Additional information

body or mind	Body
Field	Medical Field
Boss or Team	Team
Communication	Good Communicator
Work With	People
Math & Science	Maths & Science
Study Length	Prepared to Study for Years
Environment	Either Alone or In a Busy Environment

Dental Assistant

Dental assistants work closely with dentists to prepare patients for dental examinations. They may assist dentists in providing care and treatment as well as do general office administration as well.

How to be a Dental Assistant in South Africa

Get the Required Qualifications

To become a dental assistant in South Africa, you will typically need the following qualifications:

Certificate (NSC/NC(V) (Entry into programmes subject to the specific requirements of the educational institution)
Certificate (National Certificate in Dental Assisting)

Demonstrate Competence in the Required Subjects

Different educational institutions may have different admission requirements; however, you will typically be required to demonstrate competency in the following subjects:

Accumulate Years of Relevant Study and Experience

Dental Assistants in South Africa typically study for 1 year, full-time or 2 years, part-time.

Find Relevant Employment Opportunities

Once qualified, you will have to register with the Health Professionals Council of South Africa (HPCSA) in order to work.

There are plenty of employment opportunities for dental assistants in South Africa who often work in the following places:

private practice
public hospitals
the medical division of the Defence Force
medical aid companies
sales representatives for dental supply companies
dental laboratories

Find More Information from Relevant Regulatory Bodies

To find more information about dental technicians, contact The Health Professionals Council of South Africa (HPCSA)