With people feeling more inspired and excited to make a big career move, many consider heading into the dental industry and enrolling in a dental assistant program. Whether you’re passionate about dentistry or you want to help someone improve their life, starting your career in the field of dentistry is truly fulfilling in more ways than one.
However, you can’t just up and squeeze your way into the field of dentistry. Obviously, there are many things you need to consider, especially if you’re thinking of becoming a dental assistant. Besides getting dental assistant certification, there are other things you should know that could help elevate your career in the industry.
Three Things You Should Know About Being a Dental Assistant
When it comes to making a big career switch, it pays to be aware of the need-to-knows in the industry. With that, here are some things you should note when it comes to becoming a dental assistant.
- Protocols for Patient Safety: As a dental assistant, you need to be educated on the process and common guidelines and protocols in the clinic. This is because one of your responsibilities is to ensure that your patients and staff are safe at all times. That’s why you must further your education and hone the right skills that will equip you when working in a dentist’s office. Besides that, having a dental assistant certificate can also help you land a favorable job in the field.
- Holding Various Responsibilities: As mentioned previously, dental assistants need to wear many hats every day. This means that you should be fantastic in multitasking, and you’re able to take on multiple responsibilities. So besides helping a dentist during a procedure, you’re also tasked to set up treatment rooms, oversee inventory, clean up and sanitize, and many more. Especially now that we’re operating with COVID-19 protocols, it’s extra important to know this as well.
- Always Learning New Things: Because you’re meant to wear a variety of hats as a dental assistant, you’d be surprised to know that besides getting a dental assistant certificate, you’re also meant to further your knowledge, especially when dental developments and advancements happen constantly.
Why Should I Get a Dental Assistant Program?
- Dental assistant programs are pretty fast-paced, and because of this, you’re able to earn your dental assistant certificate much sooner.
- Dental assistant programs are generally hands-on, allowing you to experience what it’s like to work in a dental practice right away, even before you graduate from the program.
- Being a dental assistant is a great way to support yourself and your family. You’d be happy to know that dental assistants can earn up to $40,000 a year, depending on where you’re based.
The Bottom Line: Enroll in a Reputable Dental Assistant Program and Make a Smart Career Shift to Dentistry
If you’re thinking of changing it up and looking for better career opportunities, it’s worth dipping your toes in the dental industry—whether your passion is dentistry or not. All you need to do is enroll in a dental assistant program and obtain your dental assistant certificate, and you’re good to go!
How Can We Help You?
When it comes to furthering your career and education, it only makes sense that you enroll in a school that will help you navigate your chosen career path and provide you with all the knowledge you need.
Northwestern Suburban College offers healthcare career training and is a health sciences college situated near Schaumburg, IL. If you’re interested to learn more about the programs, give us a call today, and we can help you get your dental assistant certificate!
