Dental assistants are often measured by how efficiently they keep the schedule moving. But their value can extend much further; they can support patient understanding, treatment acceptance, early risk recognition, and team communication.

The question for practice owners is whether their assistants have been trained and empowered to contribute at that level. This article looks at where assistants can have a bigger impact and how practices can expand this role.

—Chief Editor Pamela Maragliano, DMD