The vast healthcare industry offers numerous career options for those interested in making a difference in people’s lives. Two popular choices for those pursuing a career in healthcare are dental assisting and medical assisting.
While both positions are essential in ensuring the smooth functioning of healthcare facilities, they each have distinct roles, responsibilities, and requirements. In this article, we’ll talk about the differences between dental and medical assistants and explore the factors you should consider when deciding which career path to follow.
Job Duties
Dental assistants work under the supervision of dentists and perform a variety of tasks to help the dentist with patient care. Some day-to-day work includes:
- Preparing the treatment room, instruments, and materials for dental procedures.
- Assisting dentists during dental procedures by handing them instruments, suctioning, and keeping the patient’s mouth dry and clean.
- Taking dental impressions and X-rays.
- Providing oral care instructions to patients and educating them about proper oral hygiene.
- Sterilizing dental instruments and equipment.
- Managing dental records, patient scheduling, and billing.
On the other hand, medical assistants work in various healthcare settings such as hospitals, clinics, and physician offices. They perform both clinical and administrative tasks. Typical responsibilities include:
- Taking patient medical histories and recording vital signs.
- Preparing patients for examinations and assisting physicians during these exams.
- Drawing blood, administering injections, and performing basic laboratory tests.
- Preparing and administering medications under the supervision of a healthcare provider.
- Managing medical records, scheduling appointments, and handling insurance and billing matters.
- Educating patients about medications, medical procedures, and general health.
Education and Training
A dental assistant needs to complete a certified dental assistant program, which can usually be completed within one year. These programs are offered at community colleges, vocational schools, or dental schools and typically result in a certificate or diploma.
Some states also require dental assistants to pass a certification exam, such as the Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) exam, administered by the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB).
To become a medical assistant, you also need to complete a certified medical assistant program that typically takes one to two years. You can take these programs at community colleges, vocational schools, and technical schools and graduate with a certificate, diploma, or associate’s degree.
While certification is not always required, obtaining a credential such as a Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) or Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) can enhance job prospects and may be preferred by some employers.
Work Environment
Dental assistants typically work in dental offices, which are clean and well-lit. They may work full-time or part-time and may have flexible schedules. Dental offices generally are closed on weekends and holidays so that Dental Assistants may have a predictable work schedule.
On the other hand, medical assistants work in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, and physician offices. Depending on the healthcare facility’s operating hours, they may work full-time or part-time and may have to work nights, weekends, and holidays. If you choose this path, you may also have to work in high-stress environments, such as emergency rooms or surgery centers.
Salary and Job Outlook
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for dental assistants was $40,080 in May 2020. The job outlook for dental assistants is expected to grow by 7% from 2019 to 2029, which is faster than the average for all occupations.
In contrast, the median annual salary for medical assistants was $35,850 in May 2020, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The job outlook for medical assistants is expected to grow by 19% from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations.
Deciding Which Career Is The One for You
Choosing a career as a dental or medical assistant can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience. Both professions offer job stability, competitive salaries, and growth opportunities.
However, it is crucial to consider your interests, skills, and long-term goals when deciding which career path to pursue. If you enjoy working in a dental environment and prefer a predictable work schedule, a career as a dental assistant may be the right choice for you.
But if you enjoy working in a fast-paced healthcare environment and want to work in various settings, a medical assistant degree may be the one for you. Ultimately, the decision is yours, and it is important to select a job that aligns with your passions and goals.
Want to jumpstart your career in the healthcare industry? Northwest Suburban College is a health sciences college near Schaumburg, IL. We provide the hands-on training, clinical experience, and industry support to pursue a rewarding career in healthcare without spending years in school. Call today for info about our dental assistant and medical assistant programs.
