Dental Assistant

Duties and Responsibilities:

Dental assistants work under the charge of a dentist. As they perform lab work such as x-rays of the patient's teeth. Usually a dental assistant records and schedules appointments for the patient. As well as sterilize all dental instruments before use, ensure the patient is comfortable,and prepare patients for treatments or any planned procedures. In different states, some dental assistants are allowed to perform coronal polishing, sealant application, fluoride application, and topical anesthetic application.

Salary: $35,980(median annual wage-2015)

Education:

Although some states require a dental assistant to graduate an accredited program and pass an exam, many are offered in community colleges. Most programs take up to 1 year to complete and receive a diploma or certificate. There is also a program that may take up to 2 years to complete, this will lead to an associate’s degree.

Demand or need for this profession:

The employment rate of a dental assistant is seen to grow by 18% from 2014 to 2024. This is due to the likely research towards oral health and preventive dental care. As more dental assistants would be hired to complete routine tasks, allowing the dentist to see more patients and complete procedures.

Reflection: Do you think you would like to be one? Why? Why not?

I don't think i would like to be a dental assistant, it does not seem to be interesting. I also have some considerations on other careers. I never considered this as a future career. But I wouldn't lose respect to those who chose this career, it was what they happily chose. Some people are meant to do things others won't.