Students interested in becoming Dental Assistants are often curious about what the work schedule will be like. Dental Assistants in New Jersey typically work full-time hours. However, this can vary based on the employer and the specific job setting. Some Dental Assistants may work part-time, or in certain settings, such as hospitals or clinics with extended hours, might work evening or weekend shifts.
Read on for a detailed breakdown of a Dental Assistant’s typical schedule.
What Hours Do Most Dental Assistants Work?
Most Dental Assistants in New Jersey typically work full-time hours, which means around 40 hours per week. The exact schedule can vary based on the dental office’s setup and patient load.
Here’s a breakdown of common work schedules:
Standard Hours
- Weekday shifts (Mon–Fri) are the most common, usually during standard dental office hours like 8 AM to 5 PM or 9 AM to 6 PM.
Extended/Alternative Schedules
- Some dental offices offer early morning, evening, or even Saturday appointments, so Dental Assistants might work:
- Early shifts (e.g., 7 AM to 3 PM)
- Late shifts (e.g., 11 AM to 7 PM or 12 PM to 8 PM)
- Rotating weekends (especially in larger practices or dental clinics)
Part-time and Flexible Options
- Some Dental Assistants work part-time, especially if they’re balancing school, family, or another job.
- Temp Dental Assistants can set more flexible hours, working in different offices as needed.
What Is A Typical Day As A Dental Assistant?
A typical day as a Dental Assistant is fast-paced and hands-on with a focus on interacting with staff and patients. These professionals are at the right hand of the dentist and a key player in keeping everything running smoothly in the office.
Here’s a general idea of what a typical day might look like:
Morning: Prep Time
- Arrive early to set up exam rooms (clean, disinfect, and stock supplies).
- Review the day’s schedule with the dentist and team.
- Get instruments sterilized and ready.
- Double-check patient files/X-rays or medical history.
During Patient Appointments
- Escort patients to exam rooms and make them comfortable.
- Take X-rays if needed.
- Assist the dentist during procedures.
- Educate patients on oral hygiene or post-procedure care.
- Record treatment notes and update charts.
- Sometimes help with impressions or temporary crowns.
Between Patients
- Clean and disinfect the room.
- Replace instruments and re-sterilize.
- Stay on schedule while prepping for the next appointment.
End of Day
- Final round of sterilization and cleaning.
- Reorder or restock supplies if needed.
- Review the day with the team and prep for the next day.
- If necessary, call patients to confirm upcoming appointments.
Additional Tasks (Depending on the Office)
- Handle front desk duties (scheduling, billing, insurance).
- Help with lab work like pouring molds or polishing appliances.
- Translate for patients if you’re bilingual.
Are Dental Assistant Hours Flexible?
Dental Assistant hours can be flexible, depending on the practice. For more flexibility, you can consider temp positions or negotiating with your employer for schedule adjustments.
- Traditional Offices (Less Flexible): Most work standard office hours (8 AM – 5 PM, Mon-Fri). Weekend shifts may be required.
- Extended Hours (Moderate Flexibility): Some offices offer early mornings, late evenings, or Saturdays. You might get days off during the week.
- Part-Time or Temp (Most Flexible): If you work part-time or per diem, you can have more control over your schedule.
- Specialized Settings (Variable Flexibility): Hospitals or community centers might have less flexibility, but cosmetic or orthodontic offices could offer more predictable hours.
The role of a Dental Assistant is very hands-on and people-oriented, so if you like helping others, working in a team, and staying active, it can be super rewarding. Want to learn more about how you can become a certified Dental Assistant in less than four months? Contact ACI Medical & Dental School today!