10 things you need to know before becoming a dental assistant

Are you thinking about becoming a dental assistant? If so, there are some important things that you need to know. The dental field is growing rapidly, and there are many opportunities for assistants to find employment.
 
However, the job is not always easy. There are certain skills and traits that you will need to succeed in this career. In this article, we will discuss ten of the most important things that you need to know before becoming a dental assistant!
 
The dental field is growing rapidly
 
One of the best things about becoming a dental assistant is that the dental field is growing rapidly. In fact, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for assistants is projected to grow by 18 percent from 2016 to 2026. This means that there are many opportunities for assistants to find employment!
 
You will need strong customer service skills
 
Dental assistants provide customer service to patients who are receiving treatment. As such, you will need strong customer service skills in order to be successful in this career. Patients may be nervous or anxious about their treatment, so it is important to be able to comfort and reassure them.
 
You will need good oral communication skills
 
In addition to strong customer service skills, you will also need good communication skills. This is because you will be working closely with both patients and dentists. You will need to be able to effectively communicate instructions from the dentist to the patient.
 
You will need good manual dexterity
 
Dental assistants must have good manual dexterity in order to perform their duties effectively. This means that you should be able to use your hands quickly and accurately. Many of the tasks that you will be responsible for require a great deal of precision, so it is important that you are able to maintain a steady hand.
 
You must be detail-oriented
 
Another important trait that dental assistants must possess is attention to detail. This is because you will be responsible for many of the smaller tasks in the dental office, such as preparing trays and instruments and sterilizing equipment. It is essential that these jobs are done correctly in order to avoid any potential health hazards.
 
You will need to be able to work under pressure
 
Dental assistants often find themselves working under pressure, especially when there is a lot of work to be done. This can sometimes mean having to work long hours or dealing with last-minute requests from the dentist. It is important that you are able to stay calm and focused under pressure so that you can get the job done efficiently.


You should have good people Skills
 
One of the most important skills that a dental assistant can have is good people skills. This means being able to communicate effectively with patients, as well as other members of the dental team. It is also important to be patient and understanding when dealing with people who may be anxious or scared about their dental appointment.
 
You should be able to work independently
 
Dental assistants often have to work independently, especially if the dentist is busy or out of the office. This means being able to take charge of your own tasks and making sure that they are completed on time. It is also important to be able to stay organized and keep track of what needs to be done.
 
You will need good technical skills
 
In order to do your job properly, you will need good technical skills. This includes knowing how to use all of the dental equipment and being able to properly clean and sterilize it. It is also important to be able to take accurate measurements and have a good understanding of dental anatomy.
 
You should have strong customer service skills
 
As a dental assistant, you will be the first person that most patients see when they arrive for their appointment. This means that you need to have strong customer service skills and be able to make them feel comfortable. You should be friendly and welcoming, and be able to answer any questions they may have.
 
A dynamic and exciting career!
 
Dental assisting is a dynamic and exciting career! You will never know what to expect from one day to the next. This is a great job for those who are always looking for a new challenge. If you are considering a career in dental assisting, then contact us today to learn more!
 
Join one of the best dental assistant training schools in Vegas
 
Here at Northwest Career College , we firmly believe that learning is a process that continues on the job. Our Dental Assistant Training Course gives you all the critical skills and experience you’ll need to find the best dental assisting employment opportunity in Las Vegas. 
 
Our Dental Assistant School offers morning, afternoon, and night classes to accommodate your busy work and family schedule. 
 
Our established seasoned instructors have helped our students achieve a 91% national exam pass rate. Call us at (702) 403-1592 to speak to one of our admissions assistants about your new dental assisting career.
 
Written by:
Cynthia Lofquist, R.D.A.
Dental Assisting Program Chair
Concorde Career Institue 
 
The post 10 things you need to know before becoming a dental assistant appeared first on Northwest Career College .