Dental Assistant

Assist the dentist during procedures (four-handed dentistry)

Prepare treatment rooms and instruments

Sterilize and disinfect instruments and equipment

Take and process dental X-rays (if certified)

Prepare dental materials (impressions, fillings, cements)

Suction and retract tissues during procedures

Apply topical anesthetics and fluoride (where allowed)

Greet and prepare patients for treatment

Explain procedures and post-operative instructions

Educate patients on oral hygiene

Ensure patient comfort and safety

Update and review medical/dental histories

Follow OSHA and CDC infection-control guidelines

Maintain a clean and safe clinical environment

Proper disposal of biohazard and sharps waste

Use PPE correctly

Schedule appointments

Manage patient records (paper or EHR)

Handle billing, insurance forms, and payments

Order and manage dental supplies

Answer phones and coordinate patient flow

Take impressions and bite registrations

Pour and trim dental models

Prepare temporary crowns (if allowed)

Send and receive cases from dental labs

Maintain patient confidentiality (HIPAA)

Work within the scope allowed by state law

Report equipment issues or patient safety concerns