Job Description

Dental assistants support dentists in delivering high-quality oral health care. They assist with clinical procedures, provide patient education, maintain a sterile environment and perform essential administrative duties.

Key responsibilities:

• Prepare and sterilize dental instruments in compliance with infection control standards
• Set up instrument trays and treatment areas for dental procedures
• Collect and document medical and dental histories, including vital signs
• Document treatment notes and maintain accurate patient records
• Obtain dental images
• Provide patients with oral hygiene instructions and post-operative care, as prescribed by the dentist
• Capture impressions and prepare diagnostic models
• Polish and clean removable appliances
• Support the dentist in managing medical and dental emergencies

Working conditions and physical demands

• Handle loads of up to 10 pounds, sometimes up to 20 pounds
• Maneuver in small spaces
• Work in enclosed spaces
• Sit and work chairside for long periods, reaching for equipment
• Standing more than one-third of the time, especially if working in oral surgery setting
• Engage in repetitive motions
• Work predominantly indoors
• Interact with individuals, families and groups from a variety of social, emotional, cultural and intellectual backgrounds
• Use hands, wrists, neck, shoulders and back for at least eight hours per day

Working in this career involves the following physical activities:

• Communicating clearly enough to be able to be understood by others and to understand them
• Seeing clearly enough to see fine details
• Hearing a variety of sounds at various pitches with background noise present

Work hours and travel

• Regular work hours

Career at a Glance

Salary Range
$31,366 to $44,762

Skills Needed
Strong interpersonal skills/enjoys engaging with others
Values hands-on involvement in patient care and clinical procedures
Effective problem-solving skills
Clear, professional communication skills
Organized and motivated

Work Locations
Dental offices
Public health departments
Hospitals
Dental schools
Dental clinics