How to Become a Dental Therapy Assistant: Australian Careers in Dentistry

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HLT35021

Certificate III in Dental Assisting

Studying this online HLT35021 Certificate III in Dental Assisting, offered in conjunction with Integrated Care & Management Training Pty Ltd (RTO: 90197), provides you with the education and training to develop your skills as a professional dental assistant.

In this certificate course, you will develop skills in all aspects of dental assistance, including infection control and OH&S procedures, operation and maintenance of dental instruments, processing and storing of radiographic film and equipment, and cleaning and sterilising of instruments and treatment rooms.

You will also gain knowledge and understanding of first aid requirements and the disposal of surgery waste. In addition, this online dental assisting program will give you the administrative and communication skills required of a modern dental assistant, and a solid understanding of diverse patient care requirements.

Administrative training in how to manage appointments, process payments and maintain accurate client records will complement the more technical aspects of the course.

Work Placement

There is also a practical component to this course with 350 hours of work placement in a dental surgery of your choice.

PLEASE NOTE – Open Colleges is a privately-run RTO, not government-run like a TAFE, so they cannot offer government funding. Please check eligibility requirements before beginning an enrolment with Open Colleges.

Online, Workplace

Online

Dental Assistant, Dental Hygiene Assistant, Dental Prosthetist Assistant, Dental Receptionist, Dental Therapy Assistant

Price may vary

Up to 18 months

HLT35021

Certificate III in Dental Assisting

The Certificate III in Dental Assisting prepares you to assist with oral health care procedures, assist in dental radiography and comply with infection control policies and procedures. This nationally recognised dental assisting qualification allows you to build on your existing communication skills and equips you with the skills required to assist with administration processes in dental practices.

Once you’ve obtained Certificate III in Dental Assisting, you will be qualified to work as a Dental Assistant for a variety of dental professionals, including a Dentist, Dental Hygienist or Dental Therapist. As a Dental Assistant, your key focus is to ensure patients are comfortable and experience a high level of care, whether that’s at the front of house or whilst undergoing treatment.

This course includes both theory and practical components with all theory delivered online, meaning you set the pace of your studies to fit into your schedule.

Work Placement

This course also requires a minimum of 350 hours of work placement in a dental clinic and a suitable supervisor able to sign off on the practical demonstration elements.

Please note: This is a fee-for-service program, it is not government funded.

Online

Dental Assistant, Dental Hygiene Assistant, Dental Receptionist, Dental Sterilisation Nurse, Dental Therapy Assistant

Price may vary

12 months

HLT45021

Certificate IV in Dental Assisting

HLT45021 Certificate IV in Dental Assisting course is a fantastic way to up-skill and create new opportunities for people who have completed their Certificate III in Dental Assisting. This practical course is designed to ensure that you gain advanced skills in areas such as equipment sterilisation, managing reusable medical equipment and clinical photography. You will also gain an in-depth understanding of required medical terminology as well as practical skills such as first aid.

When completed, the course will give you access to a variety of dental care industry positions, such as Dental Assistant, Dental Therapy Assistant and Dental Sterilisation Nurse.

Practical component

There are no mandatory workplace hours to complete this qualification. However, Students must have access to a dental practice, equipment for sterilisation, imaging equipment and a qualified supervisor i.e. a person who holds Certificate IV in Dental Assisting or a higher relevant qualification to complete their course.

To successfully complete the units’ assessment requirements, students must have access to a suitably equipped dental clinic. This includes specific equipment necessary for hands-on practice and assessment. If you are unsure whether your clinic meets the necessary requirements, please contact Foundation Education for further details and a comprehensive list of required equipment.

Please note: This is a fee-for-service program, it is not government funded.

Online

Dental Assistant, Dental Hygiene Assistant, Dental Sterilisation Nurse, Dental Therapy Assistant

Price may vary

Self-paced; max 12 months

HLT35021

HLT45021

Certificate III in Dental Assisting and Certificate IV in Dental Assisting (Dental Radiography)

Gain specialised skills that will give you a professional advantage as a dental assistant with the online HLT35021 Certificate III in Dental Assisting and HLT45021 Certificate IV in Dental Assisting (Dental Radiography) course from Foundation Education.

You will learn how to provide a high level of patient service, maintain impeccable standards of infection control and assist a dental professional with oral health care procedures. You will also learn how to produce dental radiographic images, a key specialisation in the dental services sector.

The coursework is delivered online by Foundation Education, allowing you to move through the units at your own pace and schedule your study time around your personal and work commitments.

As a practical component of this course you will need to complete 350 hours of work placement, with the first 50 hours completed in simulation.

Please note: This is a fee-for-service program, it is not government funded.

Online

Dental Assistant, Dental Hygiene Assistant, Dental Hygienist, Dental Radiographer, Dental Receptionist, Dental Sterilisation Nurse, Dental Therapy Assistant

Price may vary

Up to 24 months

HLT45021

Certificate IV in Dental Assisting (Dental Radiography)

The HLT45021 Certificate IV in Dental Assisting (Dental Radiography), will provide you with the essential skills and knowledge you need to become a Dental Radiographer and assist Dentists undertaking dental procedures. You will learn specialist radiation biology and protection skills to take clinical photographs and prepare and produce a prescribed dental radiographic image, as well as being able to interpret and apply medical terminology. You will graduate with job ready skills that will allow you to work in a range of sectors, including dental, oral surgery, orthodontics and community health clinics.

Dental Assistants are imperative to all aspects of a dental practice, as they ensure that high standards of quality patient care are met. If you’re looking for flexible working hours, Dental Assisting is a great option, as many practices offer casual and part-time work.

Work Placement

There are no mandatory workplace hours to complete this qualification. However, students must have access to a dental practice, equipment for sterilisation, imaging equipment and a qualified supervisor i.e. a person who holds Certificate IV in Dental Assisting or a higher relevant qualification to complete their course.

Please note: This is a fee-for-service program, it is not government funded.

Online

Dental Assistant, Dental Radiographer, Dental Sterilisation Nurse, Dental Therapy Assistant

Price may vary

12 months

HLT35021

HLT45021

Certificate III in Dental Assisting and Certificate IV in Dental Assisting

Become a fully qualified professional Dental Assistant, or upskill to move onto the next stage of your dental practice career, with the nationally recognised HLT35021 Certificate III in Dental Assisting and HLT45021 Certificate IV in Dental Assisting from Foundation Education.

This course is designed to give you all the skills you need to succeed in any assistant role within dental practices, and will teach you crucial skills such as how to assist with administration of a dental practice, how to prepare for and assist with dental procedures, how to assist with dental radiography, how to process reusable medical devices and equipment and how to comply with infection prevention and control policies and procedures.

On completion of the course, you will be fully qualified to work across multiple dental assisting roles in any dental practice in Australia.

Please note: This is a fee-for-service program, it is not government funded.

Online

Dental Assistant, Dental Hygiene Assistant, Dental Nurse, Dental Receptionist, Dental Sterilisation Nurse, Dental Therapy Assistant

Price may vary

Up to 24 months

On this page

What is a Dental Therapy Assistant?

What will I do?

What skills do I need?

Resources

What is a Dental Therapy Assistant?

The role of a Dental Therapy Assistant is both rewarding and dynamic, offering individuals the opportunity to make a significant impact on patients’ oral health and overall well-being. These professionals work closely with dentists and dental hygienists, providing essential support in various clinical settings. Their primary focus is to assist in the delivery of dental care, ensuring that patients receive the best possible experience during their visits. This career is ideal for those who enjoy working in a healthcare environment and have a passion for helping others maintain their dental health.

Dental Therapy Assistants have a diverse range of responsibilities that contribute to the smooth operation of dental practices. They prepare treatment rooms, sterilise instruments, and assist during dental procedures, ensuring that everything is in place for the dentist to perform their work efficiently. Additionally, they often take patient histories, manage appointments, and provide education on oral hygiene practices. This multifaceted role not only requires technical skills but also strong interpersonal abilities, as they frequently interact with patients, helping to alleviate any anxiety and ensuring a comfortable experience.

Common tasks for a Dental Therapy Assistant include taking X-rays, applying fluoride treatments, and assisting with the administration of local anaesthetics. They play a crucial role in patient education, explaining post-treatment care and preventive measures to maintain oral health. The position also involves administrative duties, such as managing patient records and billing, which are essential for the effective running of a dental practice. This blend of clinical and administrative responsibilities makes the role both varied and engaging, appealing to those who thrive in a fast-paced environment.

Overall, a career as a Dental Therapy Assistant is an excellent choice for individuals seeking a fulfilling role in the healthcare sector. With the growing demand for dental services, this profession offers stability and opportunities for advancement. Those who enter this field can take pride in their contributions to improving patients’ lives, making it a truly rewarding career path.

Career snapshots For Dental Therapy Assistants

The role of a Dental Therapy Assistant is vital in supporting dental professionals and ensuring patients receive quality care. This position typically attracts individuals who are compassionate and detail-oriented, making it a rewarding career choice for those interested in the healthcare field.

Average Age: 30-40 years
Gender Distribution: Predominantly female (approximately 70%)
Hours per Week: Full-time positions generally require 38-40 hours per week
Average Salary: Approximately AU$54,000 per year
Unemployment Rate: Low, around 3% for healthcare roles
Number of People Employed: Approximately 20,000 in Australia
Projected Growth: Expected to grow by 10% over the next five years

As the demand for dental services continues to rise, the role of Dental Therapy Assistants is becoming increasingly important. This growth is driven by an ageing population and a greater emphasis on oral health, making it a promising career path for those looking to enter the healthcare sector.

What will I do?

A Dental Therapy Assistant plays a vital role in supporting dental professionals and ensuring a smooth operation within dental practices. They assist in various clinical and administrative tasks, contributing to patient care and the overall efficiency of the dental team. This position requires a blend of technical skills, interpersonal communication, and a commitment to maintaining a safe and welcoming environment for patients.

Patient Preparation – Assisting in preparing patients for dental procedures by ensuring they are comfortable and informed about the process.
Instrument Sterilisation – Cleaning and sterilising dental instruments and equipment to maintain a hygienic environment.
Assisting Dentists – Supporting dentists during procedures by handing them instruments and materials as needed.
Patient Records Management – Maintaining and updating patient records, including treatment plans and medical histories.
Scheduling Appointments – Managing the appointment calendar, scheduling patient visits, and confirming appointments.
Inventory Management – Monitoring and ordering dental supplies to ensure the practice is well-stocked.
Patient Education – Providing patients with information on oral hygiene and post-treatment care.
Administrative Support – Performing clerical tasks such as billing, filing, and answering phone calls.
Emergency Preparedness – Being prepared to assist in emergency situations, including basic first aid and CPR if necessary.

What skills do I need?

A career as a Dental Therapy Assistant requires a unique blend of skills that are essential for providing effective support in dental practices. Key competencies include strong communication skills, which are vital for interacting with patients and dental professionals alike. Attention to detail is crucial, as the role involves assisting with various dental procedures and ensuring that all equipment is properly sterilised and maintained. Additionally, a solid understanding of dental terminology and procedures is beneficial, enabling the assistant to contribute meaningfully to patient care and treatment plans.

Moreover, organisational skills play a significant role in managing patient records, scheduling appointments, and maintaining a clean and efficient workspace. Empathy and a patient-centric approach are also important, as Dental Therapy Assistants often work with individuals who may feel anxious about dental treatments. By fostering a supportive environment, they help to enhance the overall patient experience. Continuous professional development and a commitment to learning about new dental technologies and practices are also essential for success in this dynamic field.

Skills/attributes

Strong communication skills
Attention to detail
Ability to work in a team
Empathy and compassion for patients
Basic knowledge of dental procedures
Organisational skills
Time management abilities
Proficiency in using dental software and technology
Understanding of infection control protocols
Ability to follow instructions and protocols
Customer service skills
Willingness to learn and adapt
Physical stamina for assisting in procedures
Problem-solving skills

Resources

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VIC

ACT

TAS

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How to Become a Dental Therapy Assistant: Australian Careers in Dentistry

Practical component

What is a Dental Therapy Assistant?

Career snapshots For Dental Therapy Assistants

What will I do?

What skills do I need?

Skills/attributes

Resources

Career Outcomes