Group
Occupation
442331 Dental Assistant
Latest release
Consultation draft: Occupation Standard Classification for Australia (OSCA)
Reference period
August 2026
Released
17/08/2026
First release
442331 Dental Assistant
Prepares patients for dental examination, and assists dental practitioners, Hygienists and Therapists in providing care and treatment.
Alternative title
- Dental Nurse
Skill level: 4
Main tasks
- Assists dental practitioners during dental procedures
- Sterilises and prepares dental instruments and equipment
- Takes and develops dental radiographs (X-rays)
- Prepares dental materials such as cements, impression materials and restorative materials
- Provides fluoride therapy by applying remineralising solutions and desensitising agents
- Educates patients about maintaining good oral health, along with oral health care procedures
- Maintains and updates patient records and treatment plans
- Applies infection control procedures in the dental practice
- Orders and maintains dental supplies and equipment