Dental Assistant

Overview

Prepares patients for dental examination and assists Dental Practitioners, Hygienists and Therapists in providing care and treatment.

Skills

Most occupations in this unit group have a level of skill commensurate with the qualifications and experience outlined below. AQF Certificate II or III (ANZSCO Skill Level 4)

Tasks

  • receiving and preparing patients
  • arranging and handing instruments, medication, and other dental requisites to Dental Practitioners
  • preparing dental materials and processing X-rays
  • using suction devices and water sprays
  • performing routine maintenance on equipment
  • sterilising and preventing cross infection of equipment
  • may advise patients on dental health education and post-operative care and procedures
  • may act as receptionist for Dental Practitioners
  • may perform billing and other clerical tasks

Alternative Titles

  • Dental Chairside Assistant
  • Dental Nurse

Source: 1220.0 - ANZSCO - Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations, First Edition.
Note: The tasks associated with the occupation are to be used as guidance only. The tasks listing may include tasks associated with the grouping/category to which the occupation belongs.