HESI General Chairside Assisting Practice Exam 2025 – The All-in-One Guide to Achieve Exam Success!

The role of a General Dental Assistant is primarily focused on providing chairside assistance during a variety of dental procedures. This type of dental assistant has a broad range of responsibilities, which include preparing the treatment area, handling instruments, passing tools to the dentist during procedures, and ensuring that the patient is comfortable.

General Dental Assistants are trained to work in multiple specialties but do not specialize in a specific area like orthodontics, surgery, or pediatrics. This versatility allows them to assist in various procedures, from routine cleanings to more complex treatments, making them central to the efficiency of a dental practice.

While other specific types of assistants, such as Orthodontic or Surgical Assistants, focus on particular areas within dental care, their scope is narrower compared to the General Dental Assistant, who serves as an essential support role in the overall dental care process.