423211 – Dental Assistant
Description
Prepares patients for dental examination and assists Dental Practitioners, Hygienists and Therapists in providing care and treatment.
Skill Level
4
Alternative Titles
- Dental Chairside Assistant
- Dental Nurse
Skills Assessment Authority
Caveats
No caveats apply to this occupation.
Group: 4232 Dental Assistants
Description
prepare patients for dental examination and assist Dental Practitioners, Hygienists and Therapists in providing care and treatment.
Tasks
- receiving and preparing patients
- arranging and handing instruments, medication, and other dental requisites to Dental Practitioners
- preparing dental materials and processing X-rays
- using suction devices and water sprays
- performing routine maintenance on equipment
- sterilising and preventing cross infection of equipment
- may advise patients on dental health education and post-operative care and procedures
- may act as receptionist for Dental Practitioners
- may perform billing and other clerical tasks
Skill Level
Most occupations in this unit group have a level of skill commensurate with the qualifications and experience outlined below.
In Australia:
AQF Certificate II or III (ANZSCO Skill Level 4)
In New Zealand:
NZ Register Level 2 or 3 qualification (ANZSCO Skill Level 4)
At least one year of relevant experience may substitute for the formal qualifications listed above. In some instances relevant experience and/or on-the-job training may be required in addition to the formal qualification.