Dental Assisting is one of the fastest growing medical professions. Find out why….
Just like doctors utilize nurses, dentists utilize dental assistants to assist in many of the day-to-day tasks. Dental assistants assist in procedures, talk to patients about their treatment and ensure a sterile environment. They also work with the front desk and hygienists to coordinate treatment.
What do dental assistants do?
-Assist dentists with a variety of procedures
-Help patients through treatment
-Take and process x-rays
-Prepare and sterilize treatment rooms and equipment
-Performs a variety of office management tasks
-Works with patients, insurance companies, dental supply companies and other health professionals
Projected Growth in Dental Assisting
In 2012, there were 74,000 new dental assisting jobs added and this number is projected to grow by 25%, which is much faster than any other medical profession. There are more older adults than ever before who are keeping their teeth through their later years; there is a large segment of the population that requires dental care. For dentists to keep up with this demand, they are adding more dental assistants to their staffs.
Where do dental assistants work?
-Private dental offices
-Dental Schools
-Dental clinics
-Government clinics and health departments
-Dental supply companies
-Specialty practices
-Hospital dental clinics
-Insurance companies
The Benefits of Dental Assisting:
-Family Friendly Hours
-Holidays and weekends off
-Great work environment
-Flexibility: many opportunities to work full time or part time
-You can find employment anywhere in the United States
-Pay averages from $12-$20/hour