Dental Assistant

Duties

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Take preliminary impressions for study models, remove sutures, place and remove rubber dams, perio-packs, matrix bands, and wedges.

Instruct patient in proper dental techniques, care of appliances, and causes of dental decay.

Pour and trim model from impressions and construct custom impression trays.

Chart examination and treatment information as relayed by dentist to patient records.

Pass instruments and materials to and from the dentist; keep area of operation clear using high speed evacuator, suction tip, and irrigation; and retract tissue, tongue and cheek

Aid in the training of trainee dental assistants and students; demonstrate clinic maintenance, chair side assistance, and radiographic duties regularly performed.

Perform dental radiographic tasks such as intra- and extra- oral radiographs of patients.

US Department of War