DENTAL ASSISTANT

Wage expectation: $24,000 – $50,000/year
CAREERS REQUIRING TRAINING TWO YEARS OR LESS

Nature of work:
Dental assistants assist dentists and hygienists during the examination and treatment of patients and perform clerical functions.

 

Training required:

  • Completion of a three-month to one-year college or other program in dental assistance or completion of secondary school with on-the-job training is required. 
  • Licensing is not mandatory, but is required to perform intra-oral duties in all provinces except Quebec. 

Main duties:

  • Prepare patients for dental examination and assist the dentist during the examination
  • Prepare, sterilize and maintain instruments and equipment
  • Educate patients concerning oral hygiene
  • Schedule patient appointments and record dental procedures performed
  • Take and develop X-rays
  • Take preliminary impressions for diagnostic casts
  • Fabricate temporary crowns and restorations.