Thinking about the future can be quite overwhelming for many people, especially if you’re not really sure what career path you want to take. But think of it this way. With all the opportunities available to you, you can be anything you want to be. You have the unique opportunity to learn about and fall in love with different kinds of professions. And if you’re keen on discovering the different futures in your midst, perhaps you’d want to add becoming a dental assistant into the mix.
Yes, becoming a dental assistant isn’t really one of those jobs kids blurt out when adults ask them what they want to be in the future. But there are many benefits that come with having a career as a dental assistant. For one, you get to have stable employment in a rewarding industry. And going to dental assistant school can even improve your chances of success.
What Does a Dental Assistant Do?
Before we talk about dental assistant education, let’s first cover the typical duties of a dental assistant. On a regular day on the job, a dental assistant will work alongside dentists and dental hygienists. The duties of a dental assistant typically involve a mix of technical tasks and interactions with the patient.
For example, the dental assistant is often responsible for a lot of the pre-procedure tasks. This can include taking the patient’s medical history, pulse, and blood pressure. They will also be tasked to explain to the patient the details of their procedure and other matters relating to oral care. So, knowledge of dental procedures is often required.
During the procedure, the dental assistant will mainly assist the dentist as they work. This can include holding equipment and passing instruments. Dental assistants can also complete lab tasks and process x-rays, as long as they are under the direction of the dentist or if they have received special training in this area.
What Are the Job Opportunities Available to Dental Assistant Graduates?
Now, some of you may be wondering if it is actually worth it to attend a dental assistant school. After all, you don’t want to be drowning in student debt.
However, the future seems to be bright for dental assistants. Due to the importance of dental care, the industry is quite stable and continues to grow. This can indicate more opportunities for people wanting to pursue a career as a dental assistant. In fact, the employment of dental assistants is projected to grow by seven percent from 2019 to 2029.
Why You Should Attend Dental Assistant Classes
The need to attend a certified dental assistant program actually depends on the state you’re in. Some states require dental assistants to undergo training under an accredited dental assistant program and pass the exam. So, it’s best to check your state’s specific requirements regarding this.
But aside from a state requirement, it can also be quite beneficial to gain the right training. After all, dental assistants have a lot of duties that require the right knowledge and training. And if you graduate from a dental assistant school, you can have better job opportunities waiting for you. Plus, most accredited dental assistant programs only take a year to complete.
Final Thoughts
If you’re unsure what career path to take, you may want to consider a career as a dental assistant. Since it is in a very stable field with lots of projected growth, you can feel more secure about your future. And to really improve your chances of getting a good job, you can set aside a year to take an accredited dental assistant program.
Start your career as a dental assistant at Northwest Suburban College. We offer accredited dental assistant programs in Schaumburg, IL that only take 32 weeks to complete, including eight weeks of hands-on training. Contact an admissions representative now to see if we are the right fit for you!
