Career as Dental Assistant

Ranjan K Baruah *

Dental problems are common around the world. More or less every one of us needs to visit dentist at a regular interval of time. This brings more demand for the dentist. Dentists are important part of health professionals. Dentists are doctors with BDS or MDS degrees but it is not possible for them to do all the activities inside a chamber.

In this regards some trained and experienced persons are needed and they may be termed as dental assistant. Dental Assistants are trained personnel who provide chair side assisting, four-handed dentistry, radiology and the use of dental materials in dental clinic. Dental Assistants greatly increase the efficiency of the dentist in the delivery of quality oral health care.

One does not need much qualification to become a dental assistant but needs to learn from the experts. Dental Assistants may be involved in the administration of the dental practice by answering telephones and making appointments. There should not be any confusion between dental assistants and dental hygienists.

Dental hygienists usually have a higher level of training and expertise. Dental assistants help both dentist and dental hygienists.

Some of the activities of dental assistants are:
o Scheduling appointments for patients,
o seating and preparing patients for dental treatment,
o providing assurance and support for the patient,
o maintaining patient dental and medical records,
o instructing patients on proper dental hygiene and oral care,
o assisting dentists with procedures during treatment, etc.

There can be a new opportunities in this field as the demand for the oral care has increased. There are dental training courses to start as a dental assistant. There are numerous dental colleges and schools in India, providing training courses on dental-assisting programs.

Diploma in Dental Assistance and Dental Operation Room Assistant are some of the courses in this field. Initially young people or other enters this profession as dental assistant but with learning and experience they may develop themselves in this profession and earn more.

Scholarships Update:

Ashok Khurana Scholarship: Ashok Khurana Scholarship is offered by University of Adelaide for Indian students in Australia. This scholarship has been established by Professor Ashok Khurana a former University of Adelaide staff member, to support the post-graduate education of outstanding Indian students who are undertaking full time post-graduate studies at the University.

The scholarship is only available for international students with Indian citizenship who are commencing a Master of Education. Each Scholarship recipient will have outstanding leadership qualities and a demonstrated ability to significantly enhance India.

Fair and Lovely Scholarship: Fair and Lovely Foundation has announced scholarships for girls and young women. It focuses on education, career and entrepreneurial skills. This foundation emphasizes majorly on women from low income group. Fair and Lovely foundation provides scholarships worth up to Rs. 1 lakh each year for deserving girl students. Last date for applying for the fair and lovely scholarship for girls is 15th November.

Admission/Exam Update:

Management Admissions: The faculty of management studies of the University of Delhi has invited application for admission test for MBA and Ph.D programmes for session 2016. Candidates applying to the programmes are required to visit FMS website and apply online. Applications will be received only through the online registration process. Last date of applying is 15th November.

CDS Exam: A Combined Defence Services Examination will be conducted by the Union Public Service Commission on 14th February, 2016 for admissions to various courses in Indian Military Academy, Indian Naval Academy, Air Force Academy, Officers Training Academy, etc. Last date of applying is 4th December.