The Pros & Cons of Pursuing a Career as a Dental Assistant

IS DENTAL ASSISTANT THE CAREER FOR YOU?

If you are currently looking into hands-on dental assistant programs, you may first want to weigh the pros and cons of this career path. Below we’ve put together an overview of some of the highlights along with a few potential downsides to a career as a dental assistant for you to review prior to making your decision.

HERE ARE 3 PROS OF PURSUING A CAREER AS A DENTAL ASSISTANT

Daily Variety

As a dental assistant, your days will be filled with constant activity from patient intake and equipment maintenance to assisting the dentist, and instructing patients about their ongoing care needs. Dental assistants are dynamic individuals who enjoy variety in their patient and staff interactions and the opportunity to organize the office for maximum efficiency.

Working with People

Dental assistants work with patients, dentists, hygienists, and other professionals within the practice. You will spend your days helping people feel better—and ideal career choice for compassionate, considerate people who want to help others improve their overall health through dental care.

Get to Work

UEI’s Dental Assistant training program covers all of the skills that dentists expect their assistants to know including clinical, radiographic and preventive procedures. Students will complete an externship with a local potential dental employer, learning the standardize techniques and theories used in dental offices.

BECOMING A DENTAL ASSISTANT MIGHT NOT BE FOR EVERYONE

While there are many benefits to a career as a dental assistant, as with any career field, it may not be for everyone. Below are a few “cons” that may help you determine if becoming a dental assistant is right for you.

You Really Need to Be a People Person

Much of being a dental assistant’s responsibilities include interacting with people from all walks of life every day, from the patients to the office staff and dentist(s). You will need to work as an effective member of the team, directly assisting the dentist. You will also occasionally deal with unhappy or unpleasant patients. It will be important for you to develop strong communication skills to work face-to-face with coworkers and patients each day. Being a people person is a big quality to have as a dental assistant, it can also make the job fun!

Some Days Can Be Stressful

While many people thrive in a fast-paced setting, there will inevitably be stressful days when you are running around, working on multiple tasks, and dealing with difficult people. Some days may be more challenging as you try to help patients with bad breath, or who are angry or short with you due to their dental pain.

Can be Tiring

As with most jobs, aspiring dental assistants should consider the environment that they will work in and whether they are suited to it. Dental assistants work indoors, wearing protective clothing (gloves, masks, safety glasses), and around noisy equipment, and tend to be on their feet majority of the day. Being a dental assistant is not a desk job, you might still have paperwork you will need to file for patients, mainly you will work hands-on and closely with other staff and patients.

Graduates of the Dental Assistant Program at UEI will be trained in clinical, radiographic, and preventive dentistry procedures, ensuring that they are ready to hit the ground running in an entry-level position in a dental office, clinic, hospital dental department, or other facility.

*Length varies by program. Financial aid is available for those who qualify. UEI does not promise or guarantee employment to any student or graduate.