Becoming a dental assistant is an excellent choice for those looking to make a career change, but there is some research to do before you can start. Not only will you need to know what to do to become a dental assistant, but you want to know how you can succeed and thrive in your career as a dental assistant. Enrolling in a dental assisting program will give you the dental and clinical knowledge you need, but becoming a successful dental assistant requires more than just the basic skills.

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Successful Dental Assistants Have Good Communication Skills

Dental assistants quickly find that effective communication is one of the most important skills to have in their job. Dental assistants will need to communicate with dentists, patients, hygienists, office staff, and each other to keep the workplace running smoothly. Dental assistants are often the intermediary between the dentist and the patient, the dentist and the insurance company, or between different members of the dental team. Successful dental assistants are excellent at active listening, can convey information effectively, have strong reading comprehension, can communicate well in writing, and have excellent phone skills as well as in-person communication skills.

Successful Dental Assistants Work Well with Colleagues

A successful dental assistant needs to be an excellent team player. Dental assistants are the bridge between many different pieces of the dental office experience, and they will need to work well with dentists, hygienists, front desk staff, and each other. Having the ability to work well with all colleagues is essential.

Successful Dental Assistants Have Strong Attention to Detail

Dental assistants maintain patient records, take histories, schedule appointments, and assist the dentist during procedures. In some cases, dental assistants are responsible for taking films or impressions. In these duties, attention to detail is crucial. A simple error can make a big difference in the outcome, and being exact and accurate is extremely important to a dental assistant’s success.

Successful Dental Assistants are Compassionate

Dental assistants are often the most important point of contact with the patient. They are responsible for ensuring that patients are calm and comfortable during their visit to the office. Often patients may be overwhelmed, confused, and scared as they receive dental treatment, and having a compassionate dental assistant helping them to understand the procedures can go a long way toward a patient having a good experience with their dental care.

Successful Dental Assistants are Willing to Learn

Dental assistants are always learning, long after their time as a student is completed. A willingness to learn, grow, and develop new skills is essential for a successful dental assistant. Changes and advancements in technology, procedures, and treatments mean that a dental assistant must be willing to learn and adapt throughout their career.

Becoming a Successful Dental Assistant Begins with Becoming a Student

Becoming a dental student means that you think you have the right personality and character for the healthcare field. As a student in a dental assisting program, you will develop the dental knowledge and clinical skills necessary, as well as honing the “soft skills” – or non-clinical skills – that will make you a more successful dental assistant. Becoming a dental student means merging these two learning experiences.

Dental assisting is one of the fastest growing careers in the country and is expected to continue as the population continues to grow and the dental industry works to keep up with the demand. There are many options for dental assistants, and knowing what can help make you successful can put you on the right path toward a satisfying career. To learn more about our comprehensive Dental Assistant training program, contact South Florida Dental Assisting School today!