4 relatable challenges all new dental assistants experience
If you’ve ever started a new dental assistant job, you likely remember the feelings that come with showing up on your first day — excitement, anticipation, motivation, and most likely nervousness. Even if you’ve been in the profession for a while, beginning a role at a new office can be intimidating.
Kayla, an orthodontic assistant, shares, “I used to second-guess myself and my skills a lot early in my career. With time and better knowledge, second-guessing myself is now nonexistent.”
Every dental assistant starts from day one. You’re not the only one to have handed the dentist the wrong instrument or gotten frazzled helping a patient. Below are four common challenges new dental assistants may experience.
Feeling overwhelmed by all there is to know
For many dental assistants, the first few days or even months in a new role can come with a big learning curve. While this time is often a great opportunity to learn and grow your skills, it can also be stressful. You may feel like you’ll never get the hang of it or be able to keep up with the rest of your team.
In the early days of a job, you might be apprehensive about asking questions or admitting you don’t know how to do something. It’s important to give yourself grace in these moments and remind yourself that you’re adjusting to a whole new environment.
Carmen, who holds Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) certification, says, “Early in my career, I was hesitant to ask for guidance when I was unsure. Now, I recognize that clear communication and asking questions are important for patient safety and effective treatment.”
Saying the wrong thing
Part of being a dental assistant involves talking with patients — a lot. But those who are new to the profession may find it takes practice to be able to have good conversations with patients.
“I greet patients differently now compared to the start of my career. This is mainly because I developed a rapport with patients that allows me to engage in more meaningful communication,” says Heriberto, a dental assistant.
If you happen to misspeak when conversing with a coworker or patient, remember that no one is perfect and we all make mistakes. In the case of treatment discussions, it’s important to correct any misinformation so patients can have a clear understanding of their treatment plans and the care they will receive.
Not getting it right on the first try
New dental assistants may not do things right the first time. Sometimes, simple mistakes can happen even when you’re trying to put your best foot forward. Often, it can take a couple tries to get the hang of a new skill or experience.
“Early in my career, I was scared or nervous to take on a new task or do something I hadn’t done in a while. Now, I dive in headfirst and enjoy completing new tasks that will help me grow in my job,” says Caitlin, an expanded duty dental assistant.
If you catch yourself feeling frustrated when learning a new skill, lean on your team for support and ask a colleague for tips. Doing so can show that you’re committed to executing tasks properly and have a strong willingness to learn.
“Share the stress! We are a team!” advises Eryka, CDA. “I used to try and take care of everything, which can oftentimes lead to burnout. Over the years, I’ve learned to share the responsibility so it’s not overwhelming.”
Embarrassing yourself in front of a patient
Arguably, every healthcare professional has that one embarrassing moment that keeps them up at night. Especially in the early stages of a new job, it’s easy for nerves to kick in and cause some awkward moments.
Ashley, a dental assistant, once tripped over the HVE vacuum hose.
“I fell on to the patient, who stopped my fall,” she remembers. “We laughed. I was mortified, but it couldn’t have happened to an easier-going patient. Thank goodness!”
Sometimes, it takes an uncomfortable or cringeworthy instance to learn an important lesson.
Monica, a dental assistant, dropped a full impression tray on her first day of her externship — oops!
“There have been many other moments like this one, but as you go on, you learn to handle mistakes better and not stress about it so much. The first days are always rough,” Monica explains.