Dental Assistant
Career Description
Dental Assistants perform a variety of patient care, office and laboratory duties. They often schedule and confirm appointments, receive patients, keep treatment records, and order dental supplies. They also work alongside a dentist handing instruments and materials and perform other related duties. A Dental Assistant is responsible for sterilizing instruments and equipment, preparing tray setups for the dental procedures and instructs patients on postoperative and general oral care.
Academic and Licensing Requirements
- High School diploma or equivalent. (*Nova Scotia Community College requires that a student have grade 12 Biology.)
Upon completion of the educational requirements, one must write the National Dental Assistant Exam.
Before applying for a license with the Provincial Dental Board of Nova Scotia, one must be an active member with the Nova Scotia Dental Assistant Association.