Career Profiles Dental Assistant
Career profiles: Dental assistant
Dental assistants work mostly in a dentist's office, but they also work in laboratories, dental clinics and in the offices. Although they are involved in patient care; they are not dental hygienist. A person wanting to become a dental assistant can acquire training on the job, but most recruiters are increasingly asking for certification.
In their capacity as dental assistants; they assist the dentist with surgery and other procedures that are being done on a patient. They pass instruments, take care of dental equipments, and care for patients who are receiving treatment at the dental facility. They are responsible for dental records, and for discussing post operative care with patients.
Dental assistants who work in laboratories make casts of teeth and mouth impressions. Their duties also include making temporary crowns, and cleaning, and polishing removable appliances. Others who work in the office focus their time on administrative tasks. They schedule appointments, keep patient records, and they are responsible for patient billing, payment receivables, and insurance billings.
The dentist is responsible for the actions of a dental assistant and they work together closely. The dental assistant works at the chair side supplying the dentist with all the equipment that is necessary for the procedure that the patient is having. Some offices require more clinical work while others may require more administrative duties. In some offices the dental assistant will use the combination of skills equally.
Salary is determined by experience and qualification. An entry level assistant typically starts at $12.00 to $20.00 per hour while an experienced dental assistant can expect to earn twenty six thousand to thirty six thousand dollars a year; with top earners making close to forty thousand dollars per year.
Training for dental assistants can take up to a year and upon completion; a certificate is awarded. The outlook for dental assistant's jobs is positive. There is not much opportunity for promotion, but a person can continue training to become a dental hygienist.
Dental assistant training will prepare the dental assistant to make patients ready for procedures, use x-ray machines, and manage dental records, sterilize instruments, set up trays for dental procedures. They are trained to educate patients on oral care and preventative dental care.
The dental industry is quick to introduce new technology and advancement into the work place. This is am exciting field because there are always new equipment and tools being added to the work place. A dental assistant who wishes to command a good salary should keep up with new technologies and equipment as they are introduced into the industry.
