Some of the dental procedures that the dentist performs on patients include extracting root canals and wisdom teeth; during these procedures, the dental assistant helps out. They hand the dentist the instruments needed to complete the tasks. Another task is to keep the patients mouth clear and dry using a suction tool.
Another chair side dental assistant duty is to ensure that patient is comfortable while they're receiving their treatment. They are also known to keep the patients company in the waiting room and in the room where they're to receive their procedure. When in the room, the assistant prepares them to see the dentist. They also give the patient directions for post-dental treatment care.
Other chair side dental assistant duties consist of keeping the dental procedure room sanitized and prepared for the next patient. They are required to sanitize equipment to make sure that germs and body fluids don't spread to the next patient.
Some of the other tasks of a dental assistant are to help with taking x-rays and taking out stitches. The role they play varies in different states and dental offices. In some places, you are required to have a license to show that you have been trained in a specialty area of dental care.
The assistants are also known to conduct lab and office work. They are required to take phone calls and schedule appointments. They must also keep inventory of the dental supplies and order accordingly.
