About

What does it mean to be a dental assistant?

A dental assistant is an important, integral member of the dental team. The team can consist of dentists, dental assistants and receptionists, and may also include: specialist dentists and oral surgeons, oral health therapists, dental hygienists, dental therapists, dental prosthetists, dental technicians and practice managers.

Duties

A dental assistant’s role is to provide assistance at the chairside for a range of procedures. The duties are of a supportive nature and are supervised by the operator with whom you are working. You may assist with:

• preparation of the surgery
• meeting and greeting clients
• ensuring patient comfort
• recording the condition of their mouth either electronically or manually
• assisting with preventive treatments including teeth cleaning, fluoride applications, fissure sealants, teeth whitening procedures and mouthguards
• assisting during restorative procedures – these may include simple fillings, through to root canal treatment
• crown and bridgework, implants and full mouth reconstructions

Other duties you would be involved in are:

• the maintenance of infection control
• instrument sterilization
• care and maintenance of all instruments and equipment
• processing of dental radiographs
• reception and administrative duties including appointment making and practice accounts
• stock control

Attributes needed to be a dental assistant

To be an efficient dental assistant you will need the following:

• manual dexterity
• communication skills
• caring and empathetic to clients’ needs
• patience and tolerance
• organisational skills
• time management skills
• willingness to learn