Become a Dental Assistant

Dental assistants work closely with, and under the supervision of, dentists. Assistants perform a variety of patient care, office, and laboratory duties.

Typical Tasks performed by Dental Assistants include:

• Sterilize and disinfect instruments and equipment.
• Prepare and lay out the instruments and materials required to treat each patient.
• Obtain patients’ dental records.

Assistants make patients as comfortable as possible in the dental chair and prepare them for treatment. During dental procedures, assistants work alongside the dentist to provide assistance. They hand instruments and materials to dentists and keep patients’ mouths dry and clear by using suction or other devices. They also instruct patients on postoperative and general oral health care.

Dental Assisting Education & Training

Most dental assistant programs take 1 year or less to complete and lead to a certificate or diploma. Two-year programs offered in community and junior colleges lead to an associate degree. All programs require a high school diploma or its equivalent, and some require science or computer-related courses for admission.