What Do You Need to Become a Dental Assistant?
A dental assistant is a dentist's second pair of hands. The assistant helps with patient care and laboratory procedures. An individual needs a combination of skills, education and licensure to become a dental assistant. Also, a person must meet qualifications such as being reliable and having great manual dexterity. A dental assistant works approximately 40 hours a week, and according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), in 2008 the median salary for a dental assistant was $32,380 per year.
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Duties
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A dental assistant is responsible for dental instruments and equipment. Before the dentist meets with patients, the assistant places the dental instruments and materials that will be used and also sterilizes the instruments. The dental assistant escorts patients to the dental chair and prepares them for treatment. During dental procedures, the assistant hands the dentist the instruments needed. A dental assistant teaches patients about oral health and postoperative treatment, if required. A dental assistant removes excess cement and sutures. The assistant also mixes materials for dental impressions.
Some dental assistants also have laboratory responsibilities, which include making casts for teeth and temporary crowns. Dental assistants with office duties greet patients, schedule appointments and order dental equipment and supplies.
Skills
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An individual needs the ability to work well with others, including patients and co-workers. The person must be reliable, follow orders and complete tasks. The person must also have manual dexterity and be able to stand for long periods.
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Education
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According to the American Dental Association (ADA), although an individual may start working as an entry-level dental assistant without formal education, a college degree is encouraged. Community colleges offer dental assisting programs, which leads to an associate's degree. There are training programs available, which take a year to complete and lead to a diploma or certificate in dental assisting. The individual learns dental assisting theory and preclinical instruction. Private vocational schools that offer dental assisting programs that last four to six months typically aren't accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA).
Training
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An individual typically receives on-the-job training--whether experienced or not--which may last a few months. During training, the individual learns dental assistant terminology, how to keep the office running efficiently and what daily duties are expected. Also, the dental assistant learns the way the hiring dentist does things in his office and where dental instruments and patient records are located.
Licensure
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A dental assistant who performs additional duties such as radiological procedures must pass a state licensing process. The licensure requirements include completion of an accredited dental assisting program and passing a written exam.
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References
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