Dental Assistant
As you may, Dental Assistant is to assist the Dentist as they treat patients. They gather the needed equipment and help during operations.
Core Tasks
- Clean and sterilize dental equipment and set up trays for dental procedures
- Make patients feel as relaxed as possible
- Take x-rays of patients’ mouths
- Pass instruments to the dentist as needed
- Operate suctioning device to keep patients’ mouths dry
Workplace
- Most work in dental offices
- Work in both reception areas and treatment rooms
- Usually work 32 to 40 hours a week
- Often work evenings and weekends
Earnings
- $23,000 to $62,000 a year
- The average is about $34,000 a year
- Most work full-time, though some part-time work is available
Education & Training
- A diploma or certificate
- Those who carry out advanced duties need to be certified
Attributes & Abilities
- Organized
- Good with people
- An interest in health issues and oral hygiene
- Detail-oriented
- Work well with your hands
"Welcome to Career Cruising." Welcome to Career Cruising. N.p., n.d. Web. 18 June 2012. http://www.careercruising.com/.