Dental Assistant Career Path

Answer 1

If one completes their schooling and is certified as a dental assistant, they will be able to work in a dental office as an assistant. They would be assisting the dentist as he works on his patients.

Answer 2

Dental assistants keep dental offices running smoothly and efficiently. They provide administrative and clinical assistance to help dentists and hygienists give excellent care to dental patients. The responsibilities of dental assistant jobs vary, based on the type of practice they work in. Starting a career path as a dental assistant require training, and some states require a license to practice professionally.

Administrative responsibilities of dental assistants include scheduling appointments, collecting payments and health care information for billing, working with insurance providers to collect payments, and other general administrative tasks such as faxing, filing and maintaining patients' records. Clinical responsibilities typically include preparing work areas and patients' for dentists and hygienists, sanitizing dental equipment and offices, assisting dentists during dental procedures, as well as processing laboratory work and x-rays. Many dental assistants perform basic dental procedures such as polishing teeth, applying topical anesthetics, and applying sealants and fluoride.

Dental assistant training can be done in high school through a vocational program, through technical schools or community colleges. Many of these programs, including high school vocational programs, are accredited by the American Dental Association. Most programs can be completed in nine months to a year. Although the requirements for dental assistants vary by state, certification from the Dental Assisting National Board can increase employment opportunities. Obtaining this credential requires passing a written and practical exam. Dental assistants must also complete an accredited training program and obtain their cardiopulmonary resuscitation certification (CPR) to sit for the exam. Passing the exam results in becoming in nationally registered dental assistant. Many accredited training programs work with employers to help graduates gain employment and obtain this certification.

Dental assistants earn an average salary of $34,700 per year or $16.70 per hour, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Starting salaries generally range between $11 and $13.50 per hour. Employment of dental assistants is expected to increase over 30 percent through 2020. Growth is expected for a variety of reasons. Technological advancements in dentistry has allowed many individuals to keep their teeth throughout their life. An increasing elderly population will also increase the need for dental procedures and care.