Smile! Its dental assistants' recognition week Published Feb. 22, 2008 By Maj. Aida M. Solivan 72nd Dental Squadron TINKER AIR FORCE BASE -- When you visit your dentist, your first and last contact is probably with the dental assistant at the front desk or at chair side with the dentist. Dental assisting continues to diversify and expand. Whether working chair side with the dentist, taking x-rays or managing the business office, dental assistants are vital to the success of the dental practice. Dental Assistants Recognition Week, scheduled for March 2-8, is a week-long tribute to the commitment and dedication dental assistants' exhibit throughout the year. "One Team, One Goal: Improving Oral Health" is the theme for the 31st annual Dental Assistants Recognition Week: time for our dental assistants to receive greater recognition for their own unique and diverse contributions to the dental profession and the dental health care of the public. The 72nd Dental Squadron joins in the celebration this year, and wants to congratulate all our dental assistants, military and civilian, for the outstanding performance displayed on a daily basis taking care of the men and women in uniform serving our country. Our dental assistants are part of the healthcare working force ensuring our service members are 100 percent ready to get the mission done. The next time you visit your dentist, don't forget that dental assistants help make your visit productive, safe and as comfortable as possible. Dental Assistants Recognition Week is sponsored by the American Dental Assistants Association, the American Dental Association the Canadian Dental Assistants Association, and the Canadian Dental Association. For more information, call the 72nd Dental Clinic at 736-2000 or visit the ADA website at www.ada.org.