The Important Role of the Dental Assistant in Radiography

 


A dental assistant plays a vital role in ensuring successful radiographs. As the patient’s advocate, the dental assistant prepares the patient for the taking of radiographs, verifying instructions from dentists, and educating patients on what to expect. A provider of Dental Assisting Courses in St. Petersburg, FL, will dive deeper into these key responsibilities that are so important for patient safety and care.  


Preparing Patients for Dental Radiographs 


The dental assistant is responsible for preparing patients for dental radiographs by providing them with appropriate radiation protection garments and positioning them correctly before a radiograph is taken. For example, if a maxillary sinus radiograph is being taken, it is the assistant’s job to ensure that they have positioned their head correctly so that the image will be of optimal quality. 


In addition, it is also important that they provide the patient with all necessary information regarding radiation safety before taking any images. This includes informing them of any potential risks associated with radiation exposure and what steps they can take to minimize them.  


Performing Equipment Checks 


Before taking any X-rays, the dental assistant must check all equipment related to radiography to ensure that everything is functioning properly and safely. This includes checking X-ray machines and protective aprons or shields to make sure they are in good working condition before use. 

Checking equipment before each use helps ensure that radiation exposure levels remain within acceptable limits during a procedure and helps reduce potential risks associated with using faulty equipment or improperly calibrated machines. 

 

Verifying Instructions 


Before taking any X-rays, the dental assistant must verify the instructions from dentists. This is a key step in ensuring that all images are taken correctly and accurately. By verifying particular instructions with the dentist, the assistant can make sure they have all the necessary information to properly take a dental radiograph. 


Exposing Radiographs 


Upon completion of imaging, assistants can process the radiographs for further examination. By doing this, the dentist can save considerable amounts of time and guarantee that each image taken will be of optimum clarity before continuing with the patient's treatment. Any distorted images that are unsuitable for use must be retaken. 


Digital dental radiography is a staple in many clinics due to its reliability and convenience. Therefore, various institutions now offer certification programs specifically tailored to dental assistants. Moreover, some schools may include expanded functions courses in these certifications. If you are interested in receiving your Dental Radiographer Certification, contact the Dental Assisting Institute today! 

 

Dental Assisting Institute has served Central Florida since 2000. We offer a 10-week entry-level dental assistant training program, or for those dental assistants who already have on-the-job training, we offer CPR classes, and Florida X-ray & EFDA certification classes in just one day! 


Dental Assisting Institute Inc. 
4326 Park Blvd. N. Suite C-West 
Pinellas Park, Florida 33781 
(727) 547-4899 
http://www.dai-fl.com/ 

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