How to Become a Dental Assistant

The job of a dental assistant is a good one. There are plenty of employment opportunities, and the pay package is good too. That is why a lot of people today want to take it up as a profession. But, how to become a dental assistant, that is what we are discussing here.

 

 

How to Become a Dental Assistant – 4 Steps to Help You Become a Dental Assistant

Step #1 – Knowing Your Duties

Even before you join the profession, you should have some idea about what jobs you are expected to perform. This will give you a better understanding, and you can also set your expectations. Here’s a list of jobs you will be required to do,

• Preparation of dental equipment even before the patient arrives.
• Taking records of medical and dental history of the patient.
• Taking teeth impressions for casts.
• You have to use swabs and suction.
• You have to remove stitches.

Step #2 – Finding Out Whether You Are Right for the Job

So, now that you know what your responsibilities will be, you must assess whether you are OK with performing these tasks or not. Some important capabilities required are,

• You must be an active listener.
• You must have good communication skills.
• You should have good time management skills.
• You should be able to offer instructions on oral hygiene to the patients.

Step #3 – Training

If you are asking yourself how to become a dental assistant, you should know that this is probably the most important step. Indeed, training is essential to get that job you want, and with the right training and some experience, you can soon excel and earn a lot of money.

So, you must get yourself enrolled to an accredited institution that is offering training to turn people in dental assistants. Usually, the programs offered are between 9 and 11 months. These programs are offered at dental institutes, career schools, and also at community colleges. To join up, you should have studied biology, health, office practices and chemistry in high school.

Step #4 – Certification

The final step in how to become a dental assistant is certification. Once your training is complete, you need to ask for official certification. For this, you can approach the Dental Assisting National Board. However, before the certification can be issued to you, the board will conduct a 4 hour exam where you have to answer 320 questions. Those who pass this exam become certified dental assistants. Certified professionals earn more than those who are uncertified.

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