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Dental Assisting

 
A Challenging and Rewarding Career

Information for students seeking a career in dental assisting.

Dental Assisting - A Challenging and Rewarding Career (PDF 97 KB)
 

What does a dental assistant do?

A dental chairside assistant (sometimes known as a dental nurse) works closely with the dentist in all stages of the patient's treatment.

Duties include reception of the patient and preparation for treatment, sterilising instruments and setting them out for the dentist, mixing materials, developing and mounting x-rays and chairside assistance by passing instruments and using suction apparatus.

A dental assistant may also be involved in the administration of the practice by answering telephones, making appointments, maintaining patient records, ordering supplies, preparing accounts and collecting payments.

 
Personal requirements
 

  • Manual dexterity
  • Good communication skills and interpersonal skills
  • Ability to concentrate and follow instructions
  • Good organisational ability and time management skills
  • Interest in Health Care work 

 
Related Jobs

  • Dental Laboratory Assistant
  • Dental Hygienist
  • Dental Technician
  • Dental Therapist
     

      Employment Opportunities

      Most dental assistants are employed by dentists in private practices and clinics. Some dental assistants undertake further study to become dental therapists or dental hygienists. There are good job opportunities for dental assistants due to demand for dental services.

     

     

    Additional Information

     

    At present, dental assistants are not required to be registered with the Dental Registration Board of the State in which they intend to work.

     

     

     

     

     

     

     


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