What Does a Dental Assistant Do?

Are you considering a rewarding career in the dental field but need help figuring out where to start? Dental assisting might be the perfect path for you. Dental assistants play a crucial role in the smooth operation of dental practices, providing essential support to dentists and ensuring patients receive the best care possible. This blog we will explore what a dental assistant does, the skills needed to excel in this profession, and how Reeves College's Dental Assisting Diploma can equip you with the expertise to succeed.?? ?

What Is a Dental Assistant??? ?

A dental assistant is a vital member of the dental healthcare team who works closely with dentists and dental hygienists to provide comprehensive oral care to patients. They perform various tasks ranging from clinical duties such as assisting during dental procedures to administrative responsibilities like scheduling appointments and maintaining patient records. Dental assistants ensure that dental offices run efficiently and that patients have a comfortable and positive experience during their visits.?? ?

What Does a Dental Assistant Do??? ?

The role of a dental assistant is multifaceted, combining both patient care and administrative functions. Here are some of the key responsibilities:?? ?

Assisting During Procedures: Dental assistants prepare the treatment room and help the dentist during procedures by handing instruments, suctioning, and keeping the patient's mouth dry.?? ?

Preparing Patients: They help patients feel at ease before, during, and after dental procedures, explaining what to expect and answering questions. Taking X-rays Dental assistants may accept and process dental radiographs (X-rays), which are essential for diagnosing dental conditions.?? ?

Sterilizing Instruments: Ensuring all dental instruments and equipment are adequately sterilized and organized is critical to maintaining a safe clinical environment.?? ?

Infection Control: They follow strict protocols to prevent infection spread, including properly handling instruments and materials.?? ?

Scheduling Appointments: Managing the dental office's appointment calendar to ensure efficient patient flow.?? ?

Maintaining Records: Updating and maintaining patient dental records, including treatment plans and medical histories.? ?

Billing and Insurance: Assisting with billing procedures and processing insurance claims.?? ?

Patient Communication: Communicating post-operative instructions and educating patients on oral hygiene practices.?? ?

Skills You Need to Become a Dental Assistant?? ?

Success as a dental assistant requires combining technical knowledge and soft skills. Here are some of the critical competencies:??? ?

Communication Skills?? ?

Effective verbal and non-verbal communication are essential for interacting with patients and the dental team. Dental assistants must be able to explain procedures, provide instructions, and ease patient anxiety.?? ?

Attention to Detail?? ?

Precision is crucial in dental procedures. Dental assistants must meticulously handle instruments, record their work, and follow protocols to ensure patient safety and effective treatment.?? ?

Manual Dexterity?? ?

Working in the confined space of a patient's mouth requires steady hands and good hand-eye coordination. Dental assistants often handle small instruments and need to perform tasks efficiently.?? ?

Organizational Skills?? ?

Managing appointments, maintaining inventory, and keeping accurate records demand organizational solid abilities. Being organized helps the dental office run smoothly and improves patient care.?? ?

Technical Proficiency?? ?

Familiarity with dental software, equipment, and radiography techniques is essential for efficiency and effectiveness. Dental assistants should be comfortable with the technology used in modern dental practices.?? ?

Empathy and Compassion?? ?

Understanding patient concerns and providing compassionate care enhances the overall patient experience. Dental assistants often help alleviate patient fears and ensure comfort during procedures.?? ?

Teamwork?? ?

Dental assistants work closely with dentists, hygienists, and office staff. A cooperative team member is essential for providing high-quality care and maintaining a positive work environment.?? ?

Dental Assisting Diploma by Reeves College?? ?

Embarking on a career as a dental assistant starts with quality education and training. Reeves College offers a comprehensive Dental Assisting Diploma program to equip you with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in this field.??? ?

Comprehensive Curriculum: The 45-week program covers Level I and Level II dental assisting training in one extensive course. You will study dental radiography, preventive dentistry, oral facial science, dental pharmacology, infection control, and more.?? ?

Hands-On Training: Reeves College emphasizes practical experience. You will gain valuable hands-on training that prepares you for real-world scenarios in dental offices.?? ?

State-of-the-Art Facilities: Train in modern dental labs equipped with the latest technology, including digital x-rays and dental software, to simulate real-world environments.?? ?

High Success Rate: Graduates from the Edmonton South campus achieved a 100% passing rate on the National Dental Assisting Examination Board (NDAEB) Written Examination. *? ?

Career Support: Reeves College’s dedicated career services team is here to support students every step of the way, providing a range of resources and personalized guidance to achieve career goals. While they cannot guarantee employment, they offer various valuable services to enhance job search and position students for success in the competitive job market.? ?

Reeves College's Dental Assisting Diploma program provides the technical training required and focuses on developing the soft skills necessary for success. The program is designed to meet the regulations set by the College of Alberta Dental Assistants, ensuring you are fully prepared for certification and licensing.?? ?

Career Opportunities and Wages?? ?

The demand for dental assistants is on the rise, making it a promising career choice. According to the Alberta Learning Information Service (ALIS), dental assistants in Alberta earn an average wage of $29.84 per hour, with an average annual salary of $50,403. Wages can vary based on factors like experience, location, and level of certification. **?? ?

A career as a dental assistant offers a fulfilling opportunity to positively impact patients' oral health while working in a dynamic and collaborative environment. With the proper training and dedication, you can embark on a profession that is both personally rewarding and in high demand. Reeves College's Dental Assisting Diploma provides a solid foundation to launch your career. From comprehensive coursework to hands-on experience and support in passing the NDAEB exam, the program is structured to help you succeed.?? ?

Start Your Journey Today?? ?

If you are ready to take the next step toward an exciting career in dental assisting, consider enrolling at Reeves College. There, you can equip yourself with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to make a difference in your community's dental health. Contact us today to learn more about the Dental Assisting Diploma program and how you can begin your path to a rewarding career.??

This article was originally posted at Reeves College's Website: What Does a Dental Assistant Do?