Career Description
Registered Dental Assistants are regulated health care professionals who work as an integral part of the health care team, under the supervision of a dentist, providing much-needed patient care and assistance to dentists and dental specialists.
You’ll get to work directly with patients, preparing them for dental exams, taking x-rays and dental impressions, and assisting the dentist directly during patient care.
Registered Dental Assistants are frequently responsible for following infection control processes and preparing, sterilizing and maintaining dental instruments, equipment, tools and filling materials.
If you have a desire to help others, are detailed and precise, and have an interest in health care, consider a career as a Registered Dental Assistant.
Being a Dental Assistant for 28 years has taught me many things. Providing care to your patients daily gives you a feeling of gratitude and satisfaction. Knowing you are helping your patients out of pain, or providing a better quality of life in changing their oral heath for the better, gives you comfort. A Dental Assistant profession is more than working with the team, it’s becoming part of a family.
— Fonda Marchand, Halifax, N.S.
Education
There are two accredited training programs for Dental Assistants in Nova Scotia.
NSCC Dental Assisting – Level II
CBBC Dental Assisting Diploma
Registration & Licensing
Dental Assistants in Nova Scotia are required to hold and maintain their license through the Provincial Dental Board of Nova Scotia.
Career Prospects — Where can I work?
There is a growing demand for Registered Dental Assistants in Nova Scotia.
Career opportunities are varied and can include:
- Private Dental Offices
- Dental Supply Companies
- Hospitals
- Community/Public Health
- Educational Institutions
- Dental Office Administration
Professional Resources:
- NSCC – Dental Assisting – Level II
- CBBC – Dental Assisting Diploma
- Provincial Dental Board of Nova Scotia
- Nova Scotia Dental Assistants’ Association
- Canadian Dental Assistants’ Association
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