From office management to assisting in dental procedures, there are plenty of reasons why we love to celebrate dental assistants. That’s why Dental Assistants Recognition Week is so special!
What are dental assistants?
Dental assistants are the cogs that keep the wheels in a dental office turning.
Most dental assistants are responsible for scheduling appointments and keeping patient records. They also help with some procedures, such as X-rays, and perform tasks like sterilizing rooms and tools around the office.
Dental assistants are also very involved in patient care and ensuring patients are comfortable.
For a full list of dental assistant job duties, check out this job description from the ADA.
Common dental assistant tasks
Dental assistants often work in the background of dental offices to make sure things run smoothly. Some of their tasks include:
Preparation for and takedown after appointments:
Before you sit in the dentist’s chair, dental assistants prepare the space for your appointment. This includes cleaning anything used during a previous appointment. It also includes setting out the instruments that will be used and whatever else is required based on the needs of the patient. Once the patient has completed their appointment, the process starts all over again for each new incoming patient.
Assisting the dentist as needed:
Dental assistants typically begin an appointment by taking the patient to the examination room and discussing their needs. Next, they may take radiographs (X-rays). Dental assistants also conduct any other assessments that may be needed. The assistant helps the dentist with tasks during the appointment, including instrument handling, rinsing and suction, and limiting the spread of bacteria. Dental assistants may also take impressions of teeth and provide post-care instructions.
Often, the role of dental assistants isn’t limited to just patient-facing tasks. They manage tasks like ordering supplies, scheduling appointments, submitting claims, billing customers and other administrative duties. They’re some of the best multi-taskers around!
Why we appreciate dental assistants
The first week of March is Dental Assistants Recognition Week. It’s designed to honor those important team members in every dental practice.
The next time you visit your dentist, be sure to give extra thanks to the dental assistants!
Looking for a provider? Use our handy dentist search to find someone near you.
*Updated March 2024
