Are you interested in becoming a dental assistant? If so, this article will give you a better understanding of what a dental assistant does, how to prepare for a job after graduation, some of the skills you need to succeed in your new career, and much more. By the end of the guide, you will know what you need to be successful in your new career. Let us start by answering the question, “What does a dental assistant do?”
What Does a Dental Assistant Do?
A dental assistant plays an important role in the dental office by supporting dentists and delivering quality patient care. Their responsibilities include:
Clinical Duties
Dental assistants are responsible for several clinical duties, including:
Patient Preparation: The dental assistant greets patients and addresses concerns or questions to help them feel comfortable. They escort patients to the treatment area, drape them appropriately, and position them in the dental chair. They also review the patient’s medical history, including allergies or pre-existing conditions, to offer safe treatment.
Chairside Assistance: Dental assistants pass instruments, materials, and tools to the dentist during procedures. For example, suction devices help to keep the patient’s mouth clear and dry for better visibility and precision during treatments. As procedures require, they mix and prepare dental materials such as composites, cement, and impression materials. They also assist in procedures, such as root canals, extractions, and crowns, by maintaining sterile conditions and aiding the dentist with specialized instruments.
Instrument Sterilization: Dental assistants need to follow strict sterilization procedures to clean, disinfect, and store instruments to prevent cross-contamination. They should maintain the cleanliness of the dental operatory before and after patient visits.
Taking X-rays: The dental assistant properly positions and shields patients to capture accurate dental radiographs. They may also develop and evaluate X-ray films or process digital radiographs to meet diagnostic standards.
Impression Handling: Dental assistants prepare trays and impression materials to create molds of patients’ teeth for crowns, dentures, or orthodontics. They also properly label, package, and send impressions to dental laboratories.
Lab Work: The dental assistant polishes temporary crowns, bridges, or other prosthetic devices. They do this by pouring and trimming dental models from impressions as needed.
Emergency Assistance: Dental assistants may need to respond to patient emergencies, such as fainting or allergic reactions, by administering first aid and alerting the dentist.
Administrative Duties
Dental assistants are responsible for many administrative duties, including:
Scheduling Appointments: Dental assistants coordinate patient visits so as not to keep patients waiting too long and for efficient scheduling of procedures. They also remind patients of upcoming appointments with calls, texts, or emails to reduce missed appointments.
Record Maintenance: Dental assistants accurately update and manage patient records, including treatment plans, X-rays, and progress notes. They also must maintain confidentiality and comply with HIPAA and other privacy regulations.
Billing and Insurance: The dental assistant verifies patients’ insurance coverage and explains benefits to help patients understand their financial responsibilities. They must submit insurance claims and follow up on reimbursements or discrepancies, process payments, and provide receipts for treatments.
Inventory Management: Dental assistants track and order dental supplies and equipment to keep the office is properly stocked. They must perform regular inventory checks and maintain a log of incoming and outgoing supplies.
Reception Duties: A dental assistant can assist the medical secretary by greeting and checking in patients, making sure they complete the necessary paperwork. They may also direct phone calls to the appropriate staff and answer questions about office hours, procedures, or pricing.
What are the Benefits of Four-Handed Dentistry?
Four-handed dentistry is a technique where a dentist and a dental assistant work together to provide dental care. This approach offers many benefits for patients and dental professionals by improving efficiency, ergonomics, and the overall quality of care.
The many benefits of four-handed dentistry include:
Improved Efficiency
The dental assistant anticipates the dentist’s needs, passing on instruments, materials, and tools, reducing treatment time. This allows the dentist to focus on procedures without stopping and searching for instruments or preparing materials. Efficient teamwork allows more patients to be treated without compromising quality.
Enhanced Patient Care
Patients benefit from shorter appointments, minimizing discomfort and anxiety. Dentists can concentrate on delivering precise care without distractions, improving the accuracy and quality of procedures. The dental assistant can monitor the patient’s comfort, adjust suction, or provide reassurance during the procedure.
Ergonomic Benefits
The dentist can maintain a comfortable working posture by eliminating unnecessary movements and utilizing instruments at the correct time. Due to efficient positioning and minimized physical exertion, both the dentist and dental assistant experience less strain on their backs, necks, and shoulders. Tasks are distributed, reducing burnout and physical wear for both team members.
Enhanced Infection Control
The dental assistant makes sure instruments and equipment remain sterile and handled properly during procedures. The dental assistant focuses on infection control to reduce the likelihood of cross-contamination.
Better Communication and Teamwork
Dentists and dental assistants develop a rhythm through consistent practice, improving coordination. Clear, ongoing teamwork minimizes miscommunication and allows for more accurate performance of procedures.
Professional Development for Dental Assistants
Dental assistants gain valuable hands-on experience and a deeper understanding of dental procedures. Also, being involved in procedures makes dental assistants feel more engaged and integral to the practice.
What Should I Put on My Resume as a Dental Assistant?
When creating a resume as a dental assistant, it is important to highlight your clinical and administrative skills, relevant certifications, and professional experience. Your resume should demonstrate how you can help the dental practice provide excellent patient care.
How Do I Stand Out in a Dental Assistant Interview?
Standing out in a dental assistant interview requires preparation, professionalism, and showcasing your skills and personality. Here are some ways to stand out before, during, and after your interview:
Before the Interview
Before the interview even starts, some preparation must be completed to impress the hiring manager.
Research the Practice: Understand whether the practice specializes in general dentistry, orthodontics, oral surgery, or another area. Check their website or social media to align your responses with their goals and culture. Knowing the dentist’s name and specialties can demonstrate genuine interest.
Practice Common Interview Questions: Prepare answers to questions such as:
• “What inspired you to become a dental assistant?”
• “How do you manage a nervous or difficult patient?”
• “Can you describe your experience with [specific procedure or skill]?”
• “How do you prioritize tasks when the office is busy?”
Update Your Knowledge and Skills: Explore key procedures, instruments, and dental terminology. Review software or equipment you might use, such as dental management systems (e.g., Dentrix, Eaglesoft).
Gather Documentation: Bring the following items to demonstrate preparedness:
• Copies of your resume
• Certifications (e.g., X-ray certification, CPR)
• References
• A list of questions for the interviewer
Dress Professionally: Wear professional business attire and improve your grooming is impeccable, as appearance matters in a healthcare environment.
During the Interview
The interview is your chance to make a good impression. Here is what you can do during the interview to stand out:
Make a Positive First Impression: Arrive 10-15 minutes early. Greet everyone warmly, including the receptionist, and maintain a friendly, professional demeanor.
Showcase Your Skills and Experience: Highlight specific accomplishments. Use examples of how you have improved efficiency, solved problems, or provided exceptional patient care.
Mention Technical Skills: Discuss your expertise with chairside assisting, X-rays, impressions, and sterilization protocols.
Emphasize Soft Skills: Highlight qualities like empathy, teamwork, and adaptability, which are essential in patient-centered care.
Express Your Passion: What excites you about being a dental assistant, such as helping patients feel comfortable or contributing to their oral health? Share a memorable moment where you made a positive impact on a patient.
Ask Thoughtful Questions: Prepare questions that show your interest in the role and practice. For example:
• “How do you support your staff’s ongoing training and development?”
• “What does a typical day look like for a dental assistant here?”
• “Are there opportunities to assist in specialized procedures or patient education programs?”
Highlight Your Adaptability: Share examples of how you have handled challenging situations, such as calming an anxious patient or managing multiple responsibilities during a busy day. Talk about your ability to quickly learn new technologies, procedures, or systems.
After the Interview
After the interview, the process is not over. To get a job offer, you must follow up with the interviewer, let them know you are interested in the next steps, and offer a thank-you note to remind them that you are enthusiastic about the role. Also, take the time to reflect on the interview and consider how you can improve. It usually takes more than one interview to get a job, and it is important to continue to improve your interview skills.
What are the Six Skills Every Dental Assistant Needs?
Dental assistants need six skills to excel in their role including technical proficiency, soft skills, and a professional demeanor. Here is a breakdown of essential skills like organizational skills, interpersonal skills, professional appearance, listening skills, communication skills, and dexterity:
Skill #1: Organizational Skills
Being organized is critical for managing the challenging environment of a dental office. Key aspects include:
Task Prioritization: Having the ability to balance multiple responsibilities, such as preparing instruments, maintaining patient records, and assisting with procedures.
Time Management: Keeping appointments running on schedule by preparing rooms and equipment efficiently.
Inventory Management: Tracking and replenishing dental supplies and materials to avoid delays.
Accurate Record Keeping: Keeping patient records up to date, including treatment plans, X-rays, and insurance information.
Skill #2: People Skills
Dental assistants interact with different types of people, including patients, dentists, hygienists, and office staff. Because of this, strong people skills are important. These skills include:
Empathy: Helping patients feel at ease, especially those who are anxious or in pain.
Teamwork: Collaborating with the dental team to offer smooth operations and efficient patient care.
Professional Relationships: Building patient trust and maintaining a positive rapport with colleagues.
Skill #3: Professional Appearance
As a front-facing role in healthcare, a dental assistant’s appearance reflects the practice’s professionalism. Key elements include:
Hygiene: Clean and well-maintained uniforms and adherence to infection control protocols.
Grooming: Neat hair, trimmed nails, and minimal jewelry to increase safety and maintain a polished image.
Appropriate Attire: Wearing scrubs or professional clothing that complies with office dress codes and conveys confidence.
Skill #4: Listening Skills
Active listening is vital to understanding instructions and addressing patients’ needs. Examples include:
Following Directions: Carefully listen to the dentist’s instructions during procedures to anticipate their needs.
Patient Care: Attentively hearing patients’ concerns and answering their questions accurately.
Feedback Reception: Taking constructive feedback to improve job performance and adapt to the office workflow.
Skill #5: Communication Skills
Clear and effective communication helps with smooth interactions with patients and team members. The key components are:
Verbal Communication: Explaining procedures and post-treatment care to patients in simple, reassuring terms.
Non-Verbal Communication: Using body language, such as eye contact and a calm demeanor, to convey confidence and empathy.
Technical Communication: Accurately relay information about patient needs or case details to the dentist, hygienist, or lab technicians.
Conflict Resolution: Addressing concerns or misunderstandings in a professional, patient-focused manner.
Skill #6: Dexterity
To perform precise tasks, dental assistants must have excellent hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity. This includes:
Chairside Assistance: Passing instruments efficiently and positioning tools correctly during procedures.
Handling Tools: Managing the delicate instruments and materials used while taking impressions or polishing temporary crowns, for example.
Fine Motor Skills: Including operating suction devices, preparing dental materials, and performing tasks requiring steady hands.
Why Get Certified as a Dental Assistant?
Getting certified as a dental assistant offers many benefits, including enhanced career opportunities, higher earning potential, professional recognition, and the ability to perform advanced tasks. Here is why certification is a valuable step in your career:
Expanded Career Opportunities
Many states require certification for specific duties, such as taking X-rays or performing expanded functions. Certification qualifies you to work in specialized practices, such as orthodontics, oral surgery, or pediatric dentistry. Employers often prefer certified dental assistants because they demonstrate verified competence and commitment.
Professional Recognition
Certification shows that you are committed to your profession and dedicated to providing the highest level of patient care. It can also enhance your credibility and reputation in the dental field.
Increased Knowledge and Skills
Certification exams prepare you have comprehensive knowledge of dental procedures, infection control, and patient care. You will also develop a strong understanding of dental ethics, radiography, and chairside assisting techniques.
Meeting Regulatory Requirements
Certification ensures compliance with state and national standards, including infection control and radiation safety protocols. Certified assistants are often more familiar with OSHA standards and HIPAA regulations, reducing the risk of compliance violations in the dental office.
Popular certifications for dental assistants include:
Certified Dental Assistant (CDA): The Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) offers the most widely recognized certification.
Radiology or X-ray Certification: This enables you to take dental X-rays legally and safely.
CPR Certification: Often required to keep patients safe during emergencies.
Infection Control (ICE) Certification: Validates your knowledge of maintaining sterile environments and preventing cross-contamination.
What is the Certified Dental Assistant Examination?
The Certified Dental Assistant Examination is a professional certification test administered by the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) in the United States. It assesses the knowledge and skills required to perform essential dental assisting tasks so that you meet industry standards for competence and professionalism.
Purpose of the CDA Exam
• To validate a dental assistant’s expertise in clinical and administrative skills.
• To allow candidates to understand safety, infection control, and patient care protocols.
• To meet state licensure requirements for specific dental assistant functions in many jurisdictions.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the CDA exam, candidates typically need to meet one of the following pathways:
Education and Experience Pathway: Graduate from a Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA)-accredited dental assisting program. Hold a current CPR certification from a DANB-accepted provider.
Work Experience Pathway: Have at least 3,500 hours of dental assisting work experience over a minimum of 2 years. Hold a current CPR certification.
Exam Components
The CDA exam consists of three components, each covering a key area of dental assisting. You can take all three together or separately:
Section #1: General Chairside Assisting (GC)
• Patient preparation and care
• Chairside procedures (e.g., four-handed dentistry)
• Instrument and material handling
• Radiographic procedures
• Office operations
Section #2: Radiation Health and Safety (RHS)
• Principles of radiation safety
• Proper use of dental X-ray equipment
• Patient protection during radiography
• Radiographic imaging techniques
• Compliance with state and federal regulations
Section #3: Infection Control (ICE)
• Principles of infection prevention
• Sterilization and disinfection
• OSHA guidelines and blood-borne pathogen protocols
• Personal protective equipment (PPE) use
• Handling of hazardous materials
Exam Format
Number of Questions: 210 multiple-choice questions (combined for all three components).
Duration: 3 hours and 15 minutes if all components are combined.
Format: Computer-based tests are available at authorized testing centers.
The CDA exam is an excellent way to enhance your professional qualifications and gain recognition as a skilled dental assistant. It demonstrates your dedication to providing high-quality patient care and positions you for long-term career success in the dental field.
What is the Difference Between Dental Assisting and Dental Laboratory Technician Training?
Dental assisting and dental laboratory technician training prepare individuals for distinct roles in the dental field. While both contribute to oral healthcare, they focus on different responsibilities, skill sets, and work environments.
Choosing the Right Path
Dental Assisting: Ideal for those who enjoy working directly with people, assisting dentists, and managing various clinical and administrative tasks in a fast-paced environment.
Dental Laboratory Technology: A good fit for those with a technical mindset, an eye for detail, and an interest in crafting dental devices behind the scenes.
Eager to Learn More?
At Florida National University, we believe everyone should have access to higher education to improve their lives and the lives of their families. From athletics to academics, everything we do is focused on you, the student, to ensure you have a rich and fulfilling college experience. Small class sizes, personalized attention, and an emphasis on celebrating diversity make Florida National University so much more than a university – we are a community.
If you are interested in the Dental Assistant program, let Florida National University answer any questions you may have. Contact us today to learn more.
