Basically, a dental assistant works as a member of the dental team to support the dental operator. They have different roles and patient scopes. They are trained to support efficient dental treatment.
Job duties
Typically, the job duties of dental assistants are a combination of administrative and clinical tasks. They help dentists perform procedures and educate patients on oral care. They also sterilize and clean dental tools and equipment.
Dental assistants work in a variety of settings, including dental offices, physician offices, hospitals, and governmental offices. While some assistants work at a reception desk, many are chairside dental assistants. Some assistants also work in a lab or on the manufacturing side of the dental industry.
Dental assistants may be required to work outside of traditional business hours. In fact, some dental practices offer services on three or four 10- to 12-hour days a week.
Typical job duties of dental assistants include preparing patients for procedures, maintaining patient records, and ensuring the safe operation of dental equipment. They also sterilize tools and equipment, perform preventative dental care, and keep a clean working environment.
Dental assistants may assist with extractions, fillings, and root canals. They may also perform x-rays. They work closely with patients to make sure they are comfortable with the procedures. They also provide oral hygiene instructions after the procedure is complete.
Requirements for becoming a dental assistant
Depending on your state, you may need to complete a training program or earn a certification. These programs are designed to teach you the basic skills you need to become a dental assistant. These programs can be done online or at a vocational or technical college. You can also choose to enroll in an accelerated program, which is designed to get you into the workforce faster.
When looking for a dental assistant program, you need to make sure that it is accredited. The Commission on Dental Accreditation (CDA) maintains a list of programs that meet the requirements of the dental assisting industry. You can also check with your state’s dental board for more information.
You can also learn about dental assisting careers by visiting local practices. Many dental practices will accept applications for open positions. You can also find entry-level jobs online.
When applying for a job, you can include experience in your resume. You should also tailor your resume to match the language and job requirements of the job listing.
Working hours as a dental assistant
Generally, dental assistants work for a dentist, though they can also work in the government or in clinical settings. The hours they work vary, but on average, dental assistants work 35 to 40 hours per week.
In some dental offices, assistants may work evenings or weekends, although most are open during normal business hours. In private clinics, the work schedule is dictated by the boss.
As with any type of profession, dental assistants are exposed to many hazards. For example, x-rays can cause cancer. They can also get flu, hepatitis, and infectious diseases. In addition, their instruments need to be disinfected after each patient.
Dental assistants may also be exposed to unpleasant odors. They may also need to help patients get into and out of patient chairs. They may also be required to do lab work behind the scenes.
In the past year, the percentage of dental assistants who reported earning less than $20k per year dropped from 8% to 4.5%.
Salary as a dental assistant in Lawrence, Kansas
Whether you are looking for a position as a dental assistant or you are a practicing dentist, you can find a job that is suitable for you in Kansas. Dental assistants help with patient exams and procedures and also help with administrative tasks. They are usually self-employed or employed by a dentist’s office. Some of them also work part time.
Dental Assistant salaries vary depending on where they work, their experience and their employer. Entry-level positions make about $23,910 per year, while experienced dental assistants make about $38,510 per year.
Marsha Bailey has been working in the dental field for nearly 25 years and has experience working in various settings. She enjoys working with patients and being part of a great team. She also enjoys running, kayaking, stand up paddleboarding and doing hot yoga. She also likes to take part in portrait photography and landscape photography. She also enjoys doing a few 5ks and marathons.
Sierra Dawson is a native of Lawrence, Kansas. She graduated from Washburn University with an art scholarship. She is engaged to her soulmate and has a grown daughter who lives in Lawrence. She has a passion for helping people and educating patients about their oral health. She is also trained in local anesthesia and nitrous oxide/oxygen sedation administration.