What Skills Do Dental Assistants Need?
Dental assistants serve as vital members of the dental team, and a successful one must possess certain technical and interpersonal skills.
Here are six important traits every dental assistant needs to be successful.
Dental assistants perform many duties, including preparing patient files, scheduling appointments, and assisting the dentist with instruments during procedures. Because of their many duties, it is crucial that assistants are well organized. From paperwork to patient scheduling, there are many ways organizational abilities will help a dental assistant be successful, including:
- Having the correct tools in place for dentists to use during procedures
- Keeping patient stations clean
- Maintaining accurate patient records
- Utilizing time-management skills to get patients in and out of the office in a timely manner
Organizational skills play a crucial role in helping the dental office run as smoothly as possible.
Dental technicians are on the front lines interacting with patients. Many people are actually quite nervous about going to the dentist, so a calm and reassuring demeanor is key. Interpersonal skills start with good communication skills. A great dental assistant is one who will listen to the patient’s needs. They must also be able to communicate clearly with the dentist and the patient. Moreover, they need to be able to work well with all the people in the dental office, including staff, patients, and other dental professionals.
A Close Attention to Detail
Attention to detail is key when ensuring patient comfort and safety at the dental office. Dental assistants must follow specific rules and protocol, such as:
- Infection control procedures
- Sterilization and preparation of instruments
- Taking and processing X-rays
- Keeping patient dental records
Close attention to detail will contribute to the overall safety and well-being of patients.
A dental assistant works in a tight space on a small part of the body using precise instruments. In order to be effective, dexterity skills are imperative. They must have good hand-eye coordination and control over the small muscles in their hands and fingers. If you are still developing these abilities, do not worry! Dexterity becomes more refined with practice.
Everything a dental assistant does reflects the dental practice. Maintaining a high level of professionalism is of utmost importance. Some key components of professionalism include:
- Professional dress and speech
- Taking your work seriously
- Having a good attitude
A Desire to Help
Above all else, a great dental assistant needs to have an innate desire to help. Passion and pride in their work translates into effective communication and professional skills. If an assistant truly wants to help the patients they are serving, they can have a satisfying and successful career as a dental assistant.
Ready to Learn? Contact Dental Fundamentals School of Dental Assisting
If you think you have the necessary skills and drive to become a dental assistant, Dental Fundamentals School of Dental Assisting will help you enter your career with confidence. Our hands-on program will provide you with the experience necessary to thrive in the industry.
Our campus is located in Salt Lake City, Utah. Schedule a tour today.