Dental Assistant

What people in this role do:

• Greet patients and prepare them for dental procedures
• Prepare surgery for dental treatment ensuring correct instruments / materials are ready for use by the dentist
• During oral examination or treatment, provide appropriate instruments and record findings
• Provide care for patients undergoing general or local anaesthesia
• During treatment clear patient’s mouth of saliva or dental materials by operating handheld suction or air and water-spraying equipment
• Ensure all instruments are clean and sterilised
• For infection control implement standard decontamination procedures
• Process, mount and file dental X-rays of patients
• Maintain dental supplies, dental equipment and instruments
• Take appointments for patients, keep accurate records of treatments, send out reminders for re-examinations and perform office duties

Your chances of success will be better if you have:

• Good hand coordination
• Ability to follow instructions and concentrate for long periods
• Good communication, interpersonal & organisation skills
• Good time management skills
• School Certificate

The Future

• Employment for a minimum of one year
• Employment areas include: dentists in private practices and clinics

Specialisation

• Dental Radiography
• Oral Health Education
• For more options see www.myfuture.edu.au

Who to contact for more information and advice?