What is the primary role of dental assistants in chairside procedures?

The primary role of dental assistants in chairside procedures is to support dentists during those procedures. This support may include a variety of tasks such as preparing instruments, organizing the treatment area, helping with patient positioning, providing suction, and passing instruments to the dentist as needed. By efficiently assisting during treatments, dental assistants ensure that procedures run smoothly and effectively, allowing dentists to focus on delivering high-quality care.

While there are many other responsibilities that dental assistants may have, acting as a direct support to the dentist during clinical procedures is fundamental to their position. This collaboration enhances patient care and helps maintain a productive workflow in the dental office. The other roles mentioned—performing surgical procedures independently, educating patients exclusively, and managing dental office finances—are not typical functions of dental assistants and fall outside their primary responsibilities in chairside care.