How to Be Dental Assistant - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Dental assistants are critical to the success of any dental practice. Their duties include a wide variety of tasks, from setting up the examination room to helping the dentist during procedures. With these important responsibilities comes the cause and effect of dental assistants being an integral part of any dental team.

For example, their skills and knowledge of dental anatomy and procedures allow them to help the dentist during complex treatments, helping to ensure the accuracy of the procedure and the patient's comfort. their ability to provide patient education and support helps to reduce anxiety and improve patient satisfaction. By providing these services, dental assistants help dentists and their teams reduce time spent on treatments while increasing overall patient satisfaction.

Steps How to Become

  1. Obtain a high school diploma or GED. Most employers prefer candidates who have at least a high school diploma or GED, although some may accept candidates with a combination of education and experience.
  2. Complete a dental assistant training program. Although some states do not require formal training, it is highly recommended that prospective dental assistants complete an accredited program in dental assisting. These programs can be found at local community colleges and vocational schools, and can typically be completed in 1 to 2 years.
  3. Obtain certification or licensure. Depending on the state, becoming certified or licensed as a dental assistant may be required. Requirements may include passing an exam, completing a formal training program, and/or having a certain amount of on-the-job experience.
  4. Gain experience. Many employers prefer to hire dental assistants with one or more years of experience in the field. Volunteering or interning with a dental office is a great way to gain experience and make connections in the industry.
  5. Become familiar with technology. Dental assistants should become familiar with the latest technology used in the field, including digital x-rays and electronic medical record systems.
  6. Pursue continuing education. Continuing education courses are available in a variety of topics, including dental terminology, patient communication, and infection control. Participating in continuing education courses can help dental assistants stay up-to-date with the latest advances in the field.

Poor dental hygiene can lead to a variety of dental-related issues. If left untreated, cavities can form, causing pain and infection. In addition, poor hygiene can lead to the buildup of plaque, which can cause gum disease and tooth decay.

Untreated gum disease can lead to tooth loss, while tooth decay can cause severe discomfort and even abscesses. Regular brushing and flossing, as well as regular visits to the dentist, are essential for maintaining good dental hygiene and preventing painful and costly dental issues.

You may want to check Dental Biller, Dental Insurance Verifier, and Dental Sales Representative for alternative.

Job Description

  1. Prepare patients for dental treatment by seating, welcoming, and draping patients
  2. Provide patient specific oral hygiene instruction and health history documentation
  3. Assist the dentist chair-side during examinations and treatment
  4. Take x-rays, impressions, and intra-oral photos
  5. Prepare and arrange dental instruments, materials and medication needed for the procedure
  6. Maintain patient records and assist with insurance claims
  7. Sterilize and disinfect all dental instruments
  8. Provide postoperative instructions to patients
  9. Schedule and confirm patient appointments
  10. Order dental supplies and maintain inventory control

Skills and Competencies to Have

  1. Knowledge of dental terminology
  2. Knowledge of dental instruments and materials
  3. Ability to prepare and sterilize dental instruments
  4. Ability to take and process dental X-rays
  5. Ability to recognize dental conditions and disease
  6. Ability to communicate effectively with patients
  7. Ability to maintain patient records and charts
  8. Knowledge of infection control procedures
  9. Knowledge of safety protocols
  10. Ability to provide education and instructions to patients
  11. Ability to perform basic dental procedures such as dental impressions, sealants, and prophylaxis
  12. Ability to take and record vital signs
  13. Knowledge of emergency response procedures
  14. Ability to provide chair-side assistance during dental procedures
  15. Ability to troubleshoot dental equipment
  16. Ability to assist with lab work such as making crowns and bridges
  17. Knowledge of dental billing and coding procedures

Having a great set of dental assistant skills is essential for success in the dental field. Being organized and detail-oriented are key for ensuring patient records are accurately recorded and patient appointments are managed efficiently. having excellent communication skills is critical for interacting with patients, understanding their medical needs, and providing them with the best possible care.

It is also important to have a strong knowledge of dental terminology and procedures so that dental assistants can provide support to dentists and hygienists. Lastly, the ability to work well in a team environment is necessary to ensure effective collaboration between dental personnel. These skills are essential for dental assistants to provide patients with quality care and to foster a successful career in the dental field.

Dental Records Technician, Dental Office Supervisor, and Dental Lab Technician Trainer are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

  • What experience do you have in the dental field?
  • What qualifications do you have that make you a great dental assistant?
  • What challenges have you faced while working as a dental assistant?
  • How do you stay up to date on the latest developments in dentistry?
  • What is your approach to providing patient care?
  • Describe a time when you provided exceptional customer service to a patient.
  • How do you handle difficult conversations with patients or their family members?
  • How comfortable are you working with a variety of dental equipment and instruments?
  • What techniques do you use to ensure accuracy and precision when carrying out dental procedures?
  • How do you ensure patient safety in a dental setting?

Common Tools in Industry

  1. Dental Mirror. Used to view hard-to-reach areas in the mouth for examination and treatment. (eg: checking for cavities in molars)
  2. Dental Scaler. Used to remove plaque and tartar from the teeth. (eg: scraping off plaque from a tooth)
  3. Dental X-Ray Machine. Used to take images of the teeth and surrounding structures to determine the presence of decay, infection, and other conditions. (eg: taking an x-ray of a tooth to check for cavities)
  4. Saliva Ejector. Used to remove excess saliva, water, and debris from the mouth during treatment. (eg: suctioning water from a patient’s mouth during a dental procedure)
  5. High-Speed Handpiece. Used to cut away tooth structure during treatment. (eg: drilling away decay for a filling)
  6. Vacuum Forming Machine. Used to form plastic dental trays and retainers to fit the patient’s mouth. (eg: making a retainer for a patient)

Professional Organizations to Know

  1. American Dental Assistants Association (ADAA)
  2. Academy of Dental Learning and OSHA Training (ADL)
  3. National Association of Dental Assistants (NADAA)
  4. American Association of Dental Office Management (AADOM)
  5. American Society of Dentist Anesthesiologists (ASDA)
  6. American Dental Education Association (ADEA)
  7. International Association of Dental Traumatology (IADT)
  8. American Academy of Dental Hygienists (AADH)
  9. International Association for Dental Research (IADR)
  10. National Commission on Certification of Dental Assistants (NCCDA)

We also have Dental Scheduling Coordinator, Dental Administrator, and Dental Lab Manager jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

  1. Dental Radiography. The use of X-ray technology to capture images of the teeth, gums, and jaw for diagnostic purposes.
  2. Dental Hygienist. A healthcare professional who provides preventive and therapeutic oral health services, such as cleaning and scaling teeth, taking and interpreting X-rays, and providing patient education.
  3. Prophylaxis. The process of cleaning the teeth to remove built-up plaque and tartar that can lead to tooth decay and gum disease.
  4. Oral Surgery. Surgical procedures performed on the mouth, jaws, and related structures.
  5. Orthodontics. The branch of dentistry that focuses on the alignment of teeth and jaws.
  6. Endodontics. The branch of dentistry focused on diagnosing and treating diseases of the dental pulp, root canal therapy, and related procedures.
  7. Periodontics. The branch of dentistry focused on the diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the gums and other supporting structures of the teeth.
  8. Pediatric Dentistry. The dental specialty focused on the care of children’s teeth, gums, and oral health.

Frequently Asked Questions

What qualifications are required to become a Dental Assistant?

To become a Dental Assistant, you must have a high school diploma or equivalent and complete a dental assistant program approved by the Commission on Dental Accreditation.

What duties do Dental Assistants perform?

Dental Assistants typically work with the dentist to prepare patients for treatment, assist in dental procedures, sterilize and maintain instruments, and provide patient education.

How much do Dental Assistants earn?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Dental Assistants earned an average annual salary of $41,170 in 2019.

What is the job outlook for Dental Assistants?

The job outlook for Dental Assistants is positive, with an expected growth rate of 7% between 2019 and 2029.

What type of work environment do Dental Assistants usually work in?

Most Dental Assistants work in dentists' offices, but they may also work in other medical settings such as hospitals, clinics, or nursing homes.

Web Resources

Author Photo
Reviewed & Published by Albert
Submitted by our contributor
Dental Category