How to Determine If Becoming a Dental Assistant Is a Good Career Choice for You
Posted on: 1 June 2022
There are many reasons you may decide to become a dental assistant. Perhaps you know the importance of having a great smile or maybe you have always been fascinated with the importance of good dental hygiene. If any of these statements sound like you, being a dental assistant is a good career choice for you and your personality.
You do not want to spend years in school
Although you will need to complete training and pass an exam prior to becoming a dental assistant, it can typically be completed in less time than other professions. You can obtain your dental assistant training through a vocational school or community college, which generally involves classroom instruction and in-person clinical work. The length of study will vary from state to state.
You are comfortable with bad breath, body fluids, etc.
While you may be excited about helping someone have a beautiful smile, you will be exposed to patients with poor dental hygiene, which means you need to be comfortable in these situations. You will be working up close and personal with patients and need to be prepared to expect anything. If you are easily grossed out by bad breath or cavities, being a dental assistant is not for you.
You will also need to be comfortable with blood when you are assisting a dentist during tooth extractions and other dental procedures. You will be dealing with dental infections and abscesses, which can involve exposure to body fluids and odors.
You enjoy making people happy
One of the most rewarding things about being a dental assistant is watching people's lives be transformed by improved dental care. From implants to teeth whitening, you get to experience the before and aftereffects of seeing someone's confidence soar when they see the results of dental procedures that restore and improve their smile.
You can multitask well
Dentists are busy professionals who see large numbers of patients each day. If you enjoy the challenge of working in a fast-paced environment, dental assisting will be a good choice for you. You will be working closely with a dentist and will need to be ready to navigate multiple procedures with ease to assist your dentist throughout the workday.
For the right person, being a dental assistant can be a rewarding career that will serve them well throughout their life. Being a dental assistant allows you to play a vital role in a patient's dental health. Taking an honest look at your unique personality can help you determine if it is a good career fit for you.
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