Have you ever aspired to become a dental assistant? With the correct training and certification, you are on the right track to becoming one. However, it’s good to bear in mind that a good career as a dental assistant calls for more than just certification. If you are to be successful, you also need the right attributes and personality. So, what will you be doing as a dental assistant?
What Do Dental Assistants Do?
Dental assistants perform various tasks, ranging from recordkeeping, taking X-rays and scheduling appointments. Also, dental assistants are tasked with preparing the patients for procedures. Dental assistants help dentists in performing dental procedures through handling the required tools for the dentist, as well as offering secondary support. As a dental assistant, you may also be responsible for making patient appointments, handling billing and filing other paperwork.
That said, what are the 10 skills that make a good dental assistant?
10 Skills That Make a Good Dental Assistant
- Excellent Communicator
Good dental assistants should always strive to communicate effectively while interacting with their patients and coworkers. Remember, you are the first contact with the patients. Dental assistants work with other dental staff and need to assimilate into the team with excellent communication.
- Honesty
It is important for dental assistants to be genuine when dealing with the patients and their coworkers. Remember, most patients can be nervous when going to the dentist and it’s the role of the dental assistant to make them feel comfortable. A good dental assistant should be honest to secure patient’s trust to keep the patient at ease and informed about the dental procedures and exams.
Ability to Connect with the Dentist’s Needs
When a dentist hires a dental assistant in their office, they are always looking for someone who can easily connect them and the patient. So, if you can anticipate the dentist’s needs and be proactive in responding to them, then you have a secret weapon that can help you land this role.
- Reliability
Dentists are always looking for dental assistants who know how to keep time and complete tasks as assigned. There’s always an added value to the assistants who are able to manage their time, demonstrate strong commitment to the job and ensure tasks are completed as assigned.
- Flexibility and Adaptability
The dental field is always evolving. New products, technologies and tools continue to emerge. So, it’s crucial that dental assistants are able to easily adapt to changes and learn and apply the new skills as quickly as possible.
Cross-Trained
The success of a dental department is always dependent on the cohesiveness of all the players on the team. The most sought-after dental assistants are the ones that portray expertise on different dental aspects. This means that they can jump into any procedure when need arises.
Taking and Processing Quality X-Rays
X-rays are crucial tools in the dental office, as they provide details of the patient’s teeth, bone and tissues, that aren’t easily visible. It’s the role of the dental assistant to take X-rays, so the ability to take and process accurate X-rays is a plus to any potential dental assistant candidate.
Resilience
Strong work ethic and determination goes a long way to making you a great dental assistant. Remember, in the dental assistant career, not every day will be a walk in the park—you will deal with unhappy patients, busy days and many more challenges. If you are resilient, you will be able to give your best even during trying times.
A Desire to Help
If you don’t feel excitement when helping others, then a dental assistant career may not be for you. If you are going to be a successful dental assistant, you should always take pride in doing everything you can to help your patients dentist, or dental hygienist. Throughout the day, you will be a team player, helping and coordinating everything in the office.
Good Listening Skills
If you are an effective communicator, you definitely need to be a great listener too. You will interact with the patients and team members so you need to listen carefully so that you can follow instructions, perform, and give feedback.
Train with Professionals
If you desire to become a dental assistant, the Institute of Medical & Business Careers (IMBC) in Pittsburgh, PA can give you a great opportunity. For more information on IMBC’s Dental Assisting Diploma program, call us today at 855-773-0758. For more information on the program visit https://imbc.edu/program/dental-assisting/.