Education and training both are very important for Dental assistants. It doesn’t matter if you are looking for that first job or trying to take on more responsibilities. But, some things just can’t be taught. So you need to observe the surroundings to develop and polish them overtime. Below are some qualities and soft skills that matter most for a dental assistant.
Top 10 soft skills of a dental assistant:
1. Good listener
Dental assistants are the ones having the most interaction with the patients every day. Lending an ear is essential!
2. Compassion
Patients, especially kids, are often nervous or scared around a dental office, which may not be good for the patients as well as the dentist. The best dental assistants know how to calm and relax them so that the checkup goes smoothly.
3. Being a people person
Do you love meeting new people, and like every day? If YES, dental assisting is for you!
4. Perseverance
Dental assisting is not an easy job at all. If you have patience and determination, you will excel in this field.
5. Strong Work Ethic
You may be working for long hours with few breaks, something not uncommon in this field. The days can be tiring and harsh. But the ones who love their job find it rewarding and energizing!
6. Dedication
There will be some rough and tough days. The dedicated dental assistants dedicated know how to take it in stride.
7. Reliability
The office pretty much depends on you, and if you don’t show up, the office might just fall apart. Just kidding (but not really).
8. Organization
In this job role, you need to be prepared for anything! From scheduling patient visits to assisting during the checkups, maintaining inventory, and much more. You are going to be a one-man army.
9. Anticipation
Do you know mind reading? Dentists will be happy and impressed with how you know what they need before they do!
If you have any questions, call Greatwood Dental Assisting Program at (281) 728-6012.