What do dental assistants actually do?
Dental assisting is a growing, in-demand profession integral to the modern dental office. Assistants help dentists and hygienists through exams, cleanings, and procedures — and keep the office running so patients are well cared for.
A new career filled with smiles.
The role of a dental assistant is centered around the patient. Whether chairside or at the front desk, you'll work directly with patients and help ensure they get the care they need. By showing empathy, listening, and building trust, dental assistants are at the core of the relationship patients have with the office as a whole.
Patient-centered
Build trust and comfort with every patient interaction.
Clinical + administrative
Assist procedures, sterilize, chart, and manage the workflow.
Team-driven
Work side by side with dentists, hygienists, and front-office staff.
Common questions about the role.
What are a dental assistant's primary responsibilities?
While the work assigned to dental assistants can vary from person to person and practice to practice, a dental assistant can expect to work closely with doctors and front office staff. Working with doctors involves sterilizing and organizing equipment, assisting during procedures, and other tasks associated with exams and surgeries performed in the office. Many dental assistants also welcome patients to the office after the front office staff calls them up for their appointment and may perform some administrative work as well.
How many days a week do dental assistants work?
The schedule of almost every dental office is different, but expect to work approximately 40 hours per week like other full-time jobs. At Peak Dental, for example, we are open five days a week for appointments with no availability on Saturday and Sunday. Many other practices close, at least to the public, on one weekday. Some offer limited weekend hours to allow patients flexible scheduling or to have built-in time for dental emergencies.
What is the career path for a dental assistant?
Dental assistants have the opportunity to obtain additional certifications so they can perform a wider range of tasks. As they acquire more knowledge and experience, some pursue other careers in dentistry — becoming dental hygienists, office administrators, lab or equipment technicians, dentists, and more. Working as a dental assistant first is the fastest way to really get a sense of the options within dentistry overall, so that any career change within the dental field is made with first-hand knowledge of what that role entails.
How are dental assistants different from dental hygienists?
A dental assistant and a dental hygienist are both important members of a dental team, but they have different roles. A dental assistant typically works alongside a dentist — helping with patient care, assisting with procedures, taking X-rays, and sterilizing instruments. A dental hygienist is responsible for cleaning teeth and providing preventive care, such as fluoride treatments and oral health education. While both require formal education and training, the roles are distinct and require different skills and knowledge.
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Get certified in just 13 weeks at Peak Dental Assisting School.