One of the benefits of going to a dental assisting school is that it doesn’t take long to complete the program. Here at the South Florida Dental Assisting School, our program is only 12 weeks long. However, completing the program can still be a challenge, especially if you’re juggling school with work, family life, or both.

We want you to succeed and get the most out of your education. That’s why we’ve put together some helpful tips for excelling in dental assisting school.

Smiling dental assistant holding treatment lamp.

7 Study Tips For Succeeding at Dental Assisting School

Even if you have plenty of time to dedicate to your studies, succeeding at dental assisting school isn’t a sure thing. You still need to put in the work and commit to studying. Having ample time to devote to studying is beneficial, but it alone doesn’t guarantee success in dental assisting school. Having time is an advantage, but success requires more than just having time on your hands. Success in dental assisting school demands consistent effort and a strong commitment to the studying process. This underscores the importance of actively engaging with the material rather than passively going through it. These strategies are intended to help you navigate the coursework more effectively and achieve better results, so let’s dive in!

1. Create a Study Schedule

Creating a study schedule will help you stay organized, keep up with your coursework, and still have enough time for other commitments. Create a weekly or monthly plan that outlines how you’ll use your time to study. Your study schedule should reflect your personal preferences and peak productivity hours, allowing for optimal concentration and absorption of material. Flexibility should also be built in to accommodate unexpected commitments. Ultimately, a thoughtfully crafted study schedule enhances time management skills, cultivates discipline, and fosters a conducive environment for comprehensive learning. Don’t forget to leave some room for breaks and other activities so you don’t burn yourself out.

2. Take Advantage of Office Hours

When attending a dental assisting school, it’s important to take advantage of your professor’s office hours whenever possible. They can offer extra help when needed, provide additional resources, and give you an opportunity to ask questions and get feedback on your work.

3. Get a Study Partner or Join a Study Group

Having someone to study with can be invaluable in dental assisting school. It allows you to keep each other accountable for staying on track, makes learning different concepts more fun, and gives you the benefit of having an extra set of eyes when it comes to reviewing your work. Studying with a partner promotes active learning. Discussions, debates, and brainstorming sessions can encourage critical thinking and analysis, helping both partners grasp concepts and lessons more thoroughly.

4. Take Notes During Lectures and Classes

Taking comprehensive notes during lectures and classes will help you better understand the material, and give you a reference guide for later review. Not only that, but they can also serve as an invaluable resource when preparing for tests or exams, and the following points make good note taking worth the effort as well:

  • Improved Comprehension
  • Enhanced Memory Retention
  • Active Learning
  • Identifies Questions You Have

5. Ask Questions

Don’t be afraid to ask your professors or classmates questions if you don’t understand something. Chances are, other people in the class are wondering the same thing and have yet to speak up. Asking questions will not only help you better understand the material, but it can also help others in the process.

6. Get Plenty of Sleep

Finally, make sure to get plenty of sleep each night. When you’re in dental assisting school, chances are you have a lot on your plate. That being said, it’s important to take care of yourself and give your body the rest it needs to stay healthy and focused. If you can, avoid sacrificing much-needed sleep to get more study time in. Doing so will likely have a negative effect on your learning and productivity. Memorization and critical thinking are best done with a good night’s sleep.

7. Create a Dedicated Study Space

Creating a dedicated study space can also help you stay focused and productive when studying for dental assisting school. Find a spot that’s free from distractions, such as a home office or library. Even setting up a desk in your bedroom can make a world of difference. If possible, make sure your study space is in a quiet environment that allows you to focus.

Benefits of a Career as a Dental Assistant

With a relatively quick training period, dental assistants enjoy job stability due to being part of an in-demand field. They engage in hands-on learning, gain practical experience in dental procedures and patient care, and foster a collaborative environment in various settings. This role offers skill diversification, patient interaction, and potential for advancement opportunities. Dental assistants contribute to patients’ well-being, find satisfaction in their work, and can use this role as a stepping stone to other healthcare careers. Attending dental assisting school is an exciting but challenging endeavor. With the study strategies outlined above, you can be sure that you’ll get the most out of your education and have the best chance at success. To learn more about enrolling in our dental assistant training program, contact us at South Florida Dental Assisting School today.