What does a dental assistant do?

A dental chairside assistant (sometimes known as a dental nurse) works closely with the dentist in all stages of the patient's treatment.

Duties include reception of the patient and preparation for treatment, sterilising instruments and setting them out for the dentist, mixing materials, developing and mounting x-rays and chairside assistance by passing instruments and using suction apparatus.

A dental assistant may also be involved in the administration of the practice by answering telephones, making appointments, maintaining patient records, ordering supplies, preparing accounts and collecting payments.

Personal Requirements

Manual dexterity
Good communication skills and interpersonal skills
Ability to concentrate and follow instructions
Good organisational ability and time management skills
Interest in Health Care work

Related Jobs

Dental Therapist
Dental Technician
Dental Hygienist

What training is required to become a dental assistant?

Much training is received 'on the job', but training courses are available and recommended.

To become a dental assistant you usually have to complete a certificate in dental assisting. Entry to the course below usually requires Year 10 with English and science. As subjects can vary between institutions, you should contact your chosen institution for full details.

You can also become a dental assistant through a New Apprenticeship in Dental Assisting. Entry requirements may vary, but employers generally require Year 10. For more details on New Apprenticeships, see Learning Pathways or call the New Apprenticeships Referral Line on 1800 639 629 (FREECALL).

Certificate Courses
RMIT University - City Campus:
Certificate III in Dental Assisting, 1 year part time or equivalent

For further information, contact RMIT

Enquiries in person:
RMIT Building 15, Ground Floor
124 La Trobe Street
Melbourne VIC 3000

Enquiries by mail:
Office for Prospective Students
GPO Box 2476V
Melbourne VIC 3001

Email: admissions@rmit.edu.au
Phone: (03) 9925 2260
Fax: (03) 9925 3070

Employment Opportunities

Most dental assistants are employed by dentists in private practices and clinics. Some dental assistants undertake further study to become dental therapists or dental hygienists. Job prospects depend on the state of personal dental health and dental health education, the public's ability to pay for dental services and the costs of dental services and health insurance covering dental work.

Additional Information

At present, dental assistants are not required to be registered with the Dental Registration Board of the State in which they intend to work. For more information see Dental Assistants (DAECA).

Details courtesy of the JOB GUIDE, Department of Education, Training and Youth Affairs. The JOB GUIDE can be viewed at http://jobguide.detya.gov.au