Gain insight into the essential qualifications, important duties, key responsibilities, and vital skills that form a well-rounded Dental Assistant job description.
What does a Dental Assistant do?
A dental assistant helps with a variety of tasks in a dental office, including taking x-rays and caring for patients. They also help with administrative tasks like filing records and scheduling appointments.
Job Description
We are looking for a dental assistant to join our busy dental practice. Your main responsibilities will include preparing patients for procedures, sterilizing equipment, and helping with dental hygiene tasks. To be successful in this role, you should have a dental x-ray certification and be dedicated to providing excellent patient care.
Job Duties and Responsibilities
- Prepare patients for dental procedures
- Sterilize and disinfect instruments and set up instrument trays
- Assist dentists during procedures
- Help with managing medical and dental emergencies
- Assist dental hygienists when needed
- Provide exceptional patient care
- Record treatment information in patient records
- Take and process dental x-rays
- Educate patients on oral hygiene and plaque control
- Take and record patient vital signs and medical histories
- Provide postoperative instructions as directed by the dentist
- Maintain and care for dental equipment
- Create preliminary impressions and order supplies
- Fabricate temporary restorations and custom impressions
Requirements and Qualifications
- Certification or associate degree from an accredited dental assisting program
- Dental x-ray certification
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Completion of a Dental Hygiene Program
- Experience with basic computer tasks
- Strong communication skills
- Professional appearance and attitude
- Dedication to providing excellent patient care
Dental Assistant Salary
The earning potential of a Dental Assistant can vary significantly based on factors such as geographic location, industry, professional experience, educational background, and the specific employer. On average, the annual salary for an Dental Assistant in the United States is approximately $47428.
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