An individual who assists a dentist at the chairside in a dental operatory performs reception and clerical functions, and carries out dental radiography and selected dental laboratory work. The actual number of active dental assistants is not known since most dentists train and employ dental assistants who are neither certified nor registered as members of an official organization. How ever, it is estimated that 116,000 persons were employed as dental assistants in 1972. Dental assistants who have completed accredited educational programs are eligible for national certification examinations conducted by the Certifying Board of the American Dental Assistants Association. In 1972. there were 12,000 dental assistants maintaining current certifications. An accredited dental assistant program is usually conducted in a community college or vocational technical school and must provide at least one year of academic training.
The person who assists a dentist with a variety of tasks and helps with patient care. The duties of a dental assistant may include preparing patients for treatments, sterilizing or disinfecting instruments, handing instruments to the dentist, developing X rays, offering postoperative instructions, and teaching at-home oral health care. Some dental assistants are also responsible for obtaining dental records, scheduling and confirming appointments, filing treatment records, billing, and ordering dental supplies. Dental assistants who do laboratory work may make casts of teeth from dental impressions, clean and polish removable dental appliances, and make temporary crowns. Many dental assistants are trained and certified by accredited programs.
A person who assists a dentist in patient care, and may perform other functions in the dental office or laboratory. Most dental assistants are trained by the dentist.
One who assists in the care and treatment of dental patients. The responsibilities vary according to the needs of the dentist, the training and capability of the individual, and the state regulations of duties.