5 career mistakes dental assistants should avoid
Every career path looks different for dental assistants. Some get trained on the job, while others attend a formal dental assisting program. Some stay in the profession for their whole career, but others move into new areas such as treatment plan coordinating or office management. But there are some common pitfalls to watch for — and avoid — along your journey.
Below are five career mistakes dental assistants should avoid, and what you can do instead.
1. Thinking you’re “just” an assistant
Dental assistants may feel like they’re not as important as other members of the dental team — but that couldn’t be further from the truth.
In fact, one of the top myths surrounding dental assisting is that it’s an easy, nonessential role. On the contrary, dental assistants are extremely valuable and make significant contributions each day to the dental office.
“Don’t let anyone tell you that you’re just a dental assistant,” says Hillary, CDA, COA, CPFDA, CDPMA. “We must never forget that we are among the most valuable employees in the office, that we shouldn’t sell ourselves short, and that we should strive to be the best dental assistant we can be.”
“Many dentists tell me that they could not do their jobs without a dental assistant,” adds former DANB and DALE Foundation Executive Director Cindy Durley, M.Ed., MBA. “I encourage them to let their dental assistants know how important they are to the practice!”
2. Not pursuing continuing education
Continuing education (CE) is extremely important for dental assistants to thrive. Earning CE is critical to maintaining and enhancing your skills and knowledge — it can even help you contribute more to the profitability of the practice.
But not all dental assistants actively pursue CE. If this sounds like you, it may be time to start!
You may want to begin by checking out the opportunities available through the DALE Foundation, the official affiliate of DANB. Or, you might consider talking with your employer about whether they can connect you to any other CE and professional development opportunities. You can also see whether your employer will pay for your education. For example, some dentists might help with the cost of DANB exams and certifications or offer a raise as an incentive to earn and maintain certification.
Janice, CDA, COA, CPFDA, CDPMA, has experienced the rewards that continued learning can bring. “You can take your career as far as you want to go, but you have to be willing and have passion about it,” she says. “If you work hard, the hard work will pay off. There are a lot of things you can learn and do.”
3. Hesitating to ask for a raise
Salary is always a hot topic for dental assistants. While some dental assistants say they feel well-compensated in their role, others may feel underpaid. Yet, those who think it may be time for a raise might be hesitant to broach this topic with their employer. Does this sound like you?
If so, it might be a good idea to bring up the topic. There are some tips about how to ask for a pay increase that you might want to follow. Being prepared to ask for a raise for this conversation is important. If you’ve done your research and feel confident, it’s more likely that your employer will respond positively and consider giving you the raise you requested.
And remember: “Higher pay comes with experience and credentials, but you must sell yourself,” says Michelle, CDA. “If you’re not confident, they can tell.”
4. Staying in a role or office that’s not quite right
Job satisfaction is often linked to team dynamics and office culture. Does your practice have a positive and collaborative culture, or does your dental office have drama and interpersonal conflict? Do you usually feel motivated and excited for what the day brings, or are you feeling like getting through the day is a struggle and the role isn’t quite the right fit? If you regularly feel dread about going into work, it may be time to consider pursuing a new dental assistant role or employer.
“Don’t stay somewhere where you are not appreciated,” urges Amy.
5. Not getting involved in the profession
While getting involved in the dental profession isn’t mandatory, it certainly can elevate dental assistants’ careers. Many agree they have benefited professionally and socially from becoming involved in dental organizations such as the American Dental Assistants Association (ADAA) or the American Association of Dental Office Management.
Others have found that pursuing DANB certification has helped to connect them with other motivated dental assistants. Additionally, attending local dental meetings can be a great way to network, as can exploring in-person continuing dental education options.
“Dental assisting is an amazing career,” says Denise, CDA, COA. “You can branch out and meet dental assistants in every other state. I’ve made friendships of a lifetime through DANB and the ADAA. It’s been phenomenal.”
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