Is becoming a dental assistant a career choice that you have thought about quite a bit lately? Working as a dental assistant is no ordinary job, and there are some things you should understand about this career choice. Dental assistants play a crucial role in any dental office or lab. In fact, as a dental assistant, you will be in charge of making sure the office runs smoothly, patients are treated timely, and the workstations stay sterile. And while there may be some challenges, most dental assistants find it to have many rewards.

• Working with Patients

Dental Assistants love working with patients. Working with patients is usually the most rewarding part of the job. They make so many friends over the years and care deeply for them and their families. They work with patients and have watched them grow from small children to high school graduates; then graduate from college and get married; become mothers, fathers, and parents of their children who then become patients. Being a part of their life for so many years is rewarding and makes you feel like a part of their families.

• Making a Difference in Patient’s Lives

Many dental assistants enter the profession because they find joy in helping to transform patients’ lives. No two people in the chair are alike, which keeps the dental assisting role exciting, exciting, and meaningful. Dental assistants play a critical role in ensuring the delivery of oral healthcare. A successful workday in the dental office translates to patients’ pain alleviating, and their smiles made brighter and healthier — partly thanks to their dental assistant educating them and being by their side throughout the entire dental appointment.

• Alleviating Patient’s Fears

Many patients have a great fear of going to the dentist. As a Dental Assistant, you will have to be there for your patients to hold their hands, be their friend, and help make coming to their dental appointment a fun experience. Dental Assistants take pride in knowing they’ve helped transform even the most anxious, nervous, and fearful patients into patients that still may not LIKE going to the dentist… but can get through an appointment simply by trusting that you will be there for them. It’s rewarding to make them feel as comfortable as possible. You see, patients are the reason you have a job, and if you want them to keep coming back, you have to be willing to go the extra mile and make it a great experience. It’s so simple to give a patient a great experience.

As you can see, there are many rewarding aspects of being a dental assistant. While we have only listed 3, there are thousands of other reasons dental assistants find their careers rewarding. Dental Assistants are essential to practice, and you can become one in as few as 12 weeks. Through our Dental Assistant Program in Waco, TX, you will learn about x-rays and preventative procedures. You will complete an externship at a local dental office to gain on-the-job experience. Our comprehensive training program provides you with the training and skills you need to succeed as a dental assistant.