If you are assisting a left-handed dentist, where do you sit?

When assisting a left-handed dentist, the ideal position for the dental assistant is between the 8 and 10 o’clock position. This positioning allows the assistant to better support the dentist during procedures, as it provides an unobstructed view of the treatment area while maintaining optimal ergonomics for both the dentist and the assistant.

The reason this position works well is that it allows the assistant to pass instruments and suction comfortably without interfering with the dentist’s line of sight and working area. A left-handed dentist is typically positioned in a way that their dominant hand can easily access tools and instruments from the left side of the patient's mouth. Sitting between the 8 and 10 o'clock positions facilitates effective communication, as well as the efficient passing and receiving of instruments, which is crucial during dental procedures.

In other positions, such as the 12 o'clock position or between the 2 and 4 o'clock or 4 and 7 o'clock positions, the assistant may find it challenging to assist effectively. For example, at the 12 o'clock position, the assistant may obstruct the dentist's view. Meanwhile, sitting between 2 and 4 or 4 and 7 o'clock could hinder easy access and complicate instrument transfer, which are vital for