A dental assistant is a vital member of the dental team who works closely with dentists and dental hygienists to provide patient care. They assist with various tasks, such as preparing patients for treatment, taking X-rays, sterilizing instruments, and keeping dental records.

Dental assistants also play an important role in helping dentists during procedures, bypassing instruments and materials, providing suction, and ensuring patient comfort. They may also be responsible for taking impressions of teeth or creating temporary crowns or bridges.

In addition to clinical duties, dental assistants also have administrative responsibilities such as scheduling appointments, managing patient records, and billing. They are often the first point of contact for patients and are responsible for making sure the office runs smoothly and efficiently.  They are a valuable resource for patients, providing home care instructions and educating patients about dental procedures.

To become a dental assistant, individuals typically complete a training program that can range from 10 months to 2 years in length. Most provinces also require dental assistants to be licensed or registered. Strong communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work well in a team are important qualities for success in this field.

Overall, dental assistants are a vital part of the dental team, providing support and contributing to the overall delivery of high-quality patient care.