My work day as : An Oral surgery Assistant

Hey everyone! Summer Dae here again. After sharing my journey into oral surgery assisting and phlebotomy, I want to dive even deeper into the practical side of this career, focusing on the nitty-gritty of daily duties and what truly makes us feel appreciated. My days as an Oral Surgery Assistant are a dynamic mix of patient care and meticulous preparation. From the moment a patient walks in, my role begins with ensuring they feel comfortable and informed. I'm constantly anticipating the next step, ensuring every surgical suite is perfectly prepped and sterilized. When assisting in procedures, whether it's an extraction or a dental implant placement, I’m thinking several steps ahead, having the right dental instruments ready, managing suction, and keeping the patient at ease. I also play a crucial role in diagnostic imaging, utilizing the dental imaging machine to capture clear panoramic dental X-rays that are vital for proper diagnosis and treatment planning. And as a Phlebotomist, my skills are often called upon to set up blood draw necessities for advanced procedures like Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF) therapy, which aids in quicker healing – it's fascinating to see the science in action! While my primary focus is oral surgery, I've seen countless dental procedures, and the principle of a well-prepared setup applies universally, including for a *crown prep*. For any dental assistant, meticulously preparing for a crown prep is absolutely crucial for a smooth procedure. This typically involves laying out local anesthetic, a comprehensive set of various burs for precise tooth reduction, retraction cord, impression materials, temporary crown fabrication supplies, and the final cementation kit. It’s a detailed dance of organization and foresight, ensuring the doctor has everything they need at their fingertips, minimizing chair time and making the experience as comfortable as possible for the patient. Speaking of making a dentist's day easier, that brings me to something many dental assistants often wonder about: *Dental Assistant Appreciation Week ideas*. From my own experience, the most meaningful appreciation isn't always about grand gestures, though those are certainly lovely! It’s about feeling genuinely valued for our expertise, dedication, and hard work. When I advocated for myself and received a significant raise for taking on phlebotomy responsibilities, that felt like true appreciation – a recognition of my expanded skills and worth. Simple acknowledgements, like a doctor praising a perfectly prepared surgery setup or a patient expressing gratitude for easing their anxiety, mean the world. Small, thoughtful acts from the team – a surprise coffee, a shared lunch, or even just a sincere 'thank you' – can significantly boost morale. It’s about recognizing the crucial role we play, often behind the scenes, ensuring everything runs smoothly and patients receive the best care. Let's strive to make every week appreciation week for these amazing professionals! Being a dental assistant, especially in oral surgery, is incredibly rewarding. It’s a career that demands skill, compassion, and a lot of preparation, from mastering the dental surgical implantation kit to comforting a nervous patient. I hope my insights inspire more 'Girl Power!' in this field and help everyone understand the dedication behind the scrubs.