasks such as taking patient x-rays, sterilizing instruments, preparing materials, taking impressions, and providing chairside assistance. Duties: Dental assistants often perform administrative duties, such as scheduling appointments, maintaining patient records, and billing. They may also provide patient education on oral hygiene and postoperative care. Supervision: Dental assistants work under the direct supervision of dentists, following their instructions and assisting in various aspects of patient care. Specializations: Some dental assistants may pursue additional certifications or training to specialize in areas such as orthodontics or oral surgery. Dental Hygienist: Education: Dental hygienists typically complete a dental hygiene program, which is typically a two-year associate's degree program or a four-year bachelor's degree program. Job Role: Dental hygienists focus on preventive oral care and patient education. They perform tasks such as cleaning teeth, removing plaque and tartar, taking x-rays, applying fluoride treatments, and conducting oral health assessments. Duties: Dental hygienists play a crucial role in educating patients about proper oral hygiene practices, offering guidance on diet and lifestyle choices that impact oral health, and identifying signs of gum disease or other oral health issues. Supervision: Dental hygienists work under the supervision of a dentist but have more autonomy in their role compared to dental assistants. They often work independently and have more direct patient interaction. Licensing and Regulations: Dental hygienists must be licensed in the state where they practice and adhere to specific regulations and guidelines set by their licensing board. Continuing Education: Dental hygienists are often required to complete continuing education courses to stay updated on the latest techniques, research, and advancements in dental hygiene. While both dental assistants and dental hygienists play important roles in dental care, dental assistants provide support during dental procedures, while dental hygienists focus on preventive care and patient education.
What is the official name of a person that is involved with dental assisting?
The people who assist the dentists with their procedures and do all of the prep work on patients are literally called "Dental Assistants." As obvious as the terminology may seem, that is the official name for the position.
Are dental assistants sales workers?
Dental assistants perform a variety of patient care, office, and laboratory duties. They work chairside as dentists examine and treat patients. They make patients as comfortable as possible in the dental chair, prepare them for treatment, and obtain their dental records. Assistants hand instruments and materials to dentists and keep patients' mouths dry and clear by using suction or other devices. Assistants also sterilize and disinfect instruments and equipment, prepare trays of instruments for dental procedures, and instruct patients on postoperative and general oral health care. Some dental assistants prepare materials for impressions and restorations, take dental x rays, and process x-ray film as directed by a dentist. They also may remove sutures, apply topical anesthetics to gums or cavity-preventive agents to teeth, remove excess cement used in the filling process, and place rubber dams on the teeth to isolate them for individual treatment. Those with laboratory duties make casts of the teeth and mouth from impressions, clean and polish removable appliances, and make temporary crowns. Dental assistants with office duties schedule and confirm appointments, receive patients, keep treatment records, send bills, receive payments, and order dental supplies and materials. Dental assistants should not be confused with dental hygienists, who are licensed to perform different clinical tasks.
