As a surgical dental assistant, you assist a surgical dentist. Your responsibilities are to set up equipment, ensure the sterilization of tools, and prepare patients for treatments or procedures. You might operate x-ray equipment or complete lab work for the dentist as well. Other duties of a surgical dental assistant include the use of suction hoses, handing the dentist instruments during the operation, and educating patients about oral hygiene. In some offices, you may also help schedule patient appointments and handle billing. Your assistance is vital in day to day operations as well as the efficiency of surgical procedures.