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Dental Assistant Jobs Information
Information provided by Heather Brunson - Published: 2009-02-26
The dental assisting profession is expected to experience dramatic growth over the next decade - with job openings projected to increase more than 29% through 2016.
The projected growth in this field will be to due to a growing population, greater retention of natural teeth by middle-aged and older individuals and an increased emphasis on preventative dental care. With an increase in dental services at all age levels, there will be a definite need for qualified dental assistants.
A career as a dental assistant or dental nurse can provide you with the opportunity to spend your days in a comfortable office setting, working alongside dentists and other dental professionals. From delivering patient care to performing laboratory and office duties, you can have a fulfilling career.
A Typical Day as a Dental Assistant
In a busy dental office, there are always patients to tend to before, during and after treatment. Here are some dental assisting duties related to patient care:
* Make patients as comfortable as possible in the dental chair
* Obtain dental records
* Prepare patients for treatment
* Set up tray for dental procedures
* Hand instruments and materials to dentists
* Keep patients' mouths dry and clear by using suction or other devices
* Sterilize and disinfect instruments and equipment
* Instruct patients about general oral health care
* Remove sutures
* Apply anesthetics to gums or cavity-preventive agents to teeth
* Remove excess cement used in the filling process
* Place rubber dams on the teeth to isolate them for individual treatment
You will also assist the dentist with laboratory duties that include:
* Make casts of the teeth and mouth from impressions
* Clean and polish removable appliances
* Make temporary crowns
Additionally, you will play a vital role by performing essential duties that keep the dental office running in a smooth manner:
* Schedule and confirm appointments
* Receive patients
* Keep treatment records
* Send bills and receive payments
* Order supplies and materials
Note: Dental assisting is regulated on a state-by-state basis. Your job duties may vary from those listed above.
A career as a dental assistant provides reward and opportunity every day - where no two days are the same. Whether you work part-time or enjoy a variable schedule, there are opportunities to build a career that works for you. With formal dental assistant training, such as Allied's Dental Assistant Program, you will be prepared to start your career in a dental office. And with job prospects being excellent - a 29% increase in the next decade - you will benefit from a long-term career opportunity.
Reference: Heather Brunson is a lead marketing copywriter for Allied Medical School. Allied provides distance education training that prepares students to build careers in the ever-growing medical and dental assistant fields. Online courses offer students a quick and convenient way to learn.
- This web page is from the Disabled World Job Descriptions section which provides: Listing of job descriptions including how to apply for a job in a certain field and training or qualifications required.
