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Nature of Job:

Dental Assistant provides assistance to both patients and dentists. They assess the patients concerns before transferring them to the dentist. They also assist the dentist in conducting minor or major operations.

Basic Tasks:

• Assist patients with their concerns by interviewing them regarding their problem.
• Prepare the materials needed for operations or examination procedures.
• Hand instrument or tools to the dentist during operation.
• Jotting down important information about the patients.
• Consult dentists about the appointments and schedules.
• Setting an appointment to patients.
• Assist dentists during minor or major operations.
• Keeping important and confidential documents.
• Cleaning and preventing the cleanliness in the operation and office areas.
• Advising clients on how to deal with their teeth or gum problems.
• Issue receipts or billing statements to clients.

Education and Training Requirements:

• Must have a degree in Dentistry or Orthodontics.
• Must hold an authentic license.
• Must have at least 2-3 years experience.

Skills and Competency Requirements:

• Must have wide knowledge in dentistry.
• Knowledge and ability on caring of patients.
• Ability to assist patients.
• Knowledge in analyzing cases of patients.
• Must know basic administrative work.
• Knowledge in using computer application.
• Knowledge in basic math.
• Know how to accommodate patients.
• Knowledge in giving good dental advices.
• Must have good communication skills.

Employment Opportunities:

The job outlook for dental assistant is very good. The need for dental assistant are also high in Middle East, since they are expanding their health care units.

Work Environment:

Dental assistant works in either private-owned clinics or hospitals. Their job is lighter compared to nurses, since their tasks is not as complicated. Their desk or cubicle is often located in front or beside the door to readily greet and assist the incoming patients.

Work Hours:

Dental assistants often work for 8-10 hours a day.

Career Advancement:

Dental assistant, who graduated and is a licensed dentist, can be promoted as intern dentist or orthodontist. If he/she possesses the skills and knowledge, promotion can be easily obtained.