Determining whether you should pursue a career as a dental assistant often represents a tough choice. As such, there are many questions to consider during the decision-making process, including:
- Are you interested in dentistry?
Genuine interest in dentistry is crucial for those who decide to pursue careers as dental assistants. And ultimately, dental assistants who are engaged in their day-to-day activities will be able to provide dependable support to dentists and patients.
In addition, you will need to enroll in a dental assistant training program before you can become a dental assistant. This program may take several weeks, months or even years to complete, so you’ll want to ensure that you’re learning skills that can help you achieve your career goals as well.
- Are you comfortable working with a variety of patients?
Dental assistants possess the skills and know-how to help dentists diagnose and treat tooth decay, gum disease and other oral health problems. They also offer oral health insights to educate children, teens and adults about proper dental hygiene.
Working with patients is a key requirement for dental assistants, and those who are uncomfortable assisting patients in a dental office may want to consider a different career path.
- Are you an excellent communicator?
Communication plays a vital role in the life of a dental assistant. As a result, you’ll need to become an excellent communicator if you hope to succeed in this profession.
Dental assistants must be able to share important information with both dentists and patients. Meanwhile, remaining empathetic to the needs of others also is paramount, and dental assistants should be unafraid to respond to dentist and patient queries at all times.
