Worker Characteristics Ability to do precise work on teeth Ability to find detail in written information, such as charts Ability to move the fingers quickly and accurately Ability to move the hands easily and skillfully Ability to see details in X-rays Ability to use words well when speaking to patients Ability to work with numbers Desire to help people with their physical needs Dental assistants should be able to work as part of a team. Occasionally judge the distance between teeth Occasionally need to tell the difference between colors Occasionally stoop when working on patients Occasionally talk and listen to patients and dentists Work Setting Dental assistants work inside in a dental office. About one in three dental assistants works part time. Most full-time dental assistants work between 32 and 40 hours a week. They may work evenings or Saturdays.
Some assistants work for more than one dental office.
Hazards include exposure to radiation when taking X-rays. They use lead shielding to protect patients from radiation. The dental assistant usually leaves the room while taking the X-ray. Other hazards include neck and back strain from stooping over patients. Assistants wear gloves, glasses, and masks to protect themselves from infectious diseases.