> Support Staff: Dental Assistants
The dental assistant With advances in technology, dental assistants must be prepared to play an instrumental role in the practice.
Continual advances in technology and a growing focus on improving the patient experience and achieving best possible outcomes has impacted the role of dental assistants. “Dental assistants today require a much broader base of knowledge than in the past,” says Tim Whitaker, DMD, Marquee Dental Partners. Not only must they understand different materials
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and how they interact with other substances, they need advanced knowledge and training to stay on top of new technology, he points out. “Regardless of whether they are working in a stand-alone practice or a dental service organization (DSO), dental assistants have three key responsibilities,” says Whitaker. “First, their job is to provide a clear working
Efficiency In Group Practice : ISSUE 3 • 2020
: By Laura Thill
field for the dentist in a timely manner, with minimum discomfort to patients and resulting in a quality restoration. Second, they must educate and relax patients by explaining the treatment that’s to be provided, as well the value of additional treatments needed. Third, dental assistants must be instrumental in providing a safe, clean environment for patients.”
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