Dental Assistants
Alt Names: Certified Dental Assistant (CDA), Registered Dental Assistant (RDA), Certified Registered Dental Assistant (CRDA), Orthodontic Assistant
Career Description
Dental Assistants work as the “right-hand men” of Dentists. Duties for these professionals range from record keeping to patient care.
Job Responsibilities
Assist dentists during dental procedures
prepare and provide information to patients prior and post procedure
Sterilize medical equipment
Take and record medical records regarding dental history
Process x-rays and do lab tasks under the direction of dentist
Education & Training
Obtain dental assisting certificate from accredited programs taught by dental schools, community colleges, vocational schools, etc
Typical program completion takes 9-11 months
Important Courses & Info:
Some schools offer training via distance, part time, or acceleration training programs
License and/or Certification
Requirements for certification varies by state
Must complete accredited Dental Assistant program
In order to be a certified professional, one must pass the Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) exam
Salary
2010 Median : $33,470 [Source:BLS.Gov]
Valuable Skills & Qualities
This occupation is good for people who are:
Helpful
Empathetic
Dexterous with both hands
Knowledgeable
Good communicators
Work Environment/ Setting
Dentist offices
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