Chairside Dental Assistant: Everything You Need to Know

Maria Dahle • March 8, 2023

Do you want to learn more about the role of a chairside dental assistant?

Two dentists are examining a patient 's teeth in a dental office.

Saama Learning Academy Chairside Dental Assistant: Everything You Need to Know


Are you interested in a career as a dental assistant? Do you want to learn more about the role of a chairside dental assistant? If so, you have come to the right place. In this article, we will provide an overview of the responsibilities of an SLA Chairside Dental Assistant, the educational requirements for the position, and the benefits of pursuing a career in dental assisting.


What is a SLA Chairside Dental Assistant?


A chairside dental assistant is a healthcare professional who works closely with dentists to ensure the efficient and effective delivery of dental care to patients. A Saama Learning Academy ( SLA ) Dental Assistant performs a wide range of duties, including preparing treatment rooms, sterilizing dental instruments, assisting with patient care, and performing administrative tasks.


Responsibilities of an SLA Chairside Dental Assistant


A SLA Chairside Dental Assistant has a broad range of responsibilities that help to ensure the smooth operation of a dental practice. Some of the key duties of a chairside dental assistant include:


Preparing treatment rooms


A SLA Chairside Dental Assistant is responsible for preparing treatment rooms before patients arrive. This includes cleaning and disinfecting surfaces, setting up equipment, and ensuring that everything is organized and ready for the dentist to use.


Sterilizing dental instruments


A SLA Chairside Dental Assistant is responsible for ensuring that all dental instruments are sterilized and ready for use. This is a critical part of preventing the spread of infection and disease in a dental practice.


Assisting with patient care


A SLA Chairside Dental Assistant works closely with the dentist to provide high-quality care to patients. This includes assisting with procedures, taking X-rays, and providing education to patients about oral health.


Performing administrative tasks


An OceanPointe Dallas Chairside Dental Assistant is responsible for performing a wide range of administrative tasks, such as scheduling appointments, maintaining patient records, and handling billing and insurance claims.


Educational Requirements for a Saama Learning Academy Chairside Dental Assistant


Becoming a SLA Chairside Dental Assistant typically requires completing a dental assisting program at a vocational school, community college, or university. These programs typically take between nine months and two years to complete and cover topics such as dental anatomy, dental materials, infection control, and radiology.


However, Saama's Dental Assistant Program takes only 10 weeks to complete!


After completing a dental assisting program, graduates may need to obtain certification or licensure in their state. Requirements vary by state, but may include passing a written or practical exam.


Benefits of Pursuing a Career as a SLA Chairside Dental Assistant


There are many benefits to pursuing a career as a SLA Chairside Dental Assistant. Some of the key advantages of this career include:


Job security


Dental assistants are in high demand, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting a 7% increase in employment between 2019 and 2029. This means that there are many opportunities for individuals who want to pursue a career as a chairside dental assistant.


Competitive salary


The median annual wage for dental assistants was $41,180 in May 2020, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This is a competitive salary for a healthcare position that does not require a college degree.


Opportunities for advancement


Dental assistants may have opportunities to advance their careers by obtaining additional certifications, pursuing continuing education, or becoming office managers.


Flexibility


Many dental practices offer flexible scheduling options, making it possible for individuals to balance work with other responsibilities such as family or education.


Conclusion


In conclusion, a SLA Chairside Dental Assistant plays a critical role in the delivery of high-quality dental care to patients. This career offers job security, competitive pay, and opportunities for advancement. If you are interested in pursuing a career as a chairside dental assistant, you will need to complete a dental assisting program and obtain certification or licensure in your state. Once you have completed these requirements, you will be able to enjoy a rewarding career in a growing and in-demand field.


If you are interested in becoming a SLA Chairside Dental Assistant, we recommend that you do your research and explore your educational options. Talk to professionals in the field, and consider the benefits of pursuing this career path. With hard work and dedication, you can build a successful and fulfilling career as a dental assistant.




A woman in a red shirt is holding dental instruments
By Maria Dahle February 22, 2023
Looking to kick-start your career in the dental field? Look no further than Saama LearningAcademy! Their comprehensive programs offer high-quality education and hands-on training, giving you the skills and experience you need to succeed in your career. With job placement assistance and experienced instructors, Saama Learning Academy's Dental Assisting Academy is the perfect choice for anyone looking to start their journey in dental assisting. Learn more about their programs and what sets them apart from other schools in San Diego, California.
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