What is the role of the dental anesthesia assistant during sedation?

The role of the dental anesthesia assistant during sedation is primarily to support the dentist in managing the patient's sedation and monitoring vital signs. This involves ensuring that the patient's safety is a top priority throughout the sedation process. The assistant is responsible for observing the patient’s reactions to the sedation, assessing vital signs such as heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen saturation, and being ready to respond to any adverse reactions or complications that may arise during the procedure.

The assistant plays a critical part in maintaining a calm environment and providing reassurance to the patient, which contributes to the overall effectiveness of the sedation. By working closely with the dentist, the assistant helps facilitate a smooth procedure, ensuring that the patient remains stable and comfortable throughout the process.