As a dental assistant, you will be given a number of responsibilities at the dental clinic or hospital. Most of the time, you will be required to serve patients alongside the dentist or dental surgeon and ensure smooth running of the hospital or clinic. In case you are considering a career as a dental assistant, below are a few things you should expect.
Obtain job-ready skills
Dental assistant training allows students to obtain valuable skills for the demanding job market. This includes areas like radiography dental care and infection control which are very key in any dental practice or hospital. Since dental assistants are expected to execute a wide range of tasks, these skills will come in handy when they get to the job market. Dental assistants are required to perform numerous activities including prepping patients for dental procedures, sterilizing instruments and developing or taking x-rays. You are very unlikely to get bored on the job since you’ll be given so many responsibilities.
Interact with patients
As a dental assistant, expect to interact a lot with patients. You are likely to be the first contact when patients come to the dental clinic or hospital even before they meet the dentist. Not only is this an opportunity for you to interact with people from all walks of life but also get experience connecting with people that help build your confidence and professional values.
Numerous job opportunities await you
When you pursue a career in dental assistant training, expect to have lots of promising career opportunities. The salaries for dental assistants are also very attractive if you compare to other professions. In fact, this is one of the areas where unemployment is very unlikely. Expect to excel in your career as a dental assistant by taking advantage of the job opportunities out there.
Enjoy flexible work hours
One of the joys of being a dental assistant is that you can enjoy the flexibility that comes with the job. You have lots of options when looking for a job that fulfills your personal or career goals. You can find a nine to five dental assistant job or go for one that offers more flexible working hours. In fact, there are some dental assistants who only work part-time. It depends on the job structure.
If you choose to work in a typical dental clinic, expect to be there during the regular office hours. However, if you work at a clinic or hospital that is open 24/7 then you can choose different working hours depending on what you prefer. Dental assistant training is one of those careers that give you the flexibility of working part-time or full-time.