How to get hired as a dental assistant

Are you looking for a new dental assistant job? Whether you’re just entering the profession or have years of experience under your belt, it can be tricky to know exactly what employers want to see. While every hiring manager is different, there are some best practices to consider when crafting your application.

We gathered some advice from office managers to learn more about what they are looking for in a candidate so you can take your application to the next level — here’s what they had to say.

Create a strong resume

A resume is your first opportunity to impress a hiring manager, so it’s important to take a strategic approach when crafting one. The best resumes are concise and easy to read. However, it’s still crucial to include details about your work experience. For instance, instead of stating you excel at organization, talk about how you helped your previous office manage patient records or keep up on inventory to ensure the practice was always stocked with the necessary supplies.

“Applicants should highlight people skills, volunteering, and community involvement,” says Denise, CDA, RDA, EFDA, a front office employee for over 20 years. “Education is important too, but how you relate and treat people speaks louder to me!”

Most resumes start with a strong summary, followed by an overview of the most relevant skills, experiences, and certifications. The job experience section of your resume should include only your most recent employment history where you learned skills or knowledge that could be used in the new position. This gives the hiring manager a better idea of your background and what you can bring to the role.

Earn certification

Certifications elevate your application because they demonstrate increased knowledge, dedication to the profession, and a commitment to continuing professional education. DANB’s Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) certification provides dental assistants with a higher level of confidence, which comes in handy when adapting to a new work environment. Additionally, CDA certification is recognized or required in many states to perform dental radiographic procedures or expanded functions. Earning this certification can make you more qualified to perform an extended list of duties and stand out among other applicants.

Debbie, a director of operations with over 33 years of experience in the dental field and dental management, shares, “Holding Certified Dental Assistant certification is essential. We appreciate assistants who have additional certifications, as it shows a commitment to expanding their skillset. We look for candidates eager to continue their education and professional development.”

According to DANB’s Salary and Satisfaction report, CDAs are highly likely to be leaders in the office and have access to more career opportunities. CDAs typically require less training and experience a smoother transition into a new role due to the knowledge they demonstrate in infection control, radiation health and safety, and chairside procedures.

Know your state regulations

Understanding your state’s allowable and prohibited duties is a key aspect of working as a dental assistant. These may come up during the interview process, especially if you’re participating in a working interview. Knowing what’s within your scope of practice shows the hiring manager you’re responsible and take initiative to know what you can and cannot legally do.

For example, if you’re an Expanded Functions Dental Assistant (EFDA), you should be aware of what EFDAs can do in your state. During your interview, you can discuss your experience performing these duties or how taking on additional responsibilities made an impact on your coworkers within the office.

Debbie notes, “Our entire team is deeply committed to our work, and we seek candidates who share that enthusiasm. Showing that you love what you do is just as important as your technical qualifications.”

Do your research