Dental assistants perform a combination of clinical and clerical duties, such as scheduling appointments, sterilizing instruments, preparing patients for exams and operating suction hoses during procedures. They also take X-rays, which help dentists develop appropriate treatment plans. Today we’ll be discussing the role of dental assistants in radiology.
X-ray machines pass invisible beams of energy through the body. Tissue absorbs this energy, creating an image known as an X-ray. Although all X-rays use the same principles, they require different techniques. Here are the most common types of X-rays used in the dental field.
Bitewing X-rays focus on a specific area of the mouth, so they’re helpful for detecting dental decay. When taking these X-rays, a dental assistant usually has the patient bite down into a piece of plastic or a plastic-covered box. Holding the mouth in a natural biting position aligns the teeth and prevents the mouth from moving.
Full mouth survey X-rays consist of multiple images. New patients often need these X-rays to help the dentist assist their overall oral health. You may also have to take full mouth survey X-rays on patients suspected to have jaw tumors or cysts.
Periapical X-rays capture the entire tooth, including the root and crown. Dentists use them to evaluate dental trauma, diagnose tooth infections, plan for root canals and monitor dental implants.
Occlusal X-rays capture the entire roof or floor of the mouth, so they can show a full arch of teeth. Pediatric dentists typically use these X-rays to find teeth that haven’t erupted (broken through the gums). They’re also useful for identifying tumors and cysts.
Panoramic photos show the entire mouth, including the upper and lower jaws, sinuses, surrounding nasal structures and temporomandibular joints. They’re often used to diagnose impacted wisdom teeth, identify hidden infections, locate tumors and plan extensive dental work. During this type of X-ray, a rotating arm moves around the patient’s head to capture a complete image.
Most states require dental assistants to complete a formal training program and/or pass a national certification exam. Enrolling in a dental assistant training program can help you meet the requirements in your jurisdiction.
In just a couple months, IMBC’s training program can have you ready to perform the clinical and administrative duties of a dental assistant. These duties include:
The Institute of Medical & Business Careers has a large dental lab, giving students the opportunity to work with the same tools and equipment found in dental offices. While working in the lab, you’ll learn how to follow national safety regulations, take dental impressions, fabricate custom mouth guards and perform other clinical tasks.
If you want a career that makes a difference in people’s lives, enroll in the IMBC Dental Assisting program today.
What role does radiology play in dental assisting?
Dental assistants take dental X-rays that help dentists diagnose oral health issues, develop treatment plans, and monitor conditions such as cavities, infections, and impacted teeth.
What types of dental X-rays do dental assistants perform?
Common X-rays include bitewing, full mouth survey, periapical, occlusal, and panoramic X-rays, each used to evaluate different areas and dental conditions.
How do you become a dental assistant?
Most states require completing a dental assisting training program and/or passing a certification exam, with training covering radiology, patient care, infection control, and clinical procedures.
