Dental Assistant Career
The dental assistant works at chairside with the dentist, in the laboratory, and in the front office. Dental assistants benefits include the chance to work with people, the option for part-time or flexible hours, and the ability to get into a career without years of training.
Dental Assistant
Dental assistants work closely with, and under the supervision of dentists. Assistants perform a variety of patient care, office, and laboratory duties.
Chairside duties include receiving and preparing the patient for treatment; sterilizing and selecting instruments; assembling materials and equipment; organizing the work area; maintaining the operative field; exposing, processing, and mounting of dental radiographs if licensed.
Currently, DANB offers three certifications: Certified Dental Assistant (CDA), Certified Orthodontic Assistant (COA) and Certified Preventive Functions Dental Assistant (CPFDA).
Dental Assisting Programs are designed to prepare the student to function effectively as an integral member of the dental health care team. Throughout the program, the student will participate in classroom instruction, laboratory procedures, and supervised clinical experiences in order to learn the basic functions required of a Dental Assistant.