What Is a Dental Assistant, and What Do They Do?

If you've ever been to the dentist, whether to get a cavity filled or a routine dental cleaning, you've probably noticed someone working alongside the dentist. They might have sterilized and prepared the instruments and equipment needed for your appointment, taken impressions of your teeth, or even developed your x-rays. That person providing tons of patient care and support is the dental assistant. And whether you know it or not, the dental assistant plays a significant role in any dentistry facility.

The duties of a dental assistant may vary widely depending on location and experience; however, their everyday tasks typically include:

• Sterilizing and preparing instruments and equipment

• Preparing treatment rooms

• Taking patients' dental impressions

• Providing dental chair-side support

• Developing X-rays

• Educating patients on proper hygiene techniques

• Scheduling patient appointments

• Updating and managing patient records

• Filing insurance claims

Dental assistants play a critical role in helping dentists provide quality care to patients and ensuring the daily operations of the dental practice run smoothly.

What Is a Dental Hygienist? What Do They Do?

A dental hygienist is a licensed professional in oral health who works under the supervision of a dentist. They provide preventive and curative care to patients by cleaning teeth and promoting good oral health. Sometimes, a dental hygienist may be responsible for screening patients for oral cancer and other conditions, such as gingivitis. They also may help develop treatment plans with the dentist. Dental hygienists typically work in private dental practices but can also be found in other work settings, like public health clinics, schools, and long-term care facilities.

The duties of a dental hygienist vary depending on location and experience; however, their everyday tasks usually include:

• Cleaning teeth and removing plaque and tartar

• Recording patients' medical and dental histories

• Applying oral treatments to help prevent cavities and gum disease

• Screening patients for oral cancer and other conditions

• Taking X-rays

• Developing treatments plans with dentists

• Educating patients on proper oral hygiene

Dental hygienists are essential members of the dental team and play a crucial role in helping patients maintain good oral health and prevent dental problems.

How Much Do Dental Assistants Make per Hour / Year?

You can check the median annual wage for dental assistants on the BLS website.

How Much Do Dental Hygienists Make an Hour / Year?

You can check the median annual wage for dental assistants on the BLS website.

Job Outlook for Dental Assistants in the U.S.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, dental assistant employment in the U.S. is estimated to grow 8 percent between 2021 to 2031, with about 56,400 openings for dental assistants each year, which is faster than the average for all occupations. (7)

Job Outlook for Dental Hygienists in the U.S.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, dental hygienist employment in the U.S. is estimated to grow 9 percent between 2021 to 2031, with about 16,300 openings for dental hygienists each year, which is faster than the average for all occupations. (9)

Dental Assistant or Dental Hygienist?

Pursuing a career in the dental industry is an excellent career choice; however, it's essential to do your research and gain a better understanding of what a career as a dental assistant vs. dental hygienist entails before making a decision. Visiting dental practices and talking to assistants and hygienists can provide valuable insight and advice.

Dental assistants work closely with dentists and dental hygienists to provide patient care, perform administrative tasks, and assist with procedures. They typically have less education and training than dental hygienists, and their role is more focused on support and assistance.

On the other hand, dental hygienists have a more hands-on role in patient care. They clean teeth, take x-rays and educate patients on oral hygiene. They typically have a higher level of education and training than dental assistants, and they work independently or with a dentist to provide patient care.

Despite their differences, dental assistants and dental hygienists are essential members of the dental team and work together to provide quality patient care.

Dental Assistant vs. Dental Hygienist

So, if you're still wondering, dental assistant vs. dental hygienist? Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preferences and career goals. Dental assisting may be the right choice for you if you want a fast-paced job with plenty of opportunities for hands-on experience.

If you're looking for a role with more responsibilities and higher earnings potential, a dental hygienist career could be the way to go. Whatever path you decide to pursue, remember that both jobs offer growth, development, and advancement opportunities within the dental field. And, of course, both contribute to improving people's oral health!

Start an Exciting New Career as a Dental Assistant

Some people choose to complete a dental assistant program as a stepping stone toward becoming a dental hygienist. In fact, many dental hygienists have started their careers as dental assistants.

Dental assisting programs, such as our Dental Assistant Program at Phoenix Dental Assistant School, provide an introduction to dentistry and prepare individuals for entry-level positions as dental assistants. Individuals can gain hands-on experience and learn more about the field before deciding whether to pursue a career as a dental hygienist. Learn more about starting your career in the dental industry here!