Dental Assistant

A dental assistant performs limited clinical duties under the direction of a licensed dentist. Clinical duties may include equipment preparation and sterilization, preparing patients for treatment, assisting the dentist during treatment, and providing patients with instructions for oral healthcare procedures. May perform administrative duties such as scheduling appointments, maintaining medical records, billing, and coding information for insurance purposes.

• Prepare patients for treatment and assist the dentist during dental procedures.
• Sterilize or disinfect instruments and set up trays and materials for procedures.
• Record treatment information accurately in patient records.
• Assist the dentist in managing medical or dental emergencies.
• Prepare dental radiology equipment as needed for imaging.
• Take dental radiographs if RHS (Radiology Health and Safety) certified.

• High School Diploma or GED
• Postsecondary education, optional but a dental assisting certificate or associate degree is recommended
• Certification, optional but becoming a Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) is beneficial in many states
• PA State Licensure
• On-the-Job-Training