Dentistry can play a major role in promoting an individual’s overall health. According to the Mayo Clinic, research suggests that poor oral hygiene can have correlations to serious health conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cancer. Because of this connection, it is important for each dentist visit to be as effective and efficient as possible.
Dental assistants play a vital role in keeping their dental office operating at a high level of efficiency. These oral healthcare professionals take care of several fundamental tasks before, during, and after the dental care process — tasks that make it possible for an individual to receive the kind of care that keeps their oral health strong.
For those looking to enroll in a dental assistant training school, the employment prospects for graduates in the field show great potential. However, it is important that they fully understand a dental assistant's daily duties and responsibilities, so they can prepare for what lies ahead.
A Dental Assistant’s Daily Routine
A dental assistant’s daily routine tends to be built around a set schedule with a minimal amount of surprises. Most work eight-hour shifts, typically on weekdays. Dental assistants do not receive after-hours or emergency calls, which can allow for a more consistent work-life balance.
Some of a dental assistant’s duties can be dictated by their work routine. As such, breaking down a typical day on the job can provide insight into some of the role’s responsibilities.
Starting the Day as a Dental Assistant
Dental assistants are part of a team that opens and closes the dental office. They start the day by reviewing the day’s schedule, preparing the examining room with the necessary tools and equipment, and sterilizing instruments. They may also gather patients’ medical records as well as any necessary medical forms or papers. Additionally, they make sure each procedure room is clean. Dental assistants complete these duties before the first patient arrives.
During their Work Day at the Dental Office
When patients arrive, the dental assistant takes them into the examining room for their appointment. They review the patient’s chart and update information about their medical history as necessary and tell patients what to expect, preparing them for their procedure by answering questions, making sure they are comfortable, and adorning them with a patient bib.
During a procedure, a dental assistant helps the dentist by handing them instruments and holding suction hoses to keep the patient’s mouth clean and dry. Under a dentist’s guidance, they may also take x-rays and perform lab tests. In some states, dental assistants will polish teeth, apply sealants or fluoride treatments, or administer a topical anesthetic to numb the patient’s mouth before a procedure.
After a procedure, a dental assistant will review care instructions with the patient, educating them on proper dental hygiene and scheduling the follow-up appointment. They will then restock the examining room with supplies for the next patient. They may even call the patient after a procedure to check in with them.
Dental Assistant Duties and Responsibilities
When they aren’t helping dentists or preparing for patients, dental assistants typically handle administrative work. These tasks are common during downtime or at the end of the day, where they may help the front desk with various paperwork. Some of this work includes sending out reminder cards to patients, contacting patients to remind and confirm upcoming appointments, coding insurance bills, and processing invoices and payments. They typically conclude the day by holding an office audit to make sure all supplies and materials are ready to go for the next day.
It is important that dental assistants have solid computer literacy skills to perform their administrative duties. This competency is part of a larger skill set that includes a strong level of dexterity and solid communication, organizational, and detail-oriented skills.
Dental Assistant Job Outlook for Graduates
The role is not only essential, it’s also in-demand. Employment is projected to grow 11% between 2022 and 2032, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. This is substantially higher than the 3% projected growth rate, which is the average for all professions.
Begin Your Journey Toward a Bright Future
A dental assistant’s work is vital to keeping a dental office ready to help patients effectively and efficiently. Considering how important proper oral hygiene can be to a person’s overall health, maintaining this level of efficiency can make an impact that goes beyond a clean set of teeth.
The Dental Assistant training programs at Fortis are designed to help you build the skills and knowledge you need to excel in the dental assistant role. Under our program, experienced faculty will help you gain proficiency through the key dental procedures and techniques that you’ll encounter on the job, building up your confidence in your abilities along the way.
Learn how Fortis can help you move toward a fulfilling career.
Recommended Readings
Dental Hygienist vs Dental Assistant: What’s the Difference?
5 Tips to Handle Workplace Stress in a Busy Medical or Dental Office
Beyond the Dentist’s Chair: Career Opportunities for Dental Assistants