Dental Assistants

The work

Core tasks

1. 01Prepare patient, sterilize or disinfect instruments, set up instrument trays, prepare materials, or assist dentist during dental procedures.
2. 02Record treatment information in patient records.
3. 03Assist dentist in management of medical or dental emergencies.
4. 04Order and monitor dental supplies and equipment inventory.
5. 05Expose dental diagnostic x-rays.
6. 06Provide postoperative instructions prescribed by dentist.
7. 07Instruct patients in oral hygiene and plaque control programs.
8. 08Take and record medical and dental histories and vital signs of patients.
9. 09Apply protective coating of fluoride to teeth.
10. 10Schedule appointments, prepare bills and receive payment for dental services, complete insurance forms, and maintain records, manually or using computer.
11. 11Make preliminary impressions for study casts and occlusal registrations for mounting study casts.
12. 12Pour, trim, and polish study casts.

Capabilities

Essential skills

Employment outlook

Where the role is heading