Assistants select the instruments and materials needed for each patient. If dental compounds are needed, assistants prepare them. They set up the dental tray for the dentist. During dental work, assistants sit at the patient's side and hand instruments to the dentist. They keep the patient's mouth dry and clear by using water jets and suction devices.
Assistants maintain and sterilize instruments after use.
They may demonstrate proper care of teeth and gums. They may clean and polish dentures. Some dental assistants make impressions of teeth. Depending on the office, dental assistants may have laboratory or clerical duties. Lab duties include making temporary crowns and polishing removable dental work.