Description
Perform chairside and administrative duties under a dentist’s direction, including patient preparation, instrument sterilization, tray setup, radiography, procedure assistance, and patient education. Provide postoperative instructions and complete delegated clinical tasks as permitted by state regulations. May schedule appointments, maintain records, handle billing/insurance, and manage supplies.
- • Prepare patients, sterilize and disinfect instruments, set up trays and materials, and assist during procedures.
- • Take and process dental x-rays following safety protocols.
- • Document treatment information and notes in patient records or EHR.
- • Obtain and record medical and dental histories and vital signs.
- • Deliver dentist-prescribed pre- and postoperative instructions.
- • Assist the dentist in managing medical or dental emergencies.
- • Pour, trim, and polish impressions and study casts.
- • Educate patients on oral hygiene and plaque control.
- • Take preliminary impressions and occlusal registrations.
- • Clean and polish removable dental appliances.
- • Perform coronal polishing, as permitted by state regulations.
- • Apply topical fluoride and sealants, as permitted.
- • Fabricate temporary restorations and custom trays from preliminary impressions, as directed.
- • Schedule appointments, manage records, process billing and payments, and complete insurance forms.
- • Monitor and order dental supplies and maintain equipment.
- • Assist with orthodontic procedures and appliance adjustments, as directed.
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Healthcare & Human Services
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Tasks & skills:
O*NET occupational data (work activities, skills, knowledge).
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Last reviewed: Jan 2026
