There are a lot of things to consider before you enter a career building program, and you may have questions to ask a dental assistant when you think of becoming a dental assistant yourself. Here you can find the answers to the more common questions related to the dental assistant field.
What does a dental assistant do?
Dental assistants work with dentists, hygienists and lab technicians and perform the following duties for the treatment of the dental patients.
- Booking appointments
- Answering patients for billing questions
- Prepare treatment rooms
- Sterilize equipments and appliances
- Keep instruments ready during procedure
- x-ray processing
Do I need to go to a dental career school?
Yes, some states do not allow dental assistants for on job training and require a licensure which you get only when you go through a dental assisting program.
If you are in a state with no formal education requirements, you can still earn a handsome amount while being on dental assistant training. Completing a training program shows the prospective employers that you are capable and well equipped for the job.
But if you complete schooling from an accredited program you will be eligible to test for the national certification called certified Dental Assistant (CDA) exam from the Dental Assisting National board (DANB)
What do you learn from dental assistant training?
In school, you get a chance to learn about the anatomy and physiology of the mouth including the teeth, gums, jaw and tongue. You study about the instruments, equipment, materials, radiology, chairside practice and many other information about the profession.
How long does dental training take?
Dental assistant training programs leading to a certification or diploma take as few as 10 months to complete. Also there are associate programs which can take approximately 18 months to 2 years for completion.
What is the cost of dental school?
Total cost of the dental school is determined by the type of school (private or public), type of program (certificate or associate degree) and in-state v/s out of state status.
Do dental schools offer financial aid?
There are many schools that accept applicable financial plans and offer flexible payments plans. Financial aids that are common for dental students by the dental schools are grants, scholarships and student loans.
How to get a dental assistant license?
If licensing is required by your state then your school will prepare you for the state-approved testing. This test includes a written section as well as a hands-on evaluation.
What kind of job can I pursue being a dental assistant?
Dental assistant is the most common job among dental assistant training grads. However, you can enter into other professions with a little more training or certification:
- Dental hygienist
- Dental office administrator
- Dental business team representative
- Dental sales representative
- Dental assistant instructor
Does dental assistant training involve live patients?
Dental assistant training consists of both live patients as well as mannequins.
Are any immunizations required to work in this field?
Dental assisting certification students have to undergo a hepatitis B series as well as the TB skin test within the last year.
When should I start a dental career?
If you feel that you have completed all the dental assistant requirements, you can start your career as soon as you finish. You may get a chance to earn a handsome amount even in the initial phase.
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