A dental assistant is an important member of a dentist’s team. They are often the first person that patients see when they walk into the office, and they play a key role in ensuring that everything runs smoothly during appointments.
If you want to become a dental assistant, there are several qualities you need to possess so that the dental practice will be happy to have you as an employee.
What Do Dental Assistants Do?
Dental assistants perform a variety of tasks within the office. For example, they may assist with scheduling appointments and updating records.
Dental assistants also perform tasks that help keep a dental practice running smoothly, including preparing examination rooms and equipment for patients and sterilizing tools and instruments used in procedures such as fillings or crowns.
As important members of the dental team, dental assistants exist to improve a clinic’s quality and efficiency by performing administrative tasks in the front office as well as clinical duties in examination rooms.
What Makes a Good Dental Assistant?
If you want to get hired as a dental assistant, it’s essential to have specific skills and qualities. Here are some of the most important attributes you’ll need to succeed in the field:
1. Trustworthy
A good dental assistant is someone who can be trusted to handle a variety of tasks, both technical and administrative. They should be able to work independently as well as within a team.
2. Good With Patients
Good dental assistants are adept at communicating with patients and staff. They must put people at ease in stressful situations, explain procedures clearly and concisely, and listen carefully to patients’ concerns or questions without losing patience.
3. Has a High Level of Attention to Detail
Dental assistants must have a high level of attention to detail because they’re responsible for keeping track of patients’ medical histories, appointment times, and procedures. They must also ensure all necessary tools are available before beginning each visit.
4. Values Good Hygiene
A dental assistant is the first person you will meet when arriving at the clinic. Every dentist’s office is different, but many dental assistants wear clean scrubs. Good hygiene is extremely important when there are closed corridors with patients and dentists.
5. Computer Literate
In addition to being able to type, a dental assistant needs basic knowledge of how computers work. They have to use Excel spreadsheets to track patients’ histories and appointments, and they may be required to input data into the practice’s electronic medical record.
6. Passionate in Their Profession
Dental assistants are responsible for the quality of a patient’s experience, which means they have to be passionate about their jobs. They should love helping people feel comfortable in a dental office setting and enjoy working with dentists and other staff members.
Conclusion
Dental assistants play a role in the dental team. They help dentists provide patients with quality care, and they need to have specific skills and abilities. It’s also essential for them to be passionate about their jobs and enjoy working with people in a medical setting.
Hey, future dental assistant! Enroll in a dental assistant course at Northwest Suburban College and get equipped with the knowledge and skills you need to thrive in this in-demand career.
