Role of the Dental Assistant
The dental assistant is a multi-skilled member of the dental health team, dedicated to assisting the dentist with all phases of dentistry. Dental Assistants may perform any of the following:
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seating patients in the treatment area
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passing requested instruments to the dentist during dental procedures
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sterilization and preparation of instruments
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taking impressions of teeth for study models
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polishing clinical crowns
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exposing and developing X-rays
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providing assistance in the office with tasks such as appointment scheduling, record keeping, telephone management, and billing
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ordering supplies
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serve as office manager or receptionist, greeting patients and introducing patients to the dental practice
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manage the business aspect of dentistry including bookkeeping, accounting, and money management
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manage patient records, filing, and recall systems
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assist the dentist directly at chairside with operative, oral surgery, orthodontic, and a wide range of other procedures
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provide oral hygiene instructions, preventive dentistry & dietary counseling
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perform the expanded functions legally authorized in the state of Florida
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take x-rays, impressions, and apply fluoride and sealants
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assist with patient management by working with a wide range of population groups
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perform laboratory functions such as pouring & trimming models, constructing custom trays and fabricating temporary crowns and bridges
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assist with implementation and documentation of current infection control standards