Patient Care I: Dental Assisting

Flashcards covering key concepts from the chairside dental assisting lecture notes, including four-handed dentistry goals, clock concept for operator positioning, seating and posture, instrument exchange principles, transfer zone requirements, oral high evacuation roles, grasp types, placement techniques, and CDA certification requirements.

What are the goals of four-handed dentistry?

Provide patient comfort and quality care; reduce chair time; minimize stress and fatigue during complicated dental procedures.

What concept describes operator and assistant work areas using a clock face?

The clock concept; the operatory is viewed from above and compared to a clock face.

What is the operator positioning for a right-handed operator?

8-12 o'clock.

What is the operator positioning for a left-handed operator?

12-4 o'clock.

How much higher should the dental assistant's (DA) stool be than the operator?

4-6 inches.

Where should the DA's hips be in relation to the patient?

At the patient’s shoulders.

Where should the assistant's feet rest?

On a ring so thighs are parallel.

Where should the DA's stool arm be positioned?

At the level of the abdomen, with the cabinet top over the thighs.

What is the 'Team Effort' concept in instrument exchange?

Dentist contributes by standardizing procedure and working systematically; the assistant contributes by anticipating.

What is the 'Transfer Zone' in instrument exchange?

The designated area where instruments are transferred between dentist and assistant.

What are the Basic Principles of Instrument Exchange?

Firm, deliberate movements with minimum motion involving only the fingers, wrist, and elbow.

What is meant by 'Instrument Transfer'?

The process of passing instruments between the dentist and assistant during a procedure.

How does the dentist initiate instrument exchange?

By moving the instrument slightly away from the patient’s mouth.

Which tool is picked up to dry the tooth during instrument exchange?

The air/water syringe.

When should the mirror and explorer be used?

At the beginning of each procedure.

What are the primary functions of oral high evacuation?

Keep the back of the mouth free from saliva, water and debris; retract the tongue and cheek away from the field; reduce bacterial aerosol caused by the handpiece.

What is one primary function of oral high evacuation relating to the mouth area?

Keep the back of the mouth free from saliva, water and debris.

Which tissues are retracted by oral high evacuation to keep the field clear?

The tongue and cheek.

What is the third function of oral high evacuation related to aerosols?

Reduce bacterial aerosol caused by the handpiece.

What hand should the assistant use when assisting a right-handed operator?

Right hand.

What are two common grasps used by the dental assistant?

Pen grasp and Palm-Thumb grasp.