Dental assistants work closely with dentists as they treat patients. Before dentists see their patients, assistants clean and sterilize the dental equipment and set up trays for dental procedures. When patients are brought into the treatment room, dental assistants try to make them feel as relaxed as possible.
Once patients are seated, the assistant places a paper “bib” on them so their clothes stay clean. The dental assistant then informs the dentist that the patient is ready. As the dentist examines the patient’s teeth, the assistant stands nearby and passes instruments and other equipment to the dentist as needed. The dental assistant also operates a suctioning device to keep the patient’s mouth dry during the examination or treatment.
Dental assistants may also have additional duties. For instance, they may take x-rays of the patient’s mouth, apply topical anesthesia to lessen pain, or make casts of the teeth and mouth from impressions taken by the dentist. Depending on their qualifications, they may also remove sutures or stitches after a procedure.
After the dentist has finished working on the patient, the dental assistant provides the patient with information on maintaining oral hygiene. The assistant also records the results of the patient’s exam and treatment in their file.
In some situations, dental assistants may book appointments for patients, restock dental supplies, take payments, and do filing.
NOC Code: 3411