Dental Assistants (DA) are vital members of the dental team who conduct various duties to assist dentists and guarantee efficient and successful patient treatment. They may assist with procedures such as preparing materials, sterilizing instruments, taking X-rays, and managing patient records. They also help make patients comfortable and educate them about oral health. Overall, dental assistants play a crucial role in providing quality dental care.
This March 2023, we celebrate Dental Assistant Recognition Week to appreciate their hard work and dedication. So let’s find out below what dental assistants do and why they are an essential part of the dental care team.
Dental Assistants Job/Duties
Can dental assistants do fillings? Do dental assistants do cleanings? Do dental assistants do braces? Dental assistants are crucial in supporting dentists and providing quality dental care to patients. However, depending on their education, training, and responsibilities, dental assistants are categorized into Levels 1 and 2.
The specific Level 1 and Level 2 dental assistant duties may vary depending on the regulations set forth by their regulatory body, but the following provides a general overview:
Level 1 Dental Assistants:
- Chair-side assistance – During basic dental procedures, they perform tasks such as passing instruments to the dentist, preparing materials, monitoring patients’ vital signs, and providing comfort measures.
- Sterilization of instruments and operatories – They follow strict infection control protocols, such as using appropriate cleaning solutions, disinfectants, and sterilization methods.
- Taking and developing X-rays – They are responsible for preparing patients and taking X-rays as part of an examination. The process involves positioning the patient, selecting the correct exposure settings, and taking the X-ray.
- Educating patients about oral hygiene – They are responsible for educating patients on oral health conditions, dental procedures, and proper oral hygiene. They may demonstrate brushing, flossing, and other effective home care techniques to help patients maintain good oral health.
- Keeping the dental office clean and organized – They are responsible for maintaining office cleanliness and organization by following a routine for taking hand tools to be sterilized, changing light covers and chair covers, wiping down surfaces when necessary, taking out the trash, cleaning the waiting area regularly, and organizing magazines or other reading materials in the patient waiting area.
Level 2 Dental Assistant:
- All duties of a Level 1 dental assistant
- Preparing materials for fillings and impressions – They are responsible for preparing materials for fillings and impressions, such as amalgam and composite resin, polyvinyl siloxane impression material, and preliminary impressions for study casts. They may also make bleach trays, apply topical anesthetics to gums, and help with the dental crown.
- Assisting with more advanced dental procedures – They can assist with more advanced procedures such as applying anesthesia, removing prosthetics, coronal polishing, applying sealants, and monitoring nitrous oxide administration.
Level 2 dental assistants may have additional responsibilities, such as taking patient medical and dental histories, scheduling appointments, and assisting with laboratory procedures. The specific duties and responsibilities of dental assistants in Canada will depend on the regulations set forth by their provincial or territorial regulatory body and the policies and procedures of the dental practice they work in. However, regardless of their level, dental assistants play an important role in supporting dentists and providing quality dental care to patients, especially here in Brampton, CA.
Why Are Dental Assistants Important?
Dental assistants are one of the first point of contact for patients and are responsible for explaining procedures, addressing patient concerns, and ensuring they feel comfortable and relaxed. With their friendly and approachable demeanour, dental assistants’ daily duties include putting their patients at ease and making their experience more positive and less stressful.
Below is a list of reasons dental assistants are essential to the dental care team and why their contributions should be acknowledged and appreciated:
- Improved patient care – Dental assistants help dentists provide more efficient and effective patient care, improving outcomes and patient satisfaction.
- Increased efficiency – Dental assistants help to streamline procedures, allowing dentists to focus on providing clinical care and improving the overall efficiency of the practice.
- Enhanced patient comfort – Dental assistants provide support and comfort throughout their visits.
- Improved patient education – Dental assistants educate patients on oral hygiene practices, promoting good oral health and helping to prevent future dental problems.
- Reduced stress for dentist – By assisting with various tasks, such as sterilizing instruments and preparing materials, dental assistants help to reduce stress and workload for dentists, allowing them to focus on providing high-quality care to patients.
- Increased practice revenue – A well-functioning dental practice with a skilled team of dental assistants can increase revenue and contribute to the practice’s overall success.
- Career advancement opportunities – The role of dental assistants continues to evolve, offering opportunities for career growth and advancement.
As valued dental care team members, dental assistants are crucial in delivering quality treatment and service to patients. From their list of responsibilities, it is evident how vital they are and impactful their presence is in the medical field. By highlighting these aspects, this blog post has celebrated dental assistants’ jobs and recognized their invaluable contributions to patient care.
Springdale Dental: Your Go-to Dental Care Provider in Brampton, CA
Springdale Dental can assist with everything from routine teeth cleanings to root canals and so much more. From certified dental assistants to licensed dentists in Brampton, our skilled team provides complete dental care for all customers and will work with you to give high-quality yet affordable treatments. We examine your teeth and gums to create the healthy and beautiful smile you deserve.
Call our dental clinic in Brampton now at 905-458-1212 to set up an appointment or consultation. We make sure you’re on your path to a brighter smile and a better life! Also, check our website for more engaging and educational blogs to stay on top of other dental-related topics.
