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The main role of the dental assistant during a root canal procedure is to assist the dentist and manage patient comfort. This involves a variety of responsibilities that are crucial for the success of the procedure. The dental assistant helps by preparing the treatment area, organizing instruments, and ensuring that everything the dentist needs is readily available. Additionally, they play a vital role in communicating with the patient, providing reassurance, and addressing any anxieties the patient may have during the procedure.

Managing patient comfort is crucial, especially during a procedure like a root canal, which can be lengthy and may cause discomfort. The assistant may provide necessary support through verbal communication, positioning the patient comfortably, and offering any required sedation or anesthesia as directed by the dentist.

While scheduling follow-up appointments and managing laboratory procedures are important aspects of dental practice, these tasks usually take place before or after the clinical procedure. Performing the procedure is strictly within the dentist's scope of practice, so that option does not align with the assistant's immediate role during a root canal treatment.