Dental Assistant
Even though the duties of a dental assistant vary from job to job, the occupation normally involves routine patient care and some standard office and laboratory tasks. Most dental assistants work close by while dentists examine their patients, ensuring that the patient is comfortable and that the dentist has all of the necessary tools and records on-hand. Dental assistants may also be in charge of sterilizing equipment, taking and processing dental x-rays, preparing molds and casts of teeth, and instructing patients on postoperative care.The responsibilities of a dental assistant in the office can include scheduling and confirming appointments, maintaining patient records, sending bills, receiving payments, and ordering dental supplies and materials. The dental assisting occupation requires protective clothing such as gloves, masks, and eyewear. Most jobs are in dentists' offices, and in 2006, 35 percent of dental assistants in the U.S. worked part time.
While some dental assisting positions offer training on the job, more and more students are pursuing certificates and degrees before they begin applying for work in this field. Certificate and diploma programs typically last one year or less, while associate degree programs take about two years to complete. State legislation sometimes prohibits dental assistants from performing advanced occupational tasks unless they are licensed or certified. Advancement in the dental field is limited without further education, as this career often leads to higher-paying jobs that require more skills. In 2006, dental assistants in the U.S. earned an average of $14.53 an hour. [Figures including job projections, reported median incomes, and salary estimates were revised to reflect data from 2006 on 2/20/08.]