The role of a dental assistant (DA) is very important in every dental practice. In addition to providing patients with high-quality care, DAs offer invaluable assistance to the dentists they assist.
At Blue Ocean Dentistry in Glendora, dental assistants assist Dr. Fred Wong with instruments and supplies during various dental procedures. They also need to have a good nature when it comes to interacting with patients. This is especially true during COVID-19, when people share concerns about their safety during procedures. They also need to be very organized in record keeping and general office duties.
Typical Dental Assistant Tasks
Besides helping with appointments, filing, and billing, dental assistants support the receptionist, to make sure each patient is warmly greeted upon arrival. Other tasks typically performed:
- Preparing patients for dental work like crowns, bonding, and implants, while making sure they remain comfortable throughout every procedure.
- Recording information while the dentist examines each patient’s dental health.
- Helping to provide the dentist with freshly sterilized equipment.
- Helping to educate patients about correct oral hygiene necessary for healthy gums and teeth.
- May process x-rays and perform other lab-related tasks.
A dental assistant must also assist the dentist in complicated dental procedures such as bonding, crowns, and implants. They may also perform certain procedures on their own. Depending on the state, these may include:
- Regular cleaning of soft plaque deposits.
- Applying sealant to protect teeth from cavities.
- Administering topical anesthetic to help prepare patients for procedures.
- Using fluoride to protect patients’ teeth from cavities.
Skills required of a good dental assistant
At Blue Ocean Dentistry, we place a premium on the quality of care we provide our patients. The right dental assistant to join our team must be good with people and enjoy working as part of a close-knit team.
- Listening is another skill we require because it’s important that we understand the needs of our patients. What’s more, the dentist offers specific instructions that need to be followed relative to providing effective dental procedures.
- Paying close attention to detail is also important during dental procedures and dental assistants must ensure that any problem expressed by the patient is effectively seen to and remedied.
- Since dental procedures require accuracy and precision, a good dental assistant is dexterous and can help with procedures like implants and crowns.
- A professional appearance is always important in every dental practice. A dental assistant at Blue Ocean Dentistry will wear clean scrubs and practice good hygiene. To protect themselves and patients from infectious diseases, dental assistants wear protective clothing, surgical masks, safety glasses, and gloves. Although we have always observed these safety precautions, COVID-19 has made us extra cautious in order to guard our staff and patients’ health and safety.
- Dental assistants practice good organizational skills both in the office and in surgery and during procedures. This is important, since Dr Wong works precisely, without delays.
- Finally, a passion for dentistry and genuine caring for people is what should drive someone to become a dental assistant.
About Dr. Fred Wong of Blue Ocean Dentistry in Glendora, California
Dr. Fred Wong and the staff at Blue Ocean Dentistry use the latest available dental treatments, equipment, and materials – all of which make a marked difference in our patients’ experiences. We are committed to helping our patients achieve optimal dental health. We creatively combine dental science and artistry — which can literally redesign your smile. Since even a subtle change in your smile will help you to project self-confidence and high self-esteem, we love helping you feel good about yourself. We deliver the finest dental care at the most reasonable cost and accept most dental insurance plans as well as CareCredit. For more about the dental treatment plans we offer or to schedule an appointment, call today (626) 852-6999.