Dental Jobs: The Dental Assistant |
 |
May 22, 2006
by Joe Cooper
joe.cooper@healthcare-programs.com
Healthcare Programs Columnist
Healthcare is predicted to be have huge growth, and this applies to the world of dental health, which is in need of educated professionals to help fill positions during this growth period.
What is Dental Assisting?
A dental assistant is someone who has completed a training program resulting in certification from the Dental Assisting National Board or another accredited organization. Dental assistants support dentists in a variety of ways. They prepare dental records, manage patient visits, prepare patients for dental treatment, and assist the dentist with instrumentation during dental procedures.
Some dental assistant duties vary, depending on the dentist and the location. In some offices, dental assistants are with patients from the moment they come into the dental office to the moment they leave. In other offices, dental assistants perform the initial cleaning during regular appointments and leave the dentist to complete the rest. Some dental assistants take x-rays and perform x-ray reviews, while others simply record findings in patient files.
Becoming a Dental Assistant
School or training for dental assistants may last from nine months to two years, depending on the program. Once you complete your training, you must earn certification from the American Dental Association. With certification, you'll be qualified to work in a dentist's office and start your dental assisting career.
Compensation for Dental Assistants
Although it varies, many dental assistants are paid hourly. Two years ago, the middle 50% of dental assistants earned between $11.06 and $16.65 per hour. Once you become a dental assistant, you will be exposed to other dental jobs and opportunities in the dental world.
Sources
American Dental Assistants Association
Dental Assisting National Board, Inc.
US Bureau of Labor Statistics
About the Author
Joe Cooper is a freelance education and technology writer and edits medical literature. He holds a bachelor's in American Literature from UCLA.
|
Related Articles |
 |
|
|
| |
