Dental Assistant - Premier Smiles PLC

1. Preparing Patients and Exam Rooms:

• Prepare patients for dental procedures by explaining procedures and making them comfortable.
• Set up and sterilize the treatment area, including arranging instruments, dental materials, and equipment needed for procedures.
• Maintain patient records, including medical history and treatment details.

2. Assisting During Procedures:

• Hand instruments and materials to the dentist during procedures.
• Suction or retract tissues in the mouth to maintain visibility and manage saliva and blood flow.
• Take X-rays by positioning the patient and operating the X-ray machine.

3. Patient Education:

• Provide post-operative care instructions and answer patient questions about procedures or home care.
• Educate patients about proper oral hygiene techniques and preventive care.

4. Administrative Tasks:

• Schedule appointments and manage patient records.
• Process insurance claims and help with billing.
• Maintain inventory of dental supplies and equipment, ensuring they are stocked and in working order.

5. Sterilization and Infection Control:

• Sterilize instruments and disinfect treatment areas to ensure a safe, clean environment.
• Follow infection control procedures to ensure the safety of both patients and staff.

6. Laboratory Work:

• Take dental impressions for molds, crowns, bridges, or dentures.
• Prepare materials for dental work, such as mixing fillings, cements, and other substances.

7. Handling Dental Equipment:

• Operate and maintain dental equipment like autoclaves, sterilizers, and X-ray machines.
• Assist with dental technologies (e.g., digital X-rays, lasers) as necessary.

8. Emergency Assistance:

• Assist in emergency dental situations, such as trauma cases or severe pain management.

Dental assistants work closely with the dentist to ensure that patients receive high-quality care in an efficient and comfortable environment. They need good communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work well in a team.