How to Be an Effective Dental Assistant
Dental assistants work closely with dentists and dental hygienists to provide the best patient care and keep dental offices running smoothly. An effective dental assistant can expect to earn a respectable salary, have job security and be satisfied with their career choice.Things You'll Need
- High school diploma or equivalent
Instructions
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Preparing to be a dental assistant
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1
Attend a Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) accredited dental assistant program.
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2
Become CPR certified through a Dental Assisting National Board approved provider such as Red Cross.
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3
Become a Certified Dental Assistant by taking and passing the CDA exam. If you are already employed, ask your current employer if they are willing to pay for the exam.
At work
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4
Stay informed with the latest news and research in dentistry by reading journals such as: The Dental Assistant, Dental Assisting Digest and Inside Dental Assisting.
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5
Ask questions. Learn all you can from the dentists and dental hygienists you work beside. Periodically ask if there is anything you can do to improve your job performance.
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6
Dress professionally. Be well groomed and do not smoke or chew gum while working.
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7
Be a team player. If there is work to be done, do it cheerfully without worrying about whose job it is.
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Listen to your patients. Make eye contact and let them know you care about what they are saying. Stay organized and on top of your work, so you have more time with your patients.
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9
Practice good infection control. Always wash hands after eating, after using the restroom, before patient contact, and any time you notice visible contaminates on your hands. Wear proper safety gear as needed to avoid exposures and the spread of germs.
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