What should an assistant do if they notice something unusual with a patient's dental health?

If an assistant observes something unusual regarding a patient's dental health, the most appropriate action is to inform the dentist immediately. This is critical because the dentist is responsible for diagnosing and creating a treatment plan based on comprehensive findings. By bringing any unusual observations to the dentist's attention right away, the assistant ensures that the patient receives timely evaluation and necessary intervention, which can be crucial for the patient's health. Prompt communication allows for a collaborative approach to patient care and can prevent potential complications or worsening conditions.

Waiting for the patient to mention an issue can lead to missed opportunities for early diagnosis and treatment, while documenting in the chart may not address urgent concerns that require immediate attention. Consulting with another assistant, while it may provide some additional perspective, does not replace the need for the dentist to be informed and involved in patient care decisions.