dental assistant

A dental assistant is a qualified individual who performs dental work under the supervision of a dentist. They are the largest group of dental auxiliaries, making up about 65 percent of the total.1

Dental assistants' duties can vary depending on the dentist's delegation, but generally include:
* Preparing patients for treatment
* Setting up materials and equipment, including sterilization of instruments
* Maintaining records of appointments and treatments
* Assisting the dentist at the chairside during procedures like restorative dentistry, surgery, and prosthetics
* Developing dental X-rays

In some regions, like New Zealand, individuals with similar roles may have different titles and broader responsibilities, such as dental therapists or dental hygienists who provide care programs for children.2