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Dental assistants are expected to demonstrate acceptable attitudes of pride, enthusiasm, good work ethic, responsibility, respect for patient confidentiality and recognition of their importance as a member of the dental health team. Those interested in becoming a dental assistant may receive on the job training or could attend a training program offered in technical centers, community colleges or Armed Services. Dental assistants are often responsible for providing follow-up oral health care information to the patients. Dental Assistants are a valuable part of the dental care process. A career in Dental Assisting requires the job seeker to be people-oriented, have strong communication skills and enjoy working with their hands.

Dental assistants are responsible for working directly with dentists while patients receive treatment. They review and maintain patients' charts, pass instruments to the dentist during procedures, sterilize instruments, make temporary crowns and impressions of teeth for study models, polish patients' teeth, and take and develop X-rays. Dental assistants are hot commodities. They may be found working at solo, group and specialty practices, as well as hospitals, clinics and public and dental schools. Dental assistants are an integral part of daily office operations and administration, as well as patient care. The receptionist who greets you and schedules your appointments is oftentimes responsible for billing and insurance reimbursement.

Dental assistants are often selected over other candidates if they apply for Dental Hygienist training. Dental assistants are eligible to take the CDA examination if they have completed a dental assisting program accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation. Individuals who have been trained on the job or have graduated from non-accredited programs are eligible to take the national certification examination after they have completed two years of full-time work experience as dental assistants. Dental assistants are vital in making things happen-and, yes, this can include provisionals that will dazzle and amaze your patients!

Dental assistants are often capable of completing a training course within just twelve months. While it is not mandatory in all states that a dental assistant be licensed, many states severely limit the tasks an unlicensed dental assistant may perform. Dental assistants are the first line of defense in protecting Iowans from the spread of blood borne pathogens and infectious diseases. The dental assistant must not only perform infection control duties but must have a clear understanding of the risk to the patient and themselves, if their infection control responsibilities are not properly performed. Dental Assistants are also trained thoroughly in all office procedures and protocol including appointment and treatment recording, billing and payment receipt and dental supply ordering.