WORK PROCESSES
DENTAL ASSISTANT
O*NET/SOC CODE: 31-9091.00 RAPIDS CODE: 0101
Description: Assists dentist engaged in diagnostic, operative, surgical, periodontal, preventive, orthodontic, removable and fixed prosthetic, endodontic and pedodontic procedures during examination and treatment of patients: Provides diagnostic aids including exposing radiographs, taking and recording medical and dental histories, recording vital signs, making preliminary impressions for study casts and making occlusal registrations for mounting study casts. Performs clinical supportive functions including preparing tray setups for dental procedures. Assists dentist in management of medical and dental emergencies. Assists in maintaining patient treatment records and maintaining operatory equipment and instruments. Performs such laboratory procedures as pouring, trimming and polishing study casts; fabricating custom impression trays from preliminary impressions; cleaning and polishing removable appliances; and fabricating temporary restoration. Provides oral hygiene instruction, such as conducting plaque control program. Performs basic business office procedures, including maintaining appointment control, receiving payment for dental services and maintaining supply order.
APPROXIMATE HOURS
1. Learns company policies, rules, assists in management of
medical and dental emergencies, safety factors; orientation to
position of Dental Assistant
250
2. Learns to prepare and provide diagnostic aids including
exposing radiographs
300
3a. Learns to perform clinical supportive functions including
preparing and dismissing patients
300
3b. Learns to sterilize and disinfect instruments and equipment
250
4. Learns to provide postoperative instructions prescribed by
Dentist. To prepare tray setups for dental procedures
300
5. Learns to assist in maintaining patient treatment records and
maintaining operating equipment and instruments
300
6. Learns to perform laboratory procedures as pouring, trimming,
and polishing study casts
300
TOTAL HOURS
2000
