According to people in this career, the main tasks are...
| Task | Importance |
|---|---|
| Prepare patient, sterilize or disinfect instruments, set up instrument trays, prepare materials, or assist dentist during dental procedures. | 96% |
| Record treatment information in patient records. | 95% |
| Assist dentist in management of medical or dental emergencies. | 93% |
| Order and monitor dental supplies and equipment inventory. | 91% |
| Expose dental diagnostic x-rays. | 91% |
| Provide postoperative instructions prescribed by dentist. | 91% |
| Instruct patients in oral hygiene and plaque control programs. | 86% |
| Take and record medical and dental histories and vital signs of patients. | 86% |
| Apply protective coating of fluoride to teeth. | 84% |
| Schedule appointments, prepare bills and receive payment for dental services, complete insurance forms, and maintain records, manually or using computer. | 83% |
| Make preliminary impressions for study casts and occlusal registrations for mounting study casts. | 83% |
| Pour, trim, and polish study casts. | 82% |
| Clean teeth, using dental instruments. | 80% |
| Fabricate temporary restorations or custom impressions from preliminary impressions. | 79% |
| Fabricate and fit orthodontic appliances and materials for patients, such as retainers, wires, or bands. | 76% |
| Clean and polish removable appliances. | 75% |
