Dental Assistant Job page_content
Dental Assistants have to be very versatile. They are trained in a many areas so they can assist dentists and hygienists perform quality work on people. Their jobs will depend on the state rules, the type of dentist office, and how that office works. Often the smaller the dental facility, the more types of duties the dental assistant will be trained in.
Usually dental assistant has to sterilize instruments and set up instrument trays. Cleaning and sterilizing the dental instruments correctly is an important part of providing quality service. The instrument trays have to be set up with all the proper tools that might be needed during a particular dental procedure. Dental assistants get these materials together and laid out correctly. This helps everything runs smoothly and lets the dentist or hygienist remain focused on the procedure. It eliminates searching for each item as it is needed.
Dental assistants often remain with the dentist or hygienist during the procedures. They are responsible for suction and for handing the instruments to the other staff throughout the procedures. They are also there to offer instant assistance if an emergency arises during the procedure. In some dental facilities, the dental assistant will monitor the vital signs of all patients as well as administer local anesthetics.
Dental assistants often help to make patients feel comfortable before, during, and after their procedures. They can offer a king word, help adjust lighting and chair position, and provide the patient with follow up information to care for their procedures. Dental assistants are often asked to make phone calls and follow up on the recovery process for some patients after major procedures including root canals, bridges, and extractions.
It is common for dental assistants to do X-rays and other lab procedures including castings for caps and bridges. They often talk to patients about their medical history and any types of communicable diseases. They discuss proper care after procedures to ensure patients do all they can to allow their procedures to heal properly. They may even call in prescriptions as a courtesy to patients.
Dental assistants are trained in emergency procedures. While it is unlikely anything will go wrong in the dental office, occasionally it does. Some individuals suffer from an allergic reaction to the anesthetic and require medical attention. Others may swallow something and choke during a procedure. Other times a patient may stop breathing. Knowing CPR and properly monitoring vital signs are all valuable in a crisis situation in the medical facility.
As you can see, dental assistants are often trained in a wide variety of processes and procedures. This will help ensure they keep busy as well as add variety to their daily routine in the workplace. Dental assistants must learn quickly as well as pay attention to details. Their role is very important to the overall functioning of the entire dental facility.
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