Why no two days are the same as a dental assistant
Dental assistants are expert multitaskers, managing an assortment of responsibilities that contribute to a practice’s success. On top of their chairside work, dental assistants help manage patient records, lead infection control processes, take x-rays, and more. This wide range of daily tasks, combined with the fast-paced tempo of the role, requires an expanded skillset and keen awareness of daily schedules.
“Dental assistants usually wear many hats,” says Melanie. “They provide patient care, take care of sterilization, schedule appointments, verify insurance, clean the office, and do the inventory and stocking. They pretty much do everything aside from diagnose!”
Many dental assistants enjoy the versatility in their role because they are always doing something new.
“You’re never stuck doing the same thing every day. It’s like a new adventure every morning,” shares Cassandra.
These are some aspects dental assistants enjoy most within the profession.
Variety in clinical cases
A day’s schedule can bring in an assortment of appointments. Some patients may be coming in for their routine cleanings and check-ups, while others have more specialized cases that require a higher level of care. No matter the reason for clinical attention, dental assistants dedicate their time to every individual’s needs to ensure all patients get the care they deserve.
“I love being able to assist with any and all procedures, and make patients feel comfortable and secure in our office,” says Vanessa.
Each case requires a different setup, set of instruments, and equipment — all of which dental assistants are in charge of preparing. This level of organization is crucial to a successful patient visit. Knowing what each exam room needs based on the type of appointment is a key function of a dental assistant’s job, meaning they are constantly switching gears from patient to patient.
Personalized patient communication
From greeting patients and getting them settled in an exam room to answering questions about a procedure, dental assistants regularly interact with patients. Their communication and education are instrumental in patients feeling comfortable during their visit. When patients are well-informed of each step of their care plan, they feel more confident going into and accepting treatment.
“Patients look to us for comfort, compassion, and guidance. We see the patients before the dentist, and during and after the procedure. It is our job to make the patients feel comfortable and that they are being heard,” says Lisa.
Every patient is unique, so dental assistants must continuously change their approach to communicating with each one. For instance, an anxious patient who is getting their first filling may need more clarification on how restorative procedures work than a patient who has received this type of care before. Patients also have varied treatment goals, so dental assistants work with each one to have a clear understanding of what they want to get out of their appointment.
New technologies and skills
There are always new things to learn in dental assisting. From updated radiography protocols to new industry standards, dentistry is ever evolving. Dental assistants are dedicated to staying on top of new developments, technology, and techniques in the profession by pursuing continuing education opportunities and earning certifications, such as DANB’s Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) certification. This knowledge leads to dental assistants feeling more confident in their roles because they know patients are receiving the highest level of care.
“Dental assistants are becoming more proficient in their skills and education, and changing the landscape of being a dental assistant. The certifications and expanded duties offered are creating more autonomy for the dental assistant to offer more access to care for patients in a safe, strategic manner,” Mary explains.
Multitasking daily
Dental assistants are always on their feet, moving from one area of the office to another throughout the day. On the clinical side of a practice, they help with patient care by providing patient education and chairside assistance to the dentist. They also lead infection control processes to keep all tools and equipment properly sterilized for use. Amidst these responsibilities, dental assistants also lean into the administrative side of the office by tracking schedules, coordinating billing information, and managing patient records.
“Without us, the office would not run smoothly,” says Crystal. “We are able to do many tasks, office work, and assist. We are not just assistants — we are what keeps the office going.”