One thing we never want to hear out of someone’s mouth is that “I am just a dental assistant.” This is far from the truth. Dental assistants are crucial to keeping a dental office running smoothly. You are more than an assistant; you are valued!

The DALE Foundation’s “Value of Dental Assistants to the Dental Practice” research, which drew insights from nearly 3,000 dentists, dental hygienists, dental office managers, and dental assistants, makes it clear that dental assistants are critical team members and there are many reasons to appreciate the important work that dental assistants do.

Dental Assistants Increase Profitability & Productivity

According to the DALE report, “Dental assistants contribute to the practice’s profitability in many ways, according to dentists and dental office managers. Specifically, 97% reported that dental assistants contribute to patient retention, and 91% said dental assistants make it more likely that the patient will accept the dentist-recommended treatment plan.” 

Furthermore, “Overall, 99% of dentists and dental office managers agreed that dental assistants contribute to the productivity of the dental practice. They said that dental assistants make significant contributions — 97% agreed that effective dental assistants allow the dentist to move to the next patient more quickly, and 98% said that effective dental assistants contribute to team synergy and make all team members more effective.”

Dental Assistants Have Purchasing Power

Dental assistants play a key role in making purchasing decisions for the practice. In fact, 74% of dental assistants said that they recommend products, and 72% are involved in placing orders. Dental assistants’ opinions are valued. Dental assistants are among the ‘doers’ of the dental office. Many duties they are responsible for contribute to the dental practice, both in purchasing and recommendations. In fact, some dental assistants meet with sales representatives directly.

Dental Assistants Have the Right Quality and Traits

Dental assistants are responsible for many areas within the dental practice and often wear a lot of hats. With broad roles like these, it may seem impossible to find a dental assistant who can do it all. However, dentists and dental office managers said that the five most important qualities for dental assistants to have are good patient care skills, being a team player, being willing to learn, taking ownership of work, and showing initiative.

Additionally, dental assistants contribute to the practice’s success in many ways, according to dentists and dental office managers. Specifically, 97% reported that dental assistants contribute to patient retention, and 91% said dental assistants make it more likely that the patient will accept dentist-recommended treatment.

These are just a few of the many ways dental assistants bring value to a dental practice. If any of the above sounds appealing to you, you might be a great fit for a dental assistant career. Here at Sanger Education Dental Assisting School, we offer a short 12-week online and in class course. Don’t wait! Register today!