Dental Assistant Responsibilities in Missouri

Patient Care and Comfort

• Preparing Patients for Procedures: Assistants ensure that patients are comfortable and ready for dental procedures.
• Assisting Dentists During Procedures: Dental assistants provide dentists with instruments, operate suction devices, and ensure that patients remain comfortable.

Clinical Duties

• Instrument Sterilization: Maintaining a sterile environment is vital for any dental office. Dental assistants are responsible for cleaning and disinfecting dental instruments to uphold the highest standards of patient care.

• Radiography: Dental assistants in Missouri may take and develop dental X-rays, which help to diagnose and treat dental conditions.

Administrative Duties: 

• Maintaining Patient Records: Keeping accurate patient records is extremely important. Dental assistants update patient information and document each procedure, ensuring seamless patient care.

• Scheduling Appointments: Dental assistants manage the scheduling of patient appointments, helping the office run efficiently and ensuring patients are seen in a timely fashion.

• Handling Billing and Payments: Assistants may process billing, handle payments, and manage insurance claims to ensure the financial aspects are running smoothly.

In Missouri, dental assistants play a crucial role in the day-to-day operations of dental practices. Their diverse responsibilities allow dentists to focus on providing high-quality patient care. From clinical support to administrative duties, dental assistants are integral to the success of dental offices across the state.