Dental Assistant

Job Description:

Dental assistants work along side the dentist and assist with a variety of dental services. With the greater retention of natural teeth, the demand for dental services is increasing, thereby creating more opportunities for dental assistants. Dentists are expected to hire more assistants to meet the needs of California’s growing population.

Dental assistants can begin their careers without a college degree through on-the-job training or a formal education program. Since dental assistants are in demand, career options include both full-time and part-time positions.

Specific tasks dental assistants are trained to perform may include:

• Take and process x-rays
• Assist the dentist at chair-side with the delivery of instruments and preparation of dental materials
• Counsel patients about preventative dental care and nutrition
• Perform a variety of office management tasks
• Operatory and instrument infection control

Professional Outlook:

A dental assistant usually works in the offices of general Dentists or dental specialties. Other areas include dental schools, health clinics and public health departments. Salaries depend primarily upon the responsibilities associated with the specific position and geographical location of employment.

Educational Requirements:

• On-the-Job Training
• Community/Junior colleges
• Vocational/Technical schools
• Regional Occupational programs

You may also contact:

• American Dental Assistants Association at http://www.dentalassistant.org/
• American Dental Association at http://www.ada.org/
• Dental Board of California at http://www.dbc.ca.gov
• Dental Assisting National Board at http://www.danb.org/
• California Dental Assistants Association at http://www.cdaaweb.org/