Z Dental Assistant Career

The schedule of almost every dental office is different, but expect to work approximately 40 hours per week like other full-time jobs. Some 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. These weekend hours can be in addition to or instead of weekday availability.

Dental Assistants have the opportunity to obtain additional certifications so that they can perform a wider range of tasks. As they acquire more knowledge and experience, some dental assistants pursue other careers in dentistry like becoming dental hygienists, office administrators, lab or equipment technicians, dentists, and more. Working as a dental assistant is the fastest way to get a sense of the career options available in dentistry first hand.

A dental assistant and a dental hygienist are both important members of a dental team, but they have different roles and responsibilities. A dental assistant typically works alongside a dentist, helping with patient care and performing administrative tasks. They may assist with procedures, take X-rays, and sterilize instruments. In contrast, a dental hygienist is responsible for cleaning teeth and providing preventive care, such as fluoride treatments and oral health education. They also assess patients' oral health and screen for oral diseases. While both professions require formal education and training, the roles of a dental assistant and dental hygienist are distinct and require different skills and knowledge.