Dental Assisting Competency Profile

The purpose of this Profile is to:

• outline the competencies for the Alberta dental assistants’ profession;
• provide a foundation for the College of Alberta Dental Assistants’ continuing competency program;
• serve as a guideline for the development of competency assessment tools and methods, performance management systems, and dental assistant job descriptions;
• provide a reference for the RDA’s ongoing self-assessment of competence;
• provide direction to post-secondary institutional programs regarding essential curriculum components;
• serve as a reference to inform employers and other stakeholders of the competence and potential of dental assistants in the dental care team; and,
• provide baseline information and reference for long-term manpower planning for dental and health care.

The profile is NOT intended to:

• be inclusive of all possible competencies required by dental assistants; some competencies may have been inadvertently missed;
• represent the competencies that ALL dental assistants must achieve;
• specify obligations and/or requirements of dental assistants for third party agencies or any other outside party;
• be permanent, but must be updated on a regular basis as requirements and technologies change; or
• be a step-by-step instructional guide for professional practice.

Future of the Document

This Competency Profile is meant to be a “living document;” it will evolve and change as dental practice evolves and changes. We welcome comments and suggestions to help us continuously improve and refine the Profile.

A-1: Anatomy and Physiology

A Dental Assistant possesses the knowledge, skills, judgments and attitudes to:

A-1-1 Identify the structures and functions of the body and its systems.

A-1-2 Identify the anatomy of the head and neck.

A-1-3 Describe and locate structures of the cranium, oral cavity and face.

A-1-4 Identify and describe tooth morphology of the human dentition.

A-1-5 Identify and describe how tooth loss affects oral anatomy and overall health.

A-1-6 Identify and describe the innervations of the oral cavity.

A-1-7 Identify the terminology, alignment and mechanics related to dental occlusion.

A-1-8 Identify and describe human growth and development such as:

• embryology and histology terms
• facial and palatal development
• tooth development
• eruption patterns
• exfoliation patterns
• tissues and structures of the teeth
• the hard and soft tissues of the oral mucosa
• developmental anomalies

A-2: Pathology

A Dental Assistant possesses the knowledge, skills, judgments and attitudes to:

A-2-1 Describe oral pathology and oral abnormalities.

A-2-2 Recognize diseases and infections that may affect oral health such as:

• oral cancer
• HIV / AIDS
• candidiasis
• diabetes

A-2-3 Identify potential oral pathological conditions.

A-3: Microbiology

A Dental Assistant possesses the knowledge, skills, judgments and attitudes to:

A-3-1 Identify and explain basic characteristics of micro-organisms and their role in the transmission of disease.

A-3-2 Identify diseases related to bacteria, spores, viruses, fungi and protozoa and prions.

A-3-3 Identify transmissible diseases.

A-3-4 Identify modes and routes of disease transmission.

A-3-5 Explain the composition and significance of biofilm on the oral cavity and overall health.

A-4: Pharmacology

A Dental Assistant possesses the knowledge, skills, judgments and attitudes to:

A-4-1 Understand the classifications of drugs and how medications may affect dental procedures.

A-4-2 Access drug reference materials.

A-4-3 Recognize and understand the purpose, common effects and interactions of therapeutic, non-prescription, nutraceutical, prescription and controlled drugs on client* care and safety issues.

A-4-4 Recognize the purpose and process of recording medications including dosages and frequency taken.

A-4-5 Recognize and understand the indications for pre-medications prior to dental treatment.

A-4-6 Recognize signs and symptoms of possible substance abuse.

* The term “client” in this Competency Profile refers to a patient (or their designated representatives), individual, customer, families, and groups being served by a dental assistant.

A-5: Dental Terminology

A Dental Assistant possesses the knowledge, skills, judgments and attitudes to:

A-5-1 Understand and explain areas of dentistry such as:

• General
  • preventive
  • restorative
• Specialty
  • endodontics
  • oral and maxillofacial surgery
  • orthodontics
  • pediatrics
  • periodontics
  • prosthodontics
  • oral pathology
• Other
  • geriatrics
  • public health
  • forensics
  • cosmetic
  • implant
  • sleep apnea
  • temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMD)

A-5-2 Understand and explain professionally acceptable medical / dental terminology, classifications and abbreviations in documenting, reporting and communicating such as:

• primary, mixed and permanent dentition
• occlusion, centric occlusion and malocclusion
• classification of restorations

A-5-3 Understand and explain tooth-numbering systems.

A-6: Dental Instruments, Handpieces and Equipment

A Dental Assistant possesses the knowledge, skills, judgments and attitudes to:

A-6-1 Identify and describe the purpose of dental instruments such as:

• examination instruments
• hand cutting instruments
• restorative instruments

A-6-2 Identify and describe the purpose of handpieces and accessories such as:

• slow-speed handpieces
• high-speed handpieces
• rotary cutting instruments
• laboratory instruments

A-6-3 Identify and understand the operation of dental equipment such as:

• client chairs
• operator’s and assistant’s stools
• dental units
• oral evacuation systems
• curing lights

A-7: Oral Health

A Dental Assistant possesses the knowledge, skills, judgments and attitudes to:

A-7-1 Understand the elements of oral health such as:

• function
• aesthetics
• absence or presence of disease

A-7-2 Understand the caries process and the factors affecting its development and progress.

A-7-3 Understand the periodontal disease process and the factors affecting its development and progress.

A-7-4 Understand the relationship between oral health and overall health.

A-7-5 Differentiate between intrinsic and extrinsic stains.

A-7-6 Understand oral health is maintained through:

• dietary analysis
• proper nutrition
• home care
• regular dental examinations
• fluoride therapy
• recommended treatments

B-1: Needles and Sharps

A Dental Assistant possesses the knowledge, skills, judgments and attitudes to:

B-1-1 Assemble, handle and dispose of needles and sharp instruments in accordance with site-specific protocol.

B-1-2 Adhere to site-specific protocol in the event of needle-stick and sharp instrument injury.

B-2: Hazardous Materials

A Dental Assistant possesses the knowledge, skills, judgments and attitudes to:

B-2-1 Recognize, apply and monitor appropriate procedures in accordance with current guidelines for the labeling, handling, storage, use and disposal of hazardous materials and biomedical wastes such as:

• radiographic processing solutions
• amalgam waste
• disinfecting and sterilizing solutions
• lead waste
• sharps
• tissue and blood soaked materials

B-2-2 Recognize and understand toxicity of dental materials.

B-3: Radiation and Lasers

A Dental Assistant possesses the knowledge, skills, judgments and attitudes to:

B-3-1 Comply with radiation and laser legislation and guidelines such as:

• dosimeter and lead-apron use
• protective eyewear/shield and signage use

B-3-2 Apply and monitor the effectiveness of radiation and laser procedures and equipment such as:

• registration of equipment
• quality control measures
• preventive maintenance

B-4: Workplace Safety

A Dental Assistant possesses the knowledge, skills, judgments and attitudes to:

B-4-1 Comply with the Occupational Health and Safety Act.

B-4-2 Utilize controls to identify and reduce risk of physical injury to oneself and others such as:

• hazard and exposure assessment (chemical, biological)
• safe handling, use and disposal of instruments and equipment
• safe lifting and transferring of loads (client, equipment)
• use of personal protective equipment (footwear, eyewear, headwear, and radiation protection as necessary)
• application of ergonomic techniques to reduce body stress and injury

B-4-3 Utilize strategies to identify and reduce risk of psychological injury to oneself and others such as:

• adhering to employer policy and procedures
• using non-violent crisis intervention and conflict management
• following procedures for reporting and documenting
• knowing rights and responsibilities under legislation
• knowing safe and appropriate responses to incidents or potential incidents
• knowing support services available in the event of an incident involving violence or harassment
• being aware of workplace violence and associated risk factors

B-4-4 Recognize and manage clients with behavioural and psychiatric disorders such as:

• substance abuse
• alcoholism
• drug dependence
• bipolar disorder and schizophrenia
• anxiety and depression
• post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

B-5: Emergencies

A Dental Assistant possesses the knowledge, skills, judgments and attitudes to:

B-5-1 Identify and interpret signs and symptoms of common medical conditions that may occur during dental treatment such as:

• chest pains
• hyperventilation
• allergic reactions
• seizures
• syncope

B-5-2 Adhere to site-specific procedures in the event of a dental or medical emergency with clients or staff.

B-5-3 Prepare for and respond to emergencies by demonstrating an ability to follow protocols such as:

• maintain emergency drugs, supplies and equipment
• recognize and report physiological changes
• initiate Emergency Medical System (EMS)
• apply first aid
• administer CPR (Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation)
• use defibrillation devices
• alert others to emergency and follow instructions / procedures
• evacuate clients and staff
• record emergency incidents

B-5-4 Adhere to site-specific procedures for threatening events such as:

• fire / gas leaks
• bomb reports / scares
• violent / abusive / threatening individuals
• terrorist attacks / robberies / invasions

B-5-5 Adhere to site-specific procedures for weather-related events such as:

• floods
• earthquakes
• tornadoes and hurricanes

C-1: Infection Prevention and Control

A Dental Assistant possesses the knowledge, skills, judgments and attitudes to:

C-1-1 Adhere to site-specific infection prevention and control protocols.

C-1-2 Clean and reprocess instruments and equipment.

C-1-3 Disinfect equipment and surfaces.

C-1-4 Monitor and maintain records of the reprocessing of instruments and equipment.

C-1-5 Utilize handwashing techniques.

C-1-6 Utilize personal protective equipment such as:

• gloves
• safety glasses / goggles
• masks
• protective clothing / footwear

C-1-7 Place and remove protective barriers.

C-1-8 Purge and maintain dental water lines.

C-1-9 Respect recommendations for annual, current and appropriate personal immunizations for dental assistants.

C-2: Client Information, Assessment and Records

A Dental Assistant possesses the knowledge, skills, judgments and attitudes to:

C-2-1 Greet, seat, position and relate to the client.

C-2-2 Obtain personal, medical and dental history and consent.

C-2-3 Recognize importance of client’s personal, medical and dental history and understand its relevance to dental treatments.

C-2-4 Recognize, for various types of clients, normal ranges of vital signs such as:

• pulse rate
• blood pressure
• temperature
• respiration rate
• blood oxygen levels

C-2-5 Obtain and record vital signs.

C-2-6 Perform an extra-oral examination.

C-2-7 Perform an oral inspection with the use of examination instruments such as:

• mouth mirror
• explorer
• electronic screening devices

C-2-8 Chart / record client’s existing intra- / extra-oral conditions such as:

• restorations
• missing teeth
• abnormalities
• comments regarding pain, tenderness or other problems

C-2-9 Obtain intra- / extra-oral photographs.

C-2-10 Maintain well-organized, legible, readily accessible and understandable client records that adhere to regulations and general record keeping principles.

C-2-11 Assess, interpret and communicate pertinent client information to the supervising dental health care professional.

C-2-12 Recognize and report signs of suspected physical, sexual or emotional abuse or neglect.

C-2-13 Present and coordinate treatment plan options.

C-3: Chairside Assisting

A Dental Assistant possesses the knowledge, skills, judgments and attitudes to:

C-3-1 Review treatment records to prepare instruments, equipment, materials and operatory for specific dental procedures.

C-3-2 Provide client with treatment information.

C-3-3 Confirm consent has been obtained prior to commencing treatment.

C-3-4 Provide pre-treatment instructions.

C-3-5 Assist with dental treatments / procedures such as:

• preventive
• restorative
• oral and maxillofacial surgical
• endodontic
• periodontal
• prosthodontic
• orthodontic
• temporomandibular joint dysfunction
• forensic
• pediatric and geriatric
• sleep apnea
• neuromodulators
• implants
• oral pathology

C-3-6 Utilize dental instruments, handpieces and equipment such as:

• mouth mirror
• explorer
• cotton pliers
• articulating paper
• slow-speed handpiece
• laboratory instruments
• overhead lights
• client chair
• operator and assistant stools
• amalgamator
• curing light
• oral evacuation system

C-3-7 Maintain visibility and accessibility for operator.

C-3-8 Anticipate operator needs.

C-3-9 Perform oral evacuation.

C-3-10 Perform instrument transfers.

C-3-11 Monitor, report and respond to client’s condition.

C-3-12 Manage and modify care for clients requiring accommodations due to medical, mental or physical conditions such as:

• Patient Transfer Protocol
• modify the operatory to accommodate clients with special needs
• adapt procedures according to physical needs and mobility limitations
• provide information and instructions with consideration of cognitive level and communication ability

C-3-13 Dismiss client at conclusion of appointment.

C-4: Anesthesia and Pain Control

A Dental Assistant possesses the knowledge, skills, judgments and attitudes to:

C-4-1 Apply topical anesthetics.

C-4-2 Assist during the administration of local anesthesia such as:

• prepare and manage local anesthetic setup, including assembling the local anesthetic syringe
• inform client about effects of anesthesia

C-4-3 Assist during the administration of sedation such as:

• recognize the importance of reducing the dental team’s exposure to nitrous oxide
• prepare and check nitrous oxide and oxygen sedation equipment
• select a mask of appropriate size, and place it on the tubing
• have client put on the mask, and adjust the fit
• tighten the tubing once it is comfortable for the client
• inform the client about the effects of sedation

C-4-4 Modify practice during the administration of conscious, general and intravenous sedation.

C-4-5 Assist with observing, documenting and reporting client’s condition during anesthesia and pain control procedures.

C-5: Drugs and Materials

A Dental Assistant possesses the knowledge, skills, judgments and attitudes to:

C-5-1 Reconstitute neuromodulators with water or saline (not with any other drugs).

C-5-2 Convert and calculate components.

C-5-3 Draw up local anesthetic or neuromodulators out of a vial or ampoule into a syringe.

C-5-4 Record and maintain an up-to-date drug log.

C-5-5 Mix and manipulate dental materials.

C-6: Post-Treatment Care

A Dental Assistant possesses the knowledge, skills, judgments and attitudes to:

C-6-1 Provide post-treatment instructions such as:

• explain specific oral health care requirements
• explain potential post-treatment complications
• advise client about drug implications
• advise client of after-hours emergency post-operative treatment options such as dentist on call, hospital emergency room and walk-in clinics

C-6-2 Follow up with client care such as:

• assess severity of symptoms
• communicate with client
• ask pertinent questions relating to such topics as pain management and medications
• advise client to return to dental office for post-operative analysis
• inform clients of available emergency services such as dentists on call and emergency facilities

C-6-3 Assess soft tissue for signs of healing, infection or complications.

C-7: Laboratory

A Dental Assistant possesses the knowledge, skills, judgments and attitudes to:

C-7-1 Create dental study models:

• pour gypsum products
• perform 3D printing

C-7-2 Trim study models.

C-7-3 Mount study models on articulator.

C-7-4 Maintain and perform minor repairs on removable appliances.

C-7-5 Fabricate custom trays such as:

• whitening trays
• fluoride carriers
• impression trays
• sports guards

C-7-6 Coordinate external laboratory services.

C-7-7 Fabricate occlusal rims.

C-7-8 Perform minor denture repairs.

D-1: Radiology and Digital Imaging

A Dental Assistant possesses the knowledge, skills, judgments and attitudes to:

D-1-1 Recognize and understand applications of radiology and digital imaging in dental health care such as:

• radiographs
• impressions
• cone beam computed tomography (CBCT)
• computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD-CAM)

D-1-2 Prepare and manage the client for radiographs / digital imaging.

D-1-3 Select radiographic techniques such as:

• types of radiographs
• x-ray machine settings, such as milliampere (mA), kilovoltage peak (kVp) and exposure
• intra-oral film position
• degrees of angulation
• select film size
• assemble and position equipment and film / sensor for exposure

D-1-4 Expose dental radiographs.

D-1-5 Obtain digital images.

D-1-6 Process and evaluate quality of radiographs / digital images.

D-1-7 Mount and/or label processed radiographs / digital images.

D-1-8 Trace and measure cephalometric radiographs.

D-1-9 Duplicate radiographs.

D-2: Dental Lasers

A Dental Assistant possesses the knowledge, skills, judgments and attitudes to:

D-2-1 Utilize dental lasers for caries detection, tooth whitening and curing dental materials.

D-3: Sleep Apnea

A Dental Assistant possesses the knowledge, skills, judgments and attitudes to:

D-3-1 Prepare and explain sleep apnea equipment and materials.

D-4: Instrument and Equipment Care

A Dental Assistant possesses the knowledge, skills, judgments and attitudes to:

D-4-1 Maintain dental instruments and equipment in accordance with manufacturers’ guidelines such as:

• perform minor repairs
• lubricate equipment
• replace solutions

D-4-2 Perform troubleshooting in accordance with manufacturers’ guidelines.

D-4-3 Identify and arrange for support and service for maintenance or repair / replacement of instruments and/or equipment as required.

D-5: Emerging Technologies

A Dental Assistant possesses the knowledge, skills, judgments and attitudes to:

D-5-1 Recognize developments and trends in technology in general, and those designed for health care / dental applications.

D-5-2 Evaluate new technologies as to their potential benefits and risks to dental practice and personal use.

D-5-3 Consult with employer and other team members, and obtain training prior to testing or implementing new technologies.

D-5-4 Participate in quality assurance and evaluation activities related to implementation of new technologies.

E-1: Intra-Oral Dental Assisting

A Dental Assistant possesses the knowledge, skills, judgments and attitudes to:

E-1-1 Perform selective coronal polishing with a slow-speed handpiece.

E-1-2 Apply pit and fissure sealants and adjust occlusion with a slow-speed handpiece.

E-1-3 Apply anti-cariogenic agents.

E-1-4 Apply desensitizing agents.

E-1-5 Apply disclosing agents, interpret and record results.

E-1-6 Assess and record oral hygiene indices.

E-1-7 Perform caries detection procedure utilizing an electronic caries detection device, and document observations for assessment by the dentist.

E-1-8 Perform periodontal probing and record findings.

E-1-9 Perform coronal whitening using trays and/or direct application.

E-1-10 Insert and adjust mouth guards.

E-1-11 Place and remove periodontal and surgical dressings.

E-1-12 Place and remove isolation material such as:

• dental dams
• cotton rolls
• dry angles

E-1-13 Place and remove matrices and wedges.

E-1-14 Apply treatment liners and bases (without pulpal involvement).

E-1-15 Apply acid etch, antibacterial agents, and primer and bond.

E-1-16 Place intermediate restorative material for temporary restoration of tooth, and remove excess material from occlusion or contour with hand instruments and slow-speed rotary handpiece.

E-1-17 Obtain and evaluate preliminary impressions.

E-1-18 Obtain final impressions for evaluation by the dentist.

E-1-19 Obtain face bow registration.

E-1-20 Obtain bite registrations.

E-1-21 Perform pulp vitality testing.

E-1-22 Select molds and shade of teeth.

E-1-23 Place gingival retraction cord with or without haemostatic agents (no epinephrine) in sulcus.

E-1-24 Remove gingival retraction cord.

E-1-25 Select or fabricate and fit provisional crowns, inlays, onlays and bridges.

E-1-26 Cement provisional crowns, inlays, onlays and bridges, and remove excess temporary cement with hand instruments and slow-speed rotary handpiece.

E-1-27 Remove provisional crowns, inlays, onlays and bridges and cement with hand instruments and slow-speed rotary handpiece.

E-1-28 Remove excess bonding agent or permanent cement with hand instruments.

E-1-29 Perform suture removal.

E-1-30 Polish restorations with slow-speed handpiece using pastes, rubber tips, points and cups.

E-1-31 Place paper points to dry root canals.

E-1-32 Place cotton pellets into endodontic access openings.

E-1-33 Irrigate root canal during endodontic procedures.

E-1-34 Perform a preliminary fit of a partial or complete denture, prior to adjustment by the dentist.

E-1-35 Place and remove soft tissue relines.

E-1-36 Perform a preliminary fit of a periodontal appliance, prior to adjustment by the dentist.

E-2: Orthodontics

A Dental Assistant possesses the knowledge, skills, judgments and attitudes to:

E-2-1 Insert orthodontic appliances.

E-2-2 Insert and remove orthodontic separators.

E-2-3 Prepare teeth for bonding or cementation of bands and bonding of orthodontic brackets and bondable attachments.

E-2-4 Select, fit and cement orthodontic bands with self-curing or light curing cement, and remove excess cement with hand instruments and slow-speed rotary handpiece.

E-2-5 Position and bond orthodontic brackets and bondable attachments with light-cured bonding agent, and remove excess bonding agent with hand instruments and slow-speed rotary handpiece.

E-2-6 Insert, ligate and remove orthodontic archwires using individual or chain elastomeric ligatures, separate and continuous wire ligature ties and self-ligation mechanisms.

E-2-7 Insert and remove orthodontic accessories.

E-2-8 Trim and/or bend distal ends of orthodontic arch wires.

E-2-9 Remove orthodontic bands with hand instruments, and remove cement with hand instruments and slow-speed rotary handpiece.

E-2-10 Remove orthodontic brackets and bondable attachments with hand instruments, and remove bonding agent with hand instruments and slow-speed rotary handpiece.

E-2-11 Apply non-medicinal material to reduce the effect of irritating components.

E-3: Scaling

A Dental Assistant possesses the knowledge, skills, judgments and attitudes to:

E-3-1 Evaluate periodontal scaling instruments for appropriate sharpness.

E-3-2 Perform periodontal scaling instrument sharpening.

E-3-3 Perform periodontal scaling using hand instruments and ultrasonic instruments.

F-1: Nutrition and Oral Health

A Dental Assistant possesses the knowledge, skills, judgments and attitudes to:

F-1-1 Describe how diet and nutrition can affect oral health.

F-1-2 Recognize systemic and localized effects of nutrition on oral health.

F-1-3 Describe current nutritional requirements for various age groups.

F-1-4 Describe oral implications of eating disorders.

F-1-5 Describe the relationship between frequency and quantity of cariogenic foods in the caries process.

F-1-6 Promote nutritional requirements for optimum oral health.

F-2: Addictions and Oral Health

A Dental Assistant possesses the knowledge, skills, judgments and attitudes to:

F-2-1 Recognize addiction influences on dental disease.

F-2-2 Promote and provide literature and resources to assist with treatment of addictions.

F-3: Client Education

A Dental Assistant possesses the knowledge, skills, judgments and attitudes to:

F-3-1 Apply the principles of instruction and learning to individuals and groups.

F-3-2 Explain the relationship between oral health and overall health.

F-3-3 Recognize client-specific oral hygiene needs.

F-3-4 Explain the periodontal disease process and factors affecting its development and progress.

F-3-5 Explain the caries process and factors affecting its development and progress.

F-3-6 Develop oral hygiene goals using client-centered approach.

F-3-7 Select and demonstrate oral self-care products to achieve goals.

F-3-8 Provide client-specific oral hygiene instruction and techniques.

F-3-9 Advise client of appropriate prevention and removal of stains.

F-3-10 Provide instruction for prosthesis and appliance care.

F-3-11 Identify symptoms of oral habits such as:

• tobacco product use
• oral jewelry
• bruxism
• mouth breathing

F-3-12 Advise client on consequences of oral habits.

F-3-13 Promote and provide information to assist with modifying oral habits.

F-3-14 Evaluate outcomes of instruction, providing feedback and making necessary modifications.

F-4: Public Health

A Dental Assistant possesses the knowledge, skills, judgments and attitudes to:

F-4-1 Promote and provide oral health care programs in a community setting or at public health centers.

F-4-2 Deliver key messages on oral health care to target audiences such as:

• when children should first visit a dentist
• benefits of preventive dentistry
• benefits of water fluoridation

F-4-3 Assist with and participate in dental surveys.

F-4-4 Perform observations and record obvious dental caries and urgent oral health problems.

F-4-5 Inform client and/or caregiver of findings that require intervention.

F-4-6 Record and compile survey and screening data.

F-4-7 Understand, apply and utilize elements of public health science such as:

• evidence-based practice
• epidemiology
• population health approaches
• data mapping
• planning models

G-1: Communicating

A Dental Assistant possesses the knowledge, skills, judgments and attitudes to:

G-1-1 Understand how the communication process is used within the dental process and for the provision of effective dental care.

G-1-2 Communicate effectively to establish, maintain and conclude interpersonal relationships.

G-1-3 Understand the importance of self-awareness and feedback to effective communications.

G-1-4 Establish effective relationships employing both verbal and nonverbal techniques.

G-1-5 Identify barriers to effective communication such as:

• age
• special needs
• language
• culture

G-1-6 Recognize the need to learn about, adjust and respond to a variety of socio-cultural influences such as:

• education
• spirituality
• religious beliefs
• culture
• heritage
• gender / transgender
• socio-economic status
• ethnic beliefs
• lifestyle

G-1-7 Recognize current social issues that impact the delivery of dental health to diverse groups and communities.

G-2: Instructing and Mentoring

A Dental Assistant possesses the knowledge, skills, judgments and attitudes to:

G-2-1 Apply basic learning principles and techniques to teach dental assisting practice to students, colleagues and staff.

G-2-2 Maintain knowledge of industry standards and ensure curriculum reflects current competencies as identified in documents such as:

• Competency Profile for Alberta Dental Assistants
• National Dental Assisting Examining Board Domain Description

G-2-3 Recognize the importance of teaching styles and common factors influencing learning, and adjust teaching accordingly.

G-2-4 Modify teaching plans and delivery to meet requirements of clients with special needs.

G-2-5 Select and use learning aids and technologies appropriate to the clients and to the content.

G-2-6 Evaluate the effectiveness of teaching and learning through a variety of methods.

G-2-7 Document the teaching plan, its delivery and outcomes of the teaching and learning process.

G-2-8 Demonstrate enthusiasm for formal instruction, learning and dental assisting to inspire and motivate learners.

G-2-9 Provide preceptorships to students and new dental assistants.

G-3: Collaborating

A Dental Assistant possesses the knowledge, skills, judgments and attitudes to:

G-3-1 Understand the importance of collaboration in providing effective dental care and ensuring efficient operation of the workplace.

G-3-2 Describe and respect the different roles of the dental health care team and the health community.

G-3-3 Listen and be receptive to the ideas, opinions and suggestions of fellow team members.

G-3-4 Promote co-operation and group cohesiveness.

G-3-5 Actively participate in team activities to plan, implement, and evaluate client care.

G-3-6 Provide constructive feedback and recognition to fellow team members.

G-3-7 Engage client, family and others as partners in client-centered care.

G-3-8 Recognize and understand the principles of team dynamics and group processes to create a positive workplace environment.

G-3-9 Practice effective interpersonal communication with team members.

G-3-10 Assist, instruct and mentor other members of the team.

G-4: Conflict Management

A Dental Assistant possesses the knowledge, skills, judgments and attitudes to:

G-4-1 Identify the signs and symptoms of conflict situations.

G-4-2 Recognize potential common sources of conflict.

G-4-3 Manage conflict by using effective communication techniques.

G-4-4 Intervene quickly in urgent situations involving conflict.

G-4-5 Focus on the problem / issue related to the conflict, and not on the individuals or personalities.

G-4-6 Consult with supervisors and other appropriate professionals as required in situations of conflict.

G-5: Third Party Communication

A Dental Assistant possesses the knowledge, skills, judgments and attitudes to:

G-5-1 Be familiar with the legal requirements of authorization, confidentiality and privacy in dealing with third parties.

G-5-2 Maintain third-party transaction records.

G-5-3 Provide accurate and relevant information to third parties when requested and approved by the client.

G-6: Critical Thinking

A Dental Assistant possesses the knowledge, skills, judgments and attitudes to:

G-6-1 Recognize the importance of critical thinking, critical inquiry and evidence-based practice to ethical oral health care services.

G-6-2 Understand how critical thinking and critical inquiry influence decision making and practice judgments such as:

• impacts on the flow of treatments and scheduling appointments
• resource management
• communications

G-6-3 Apply critical thinking through analysis, discernment and reflective reasoning.

H-1: Office Procedures

A Dental Assistant possesses the knowledge, skills, judgments and attitudes to:

H-1-1 Perform basic dental office procedures.

H-1-2 Utilize common business office equipment, systems, software and technologies.

H-1-3 Manage client appointment systems such as:

• respond to inquiries
• manage schedules
• operate computer systems and software

H-1-4 Assist with financial management such as:

• manage billing and payment processes
• accounts receivable / payable records
• payroll systems

H-1-5 Assist with inventory management such as:

• monitor and keep track of inventory
• order and restock supplies
• organize supplies in operatory
• keep controlled substances secure

H-1-6 Assist with the marketing and promotion of the dental practice and services.

H-1-7 Comply with regulations, professional marketing standards, and code of ethics with respect to the marketing of dental practices, services and products.

H-2: Information Systems

A Dental Assistant possesses the knowledge, skills, judgments and attitudes to:

H-2-1 Acquire and process information and data in a timely manner.

H-2-2 Organize information / records for easy retrieval and use.

H-2-3 Utilize computers, digital cameras, mobile phones and Internet technology within the dental environment.

H-2-4 Be knowledgeable of and adhere to office policies and legislation governing health and dental records, e.g. Health Information Act, FOIP, etc.

H-2-5 Manage clients’ personal, medical, financial and dental records.

H-2-6 Follow procedures to protect confidentiality and protect against hazards to the security, integrity, loss or unauthorized use, disclosure, modification or unauthorized access to health / dental information.

H-2-7 Practice “safe computing” to prevent loss, disclosure, modification or unauthorized use or access to confidential information such as:

• client records
• personnel documents
• financial records

H-2-8 Ensure that the office technology / systems are secure and protected from viruses, malware, intrusions and other threats.

H-2-9 Comply with office procedures and protocol to back up, deal with, and restore data that may be corrupted or lost as a result of a computer failures or unauthorized intrusions.

H-3: Human Resources

A Dental Assistant possesses the knowledge, skills, judgments and attitudes to:

H-3-1 Apply the principles of leadership, supervision and motivation.

H-3-2 Explain and discuss specific employer / employee responsibilities and current rules and regulations regarding employment of dental personnel.

H-3-3 Develop office policy and procedures manuals.

H-3-4 Manage employee personnel records.

H-3-5 Hire and evaluate employees.

H-3-6 Plan and conduct employee development activities and training.

H-3-7 Manage and supervise personnel.

H-3-8 Terminate employees in a fair and legal manner.

H-4: Service Quality

A Dental Assistant possesses the knowledge, skills, judgments and attitudes to:

H-4-1 Recognize that clients seeking oral health care services have choices and options, keep informed through research, and have a right to quality service.

H-4-2 Obtain input and feedback from clients as to what they want and their satisfaction and concerns about dental / oral health services and products.

H-4-3 Provide reliable service such as delivering what was agreed upon dependably, accurately and on time.

H-4-4 Demonstrate courtesy, and the ability to convey trust and confidence.

H-4-5 Show empathy, a degree of caring and providing individual attention to clients and their families.

H-4-6 Demonstrate responsiveness, the willingness to help individuals, and provide prompt service.

H-4-7 Endeavor to provide a pleasant and comforting environment through their own appearance, physical facilities and surroundings.

H-4-8 Assist in measuring service performance and client satisfaction.

H-4-9 Take all complaints seriously and address them promptly.

H-4-10 Recognize that service quality requires acceptable performance from every member of the team.

H-4-11 Recognize that the success of a dental practice and therefore continued employment depend on satisfied clients.

H-4-12 Recognize, initiate and adapt to changes to improve dental services and office efficiency including enhancements to products, procedures, equipment and technologies.

I-1: Legislation

A Dental Assistant possesses the knowledge, skills, judgments and attitudes to:

I-1-1 Comply with all governing legislation such as:

• Health Professions Act (HPA),
• Dental Assistants Profession Regulation
• Government Organization Act
• Health Information Act
• privacy legislation

I-1-2 Comply with legislation that has a “duty to report” requirement for threats that may be injurious or dangerous to public health, or situations of suspected abuse or neglect.

I-1-3 Comply with all CADA documents affecting the profession of dental assisting such as:

• Standards of Practice
• Code of Ethics
• Competency Profile for Alberta Dental Assistants
• Bylaws
• Policies
• Position Statements

I-1-4 Be accountable for one’s own dental assisting practice such as:

• duty to self-report to CADA including:
  • blood borne infections
  • criminal charges or guilty plea or verdict
  • under investigation, subject of proceeding or discipline by another professional regulatory body
• duty to report to professional liability insurance provider any incident that may result in a claim

I-2: Governance

A Dental Assistant possesses the knowledge, skills, judgments and attitudes to:

I-2-1 Practice principles and responsibilities involved in self-regulation such as:

• client – providing safe, competent and ethical care
• employer – working within role expectations, policies and procedures
• CADA – maintaining standards and guidelines, code of ethics, standards of practice and continuing competence

I-2-2 Recognize that self-regulation is a privilege that requires members to participate in the activities of CADA such as:

• adhering to the required responsibilities of regulated members
• developing knowledge and leadership skills necessary to ensure success of CADA
• providing timely feedback and input during member consultations

I-2-3 Participate on CADA Council and committees and contribute to:

• management and leadership of CADA
• establish, review and recommend changes to bylaws and policies
• financial management of CADA
• implementation and enforcement of bylaws and policies

I-3: Professional Conduct

A Dental Assistant possesses the knowledge, skills, judgments and attitudes to:

I-3-1 Perform only those duties and restricted activities within assigned authority as outlined in legislation and regulation.

I-3-2 Identify and report any incompetent, illegal or unethical conduct by colleagues or other health care personnel to the appropriate authority.

I-3-3 Seek assistance when unable to perform competently.

I-3-4 Identify when assignment of duties is beyond individual competence or authorized practice and respond in a manner such as:

• consult with team members or supervisor
• collaborate as necessary
• hand off tasks as necessary
• upgrade education and training

I-3-5 Apply concepts of professional autonomy throughout practice such as:

• accountability for one’s own actions and behaviours
• best practices and research
• independence as appropriate
• ethical decision making
• self-managed competence

I-3-6 Maintain confidentiality with clients, colleagues, staff, team and organization such as:

• adhere to policy, procedures, guidelines, standards and legislation
• identify breaches in confidentiality
• manage all client information appropriately (verbal, written, electronic)
• recognize and manage risks

I-3-7 Display professional behaviour both inside and outside the workplace.

I-3-8 Provide dental services in a non-discriminatory and ethical manner.

I-3-9 Recognize and minimize risks that may lead to malpractice.

I-4: Professional Boundaries

A Dental Assistant possesses the knowledge, skills, judgments and attitudes to:

I-4-1 Establish, maintain and manage professional boundaries with:

• client, family and others
• colleagues and co-workers
• students and trainees
• supervisors
• employers
• sales and marketing people
• suppliers and vendors

I-4-2 Recognize and maintain professional boundaries such as:

• beginning, maintaining and ending relationships
• caring for family / friends
• casual, friendship, romantic, sexual
• chastising, coercion, favoritism
• conflict of interest
• giving and receiving gifts
• inappropriate financial or personal benefits
• inappropriate physical contact
• limited self-disclosure
• psychological abuse and/or disruptive behaviours
• social media interactions

I-4-3 Recognize and avoid risks associated with use of social media such as:

• breaching privacy and confidentiality
• compromising public safety
• diluting trust in health care professionals and the health care system
• undermining individual professional reputation and career
• using during work hours

I-5: Fitness to Practice

A Dental Assistant possesses the knowledge, skills, judgments and attitudes to:

I-5-1 Maintain physical, mental and emotional health to ensure safe, competent and ethical practice.

I-5-2 Monitor self for fitness to practice such as:

• addictions
• cognition
• coping mechanisms
• family and environmental issues
• inappropriate behaviours
• mental health
• physical ability
• psychological well-being
• sensory perception
• stress management

I-5-3 Take responsibility and self-manage fitness-to-practice to ensure client and personal safety such as:

• participating in wellness activities
• maintaining positive self-esteem and attitude
• managing work-life balance
• accessing assistance programs / counseling
• self-reporting and withdrawing from providing services, if necessary

I-5-4 Recognize resources available and access appropriate ones for self-improvement and maintenance of personal well-being.

I-6: Leadership

A Dental Assistant possesses the knowledge, skills, judgments and attitudes to:

I-6-1 Promote and support the vision, mission and values of professional dental assisting organizations.

I-6-2 Assess, reflect and recognize own strengths and limitations as a leader to achieve personal and professional growth.

I-6-3 Delegate responsibilities and duties.

I-6-4 Assess, influence and manage change.

I-6-5 Elicit support and commitment from others to achieve a common goal.

I-6-6 Utilize effective decision-making processes.

I-7: Organization and Time Management

A Dental Assistant possesses the knowledge, skills, judgments and attitudes to:

I-7-1 Manage time and organize client care.

I-7-2 Prioritize client needs.

I-7-3 Demonstrate flexibility, creativity and adaptability in meeting the unusual demands of the dental-care setting.

I-7-4 Ensure documentation is completed in a timely manner.

I-7-5 Identify and manage the effects of time management in self and others.

I-7-6 Respect other team members in decisions of personal time management such as:

• arriving and being prepared for work on time
• collaborating in care delivery
• conducting oneself professionally
• limiting personal activities to personal time (social media, texting, personal calls)
• managing breaks effectively
• helping out other team members as needed

I-8: Research

A Dental Assistant possesses the knowledge, skills, judgments and attitudes to:

I-8-1 Remain current with research and trends in the areas of dental assisting, dentistry and oral health care, dental-related technologies, products and services.

I-8-2 Be able to source information and critically read, evaluate and apply research findings and trends.

I-8-3 Be familiar with various research designs, data collection techniques, analysis and reporting.

I-8-4 Participate in research projects and studies that contribute to the knowledge base of dental assisting, dentistry and oral health care.