5 Reasons Continuing Education for Dental Assistants is Important

June 30, 2023

Your career is not over once your dental assisting training program ends and you take on your job — no, you can increase your skill set even more and continue to grow. While there are many career paths in front of you, continuing education as a dental assistant is something that will definitely help! In this blog, we will share why it is important to continue your education as a dental assistant.

Why Continuing Education for Dental Assistants Is Important

If you’re on the fence about continuing your education as a dental assistant, here are some reasons why you should consider it:

  1. Keeping Up With the Dental Field
    When you pursue continuing education after becoming a dental assistant, it will help you keep up with all the updates in the dental field. This way, patients also benefit as you implement the developments in the dentistry world. Moreover, by using the latest cutting-edge technology, you can reduce patient discomfort. Learning new skills helps you stay in touch with what you learn and grow as a person. And, who knows, you might inspire someone around you!
  2. You Become More Aware of Your Value
    You can increase your sense of value by continuing your education after becoming a dental assistant. It helps you see there is so much value in what you do as well as how much you can contribute and accomplish. Dental assistants play an important role and deserve all the recognition and credit, which is exactly what learning more helps with. When you learn more, you will become more confident in handling more responsibility. This produces a positive effect on you and your workplace. After all, knowledge is power, right?
  3. Builds & Increases Your Network
    You can increase your professional network thanks to the continuing education for dental assistants. By making strong connections with the professionals in your industry as well as the area, you can open doors for more opportunities and success.A chance meeting is a wonderful way of stumbling upon an opportunity. And what better to do that than by meeting people who might lead you to a new career path and broaden your horizon?
  4. Opportunity for Hands-On Training
    If you study online, you might learn a lot in a real-life environment. Furthermore, you can add all sorts of certificates and boost your education portfolio! Studying allows you to practice the skills you are definitely going to need. Continuing education for dental assistants helps you build confidence as you receive feedback from the one teaching you. In the end, you are enriching your knowledge and building strong skills!
  5. Learn More About Teamwork
    Team-building skills are important for a successful career, and continuing education will teach you just that. You can share new ideas and opinions with others, which helps increase motivation. This helps improve patient care as well!Many courses focus on the benefits of team-building, which also highlights learning how trusting those you work with is helpful.

Takeaway

Continuing education is important for dental assistants to increase their sense of value and skills and keep them motivated! You can do all that once you successfully become a dental assistant at Greatwood Dental Assisting Program! Dial (281) 728-6012 for more information, or meet us at 19875 SW Freeway, Suite 120A, Sugar Land, Texas 77479.

Top 5 Skills You Need to Secure Your Future as a Dental Assistant

April 15, 2023

By now, we have had multiple discussions on the skills you need as a dental assistant. From listening to communication, these traits help you become better at your job. Being a dental assistant is pretty rewarding, and doing it right is what we all aim for. After all, you are a part of the dentistry world that helps people feel confident in their smile while preventing oral health issues.

In today’s blog post, however, we will discuss how you can secure your future as a dental assistant using skills that demand high pay and a good position. Therefore, keep reading to learn the ins and outs of this rewarding trade!

What Makes You Stand Out as a Dental Assistant

If you have chosen the dental assistant career path, there is a lot you will learn, including valuable skills. Here are some skills that can help ensure your career as a dental assistant is safe and secure you high-paying jobs:

  • In-Office Training
    Nothing comes close to the power of hands-on in-office training for a dental assistant. If you have experience in a certain setting, such as pediatrics, orthodontics, etc., as a dental assistant, it can provide you with opportunities to work for those types of offices. Moreover, you may even get an offer with an increased salary, given that you have adequate training and experience. Having command in a specialized practice setting can improve your chances of qualifying for the job in the competitive market.
    You may also opt for externships and work with non-profit community health clinics to receive exposure as well as training in live dental work, preparing you for a successful future.
  • Special Dental Assistant Skills
    Usually, the responsibilities of a dental assistant include setting up instrument trays, preparing materials, disinfecting instruments, and more. You can, however, go a step further and learn the required skills and tasks while you are studying to become a dental assistant. You will learn them later under the guidance of fellow assistants or dentists, but excelling in those skills beforehand gives you an advantage, shows dedication, and makes it possible to secure a job. That’s not all — learning soft skills goes a long way too!
  • Increasing Credentials Regarding Functions
    The more tasks you can perform, the more responsibilities you can be trusted with. Hence, the more skills you know as an entry-level dental assistant, the more favorable you become as a potential hire. With your knowledge of skills, the dental practice will run smoothly, and your hourly wage may increase. In short, expanding function credentials improves your future as a dental assistant.
  • Dental Assisting National Board or DANB Certification
    Having extra credentials will never go to waste, especially if you are a dental assistant. Depending on where you choose to work, you can sit for the dental assisting national board or state tests. This way, you have the opportunity to enhance your resume.
  • Office Management
    Dental assistants are well aware of the daily ongoing and the ins and outs of the dental practice, which equips them with the necessary skills to become office managers. Yes, dental assistants can get promoted to medical professions with increased salaries and additional responsibilities with great potential.

Conclusion

In conclusion, there are many skills that can help you secure higher pay as a dental assistant. So get started on this journey by enrolling in Greatwood Dental Assisting Program today. Dial (281) 728-6012 to talk to us or give us a visit at 19875 SW Freeway, Suite 120A Sugar Land, Texas 77479.

The Importance of Communication Skills for Dental Assistants

February 28, 2023

As a dental assistant, communication skills are essential for providing quality patient care and ensuring a smooth workflow in the dental office. Effective communication can help build trust and establish rapport with patients, and also help dental assistants work effectively with other members of the dental team.

In this blog post, we will explore the importance of communication skills for dental assistants and provide tips for developing and improving these skills.

Why Communication Skills Are Important for Dental Assistants

Building rapport with patients: Dental procedures can be stressful for some patients, and building a strong relationship with them can help ease their anxiety. Dental assistants can use effective communication to build rapport with patients and establish a sense of trust.

This can help patients feel more comfortable during dental procedures, which can lead to better outcomes and patient satisfaction.

  • Facilitating patient education: Dental assistants play a critical role in educating patients about proper oral hygiene and dental procedures. Effective communication skills can help dental assistants convey complex information in a way that patients can understand. By providing clear and concise instructions, dental assistants can help patients take an active role in their oral health and reduce the risk of complications.
  • Coordinating with the dental team: Dental assistants work closely with dentists, dental hygienists, and other members of the dental team. Effective communication skills can help dental assistants coordinate care, ensure patient safety, and streamline workflow. By communicating effectively, dental assistants can help ensure that dental procedures are performed efficiently and effectively, which can improve patient outcomes and satisfaction.

Tips for Developing and Improving Communication Skills

  • Listen actively: Effective communication starts with active listening. When interacting with patients or other members of the dental team, make an effort to listen carefully to what they are saying. Use open-ended questions to encourage patients to share their concerns, and be attentive to their body language and nonverbal cues.
  • Be clear and concise: When providing instructions or conveying information, be clear and concise. Use simple language and avoid technical jargon that patients may not understand. Repeat key points to ensure that patients have a clear understanding of what is being discussed.
  • Use visual aids: Visual aids, such as diagrams and models, can be helpful for explaining complex procedures or conditions. Use these tools to supplement verbal instructions and ensure that patients have a clear understanding of the treatment plan.
  • Practice empathy: Patients may be anxious or nervous about dental procedures, and showing empathy can help ease their concerns. Take the time to understand their perspective and provide reassurance and support as needed.
  • Use appropriate tone and body language: Tone of voice and body language can convey a lot of information about your attitude and demeanor. Use a friendly, upbeat tone and maintain eye contact to convey confidence and professionalism. Avoid negative body language, such as crossed arms or a slouching posture, which can create a negative impression.

Wrap Up

Effective communication skills are essential for dental assistants to provide quality patient care and work effectively with other members of the dental team. By building rapport with patients, facilitating patient education, and coordinating care with other members of the dental team, dental assistants can help improve patient outcomes and satisfaction.

By practicing active listening, being clear and concise, using visual aids, practicing empathy, and using appropriate tone and body language, dental assistants can develop and improve their communication skills and become more effective in their roles.

The Greatwood Dental Assisting Program helps guide you in the right direction for all your dental career needs. Get started now by calling our team at (281) 728-6012 and make sure to ask about any inquiries you may have!

Don’t Forget to Ask Your Dental Assistant Instructor These 3 Questions

December 15, 2022

Are you excited about your student life as a dental assistant? You might be nervous and excited to get started on this new, rewarding phase of your life. From collecting study tips to planning your schedule, there’s a lot you want to be prepared for. But relax, take a breather and let the dental assistant life come to you.

One important aspect of being a student is asking questions to clear up any confusion. But what exactly should you ask your dental assistant instructor? In this blog, we’ll let you know some questions to ask your dental assistant instructor.

Questions You Can Ask Your Dental Assistant Instructor

Asking questions allows you to comprehend better. By showing curiosity, you make yourself stand out as a student. Plus, it helps you understand what’s going on.
Some questions you can ask include the following:

1. Why is this Topic Important?

By asking your instructor the goal of the lesson, you can open your horizons to the dental assistant world. This way, you can learn the different aspects that build your knowledge of this field. Moreover, you can stand out as being interested in why a certain task is important. Asking why you’re doing something paves the way for you to develop a deeper understanding of the subject.

The ‘why’ will help you internalize the concept and its importance. In the long-term, this can help you prepare for explaining the significance of whatever procedure you’re performing to a patient.

2. How Will We Use this When Working With Patients?

For dental assistant students, it’s of utmost importance to learn the theory behind the practical skills they’ll apply in their respective fields. Knowing how the information you’re learning will help your patients is a remarkable trait in a dental assistant. Thus, make sure you know how you’ll be using the skills for a dental assistant that you learn in your classroom.

3. What Aspects Should I Work On?

It’s a known fact: No one is perfect. Therefore, acknowledging that and working towards your improvement is the characteristic of a great person. Being excited about learning and working on your skills will add to your strengths as a dental assistant. Like other fields, dental assisting is always evolving. This is why you should be updated with all the changes and know how to handle different situations.

When you go for your internship, you’ll have the perfect opportunity to learn from your peers and mentors. You can always observe what they do and ask for their feedback. This is a time to develop your practical skills, don’t let it go to waste! Instead, ask your instructor when you don’t understand something. In addition, get their reviews and feedback to improve any shortcomings you have. It’s okay not to be the best at everything — you always have room for growth.

Other Questions You Can Ask Your Instructor

Apart from the above-mentioned questions, you can bring up the following queries to your instructor:

  • What’s the day like in the life of a dental assistant?
  • How do I get my first dental assistant job?
  • Do dental assistants work in other fields?

Aiming to Become a Dental Assistant?

Life as a dental student might make you anxious, but that’s just the jitters. You can always ask your professors and instructors questions to learn what you don’t know. At the Greatwood Dental Assisting Program, you can gain the skills needed for a good dental assistant. Contact us for more information at (281) 728-6012. Visit us at 19875 Southwest Fwy #120a, Sugar Land, TX 77479, United States.

Here’s Why Organizational Skills Matter the Most for Dental Assistants

September 30, 2022

If you dream of bringing a revolutionary change to the dental field, then perhaps the biggest characteristic you need to own is being organized.

Believe it or not, organizational skills are highly valuable skills that all dental assistants require. You might wonder why that might be so and whether or not it even brings a smidge of a difference. But honestly, it does.

Having good organizational skills is a fundamental need. So much so that most dental clinics list it as one of the key features when hiring a dental assistant. Curious to know how it all ties together? Luckily for you, we’ve put together all our information in this blog, so keep reading to find out.

Why are Organizational Skills Important for a Dental Assistant?

The main reason why organizational skills rise to the top, perhaps more so than others, is owed to their routine use.

Since dental assistants are the caretakers of the clinics, all administrative and practical responsibilities fall on their shoulders. They’re the ones leading their troops through the rough storms. Handling patients, managing records, and keeping tabs on the inventory are some of the most important duties a dental assistant must carry out. All these duties, along with minor tasks like knowing scheduled patient times, what surgical room is out of which material, etc., also come under the jurisdiction of a dental assistant.

Due to this, having an eye out for order and cataloging things is crucial, especially in a dentist’s office.

3 Ways Organizational Skills Come In Handy At The Clinic

There are countless ways where being organized and on top of your tasks comes in handy, but some day-to-day instances that tend to make those skills really shine are:

  1. Keeping Track of Patient Records: First and foremost, when it comes to administrative duties, a dental assistant is required to keep track of all the patient records. If they’re not cataloged properly, it could lead to multiple problems. For instance, having a haphazard filing system could accidentally mix up patient records, leading to false diagnoses. That is why organizing patient records in the right manner is crucial and a day-to-day necessity.
  2. Maintaining Patient Data Every dentist’s office has multitudes of files containing critical patient data. This includes patient history, name, age, diagnosis, and all other sensitive material. Maintaining such vital information with care is what a dental assistant needs to do. Filing data with the help of accessible and user-friendly tabs is a critical step one needs to take to ensure the safety and privacy of the patient.
  3. Staying up-to-date with Dental Inventory Keeping tabs on surgical equipment and other essential items is necessary when running a dental clinic. Usually, dental assistants are put in charge of stock-taking, where they have to manage the inventory of the entire office. Scheduling new shipments when previous items run out, ensuring the stock is rightfully labeled and stocked, and other such duties require impeccable organizational skills.

What’s The Takeaway?

All in all, being able to organize things in a certain way might seem like a throwaway to most. But for dental assistants, it is a crucial skill to possess. Want to pursue your dental dreams? Contact Greatwood Dental Assisting Programat 2(281) 728-6012 today for more information.

Thinking of Becoming a Dental Assistant? Here are 7 Important Things to Know Beforehand!

September 15, 2022

No doubt, being in the medical field has many benefits. It is, by far, one of the most rewarding jobs out there. That is perhaps why even the dental field is on the rise. However, as heartwarming as it is, becoming a dental assistant isn’t exactly a piece of cake. There’s a lot of skill and hard work that goes into fulfilling your dreams.

So, if you too want to become a dental assistant, there are some things you need to keep in mind. That is why in this blog, we’ll list everything you need to know before pursuing a dental assistant certificate.

  1. The Dental Field is Growing Everyday The one good thing about becoming a dental assistant is that there are plenty of jobs in the market. Since the dental field is growing super fast, it has been estimated that by 2026, there will be an additional 18% increase in dental assistant jobs. So you no longer have to worry about unemployment when chasing your dental dreams.
  2. Excellent Communication Skills One of the main jobs of a dental assistant is to communicate with the patients. This means that you will need to have excellent command over your customer service skills. When patients feel nervous or scared before their surgery, you’ll need to comfort them and talk them down. Similarly, having good communication skills also allows you to interact with the head dentist with ease. Understanding what the dentist is saying and then conveying it to the patients, among other menial duties, is what you should excel at.
  3. You Gotta Be Quick on Your Feet Manual dexterity is key for dental assistants. Since you’ll be required to be on your feet most of the time, being quick to handle situations is a given. Be it on the administrative side or practical; dental assistants must be swift, especially when dealing with tasks that require precision and utmost care. Such as taking an x-ray or being a stand-in during an invasive dental surgery.
  4. Detail is Key A detail-oriented person is always in need. Even more so when it comes to dental assistants. Considering how they deal with dental situations, their attention to detail might help diagnose the patients in time. Moreover, sterilizing the equipment, preparing surgical tools, setting the tray, etc., are all jobs that require someone who is meticulous.
  5. Working Under Pressure is the Norm Be prepared to work under constant pressure, not in a bad way, but through a busy rush. Since dental assistants have to move around a lot and have many responsibilities to deal with, it’s normal for them to work under pressure. Thus, this is something you should be accustomed to. Keeping your cool and remaining calm when under pressure is essential to becoming a dental assistant.
  6. Good at Solo Riding Being able to work independently is a sign of a good dental assistant since sometimes you might have to take the lead when the dentist is out of the office. You will have to complete your tasks on time, ensure they’re done right, and keep everything well-organized.
  7. You Need to be Tech-Savvy No dental assistant can function without having superb technical skills. Handling the x-ray machine, suction device, and other electronic lab equipment is an absolute must.

Long Story Short

Becoming a dental assistant is undoubtedly very fulfilling and rewarding. But in return, it also asks you to dedicate your time and patience to the field. Hopefully, after finding out about the top seven things to keep in mind, you now feel well-prepared for your dental journey. For more information on dental assistants, contact Greatwood Dental Assisting Program at (281) 728-6012

3 Essential Skills a Dental Assistant Learns After The Trainee Period

August 15, 2022

Becoming a Dental Assistant takes a lot of hard work and patience. As long as you hold your ground, you will be met with fruitful results. Not to mention, physical training is the best aspect of it all. Plus, thanks to the progressive times, a Dental Assistant’s job is highly sought after.

You need quite a lot of dedication to be a part of the dental field. Not only does it serve as a way to help change lives, but you also make a positive difference.

What Does it Take to be a Dental Assistant?

As rewarding as it is, a dental assistant’s job isn’t all that easy. You need grit and commitment to get through it. Moreover, there are some crucial factors that a candidate should possess before qualifying for the job, such as:

  1. Communication Skills
  2. Quick on Feet
  3. Must Possess Basic Dentistry Knowledge
  4. Fast Learner
  5. Good Operational Skills

3 Skills You’ll Learn as a Dental Assistant

Let’s say you finally decide to pursue your dental dreams. Now, you just need to sign up for a dental assisting program and watch your world change! In a span of a few weeks, you will emerge as a qualified dental assistant, able to flaunt your newly learned skills.

It’s a given that you will have to learn a lot and go through various physical demonstrations. Nonetheless, with a good program to back you up, you’ll be able to tackle any problem.

Moreover, you will pick up on plenty of exclusive skills due to physical dental training. Some of these you might forget, but others are crucial. Not to mention, these skills only tend to enhance after continuous practice and experience. Three of these esteemed skills are:

Administrative skills

One of the primary duties of a dental assistant is to take over the administrative work of the clinic. These duties can range from scheduling appointments, filing records, keeping track of invoices and payments, etc. At times, even managing the inventory can be a top priority. That is, you’ll be required to take note of all the medications or tools, especially if they need to be ordered again.

Interpersonal skills

Being able to communicate with patients is vital when it comes to a healthcare worker. During appointments, there may be times a patient would mostly interact with a dental assistant. Thus, to help relieve stress or manage their nervousness, a good dental assistant must possess strong interpersonal skills. Building rapport with patients leads to trust, and with trust, everything else comes with ease.

Technical skills

Being technologically advanced is important for all dental assistants. For instance, it is crucial to know about the different tools for a procedure, such as how to use and sterilize them, etc. Furthermore, you will also learn how to perform various treatments and how to take a dental x-ray. That is why a good dental assistant should be a keen learner who is quick on their feet.

Conclusion

In the end, just know that being a dental assistant is 100% worth the journey. Plus, it only takes ten weeks to earn the level of expertise you might have thought impossible.

So why wait? Schedule a slot with Greatwood Dental Assisting Program today and boost your dental skills to the next level. All you have to do is call (281) 728-6012, and we’ll take care of the rest.

Dental Nurse vs. Dental Assistant | What’s the Better Option?

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July 30, 2022

The medical world is full of titles and roles suited for everyone’s niche. Dentistry is the same; it’s a field comprised of various positions. When you visit a dentist’s office, it’s pretty rare to find them alone. Usually, an entire team is there as backup, be it for a simple consultation or an in-depth surgery.

Consequently, dentists always make sure to surround themselves with knowledgeable attendants by their side. But what about their second in command? Between a Dental Nurse vs. a Dental Assistant, what is the right term, and how are they different?

How is a Dental Nurse different from a Dental Assistant?
It’s pretty usual for people to get confused between the two jobs. After all, a nurse’s duty is to assist the dentist, right? So what then is a dental assistant required to do? What makes the two of them set apart from one another?

The simple answer to that would be Nothing.

A dental assistant and a dental nurse are, in actuality, the same thing. Just like how a medical nurse has to support the doctor, a dental assistant plays a similar role at a dental clinic.

What does a Dental Assistant do?

The chief responsibility of a dental assistant is exactly as the name suggests — to assist. However, just because they’re known as assistants doesn’t mean they only get to watch from the sidelines. In fact, dental assistants get plenty of fieldwork and experience. They can easily take over multiple roles in a clinic with proper training and guidance. Most of their duties are centered around:

  • Administrative Work
  • Interacting with patients
  • Taking & setting up X-Rays
  • Small surgical procedures
  • Getting dental impressions
  • Lending a hand to the dentist
  • Preparing the tools and equipment needed
  • Filing patient records

What does it take to become a Dental Assistant?

Becoming a dental assistant is no easy work. It’s a job that requires extreme dedication and hard work. Not to mention, there are three key skills you must possess if you wish to be a dental assistant.

  1. Interpersonal Skills
    • Team player
    • Highly empathetic
    • Willing to learn
    • Good at communication
  2. Management Skills
    • Good at organizing
    • Detail-oriented
    • Efficient in technology
    • Ability to multitask
  3. Practical Skills
    • Able to handle minor procedures
    • Knowledgable about basic dentistry
    • Quick on feet

Is Being a Dental Assistant Worth It?

It might seem taxing at first, but a dental assistant’s job is highly rewarding. They not only get to help people out but there’s always a chance for them to advance in their field. Being a part of something that enables people to look after their health is gratifying on its own. Moreover, dental assistants can even decide to go on and expand their reach if they wish to do so. They could go for dental missions in developing countries and offer aid. Besides, choosing to be a dental nurse can open up multiple roads that allow you to do much more.

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The Closing Word

All in all, the titles and duties of a dental nurse vs. a dental assistant don’t differ much. In fact, both of the terms can be used interchangeably on multiple accounts. For more information on dental assistants and the like, visit Greatwood Dental Assisting Program or call 281-975-3489. We’re here to offer our guidance whenever you need it.

Schedule a Campus Tour and Interview with Dr Jafferally

Want to see where you’ll be training? Schedule a one-on-one tour with Dr. Jafferally and our team to experience the facilities firsthand. Learn more about our state-of-the-art equipment, expert instructors, and comprehensive curriculum designed to fast-track your career in dental assisting.

Start your journey today and become a dental assistant with the best training in dental assistant programs in Houston, TX!
To Schedule a Tour Please Click Here

Communication Skills: Why Are They Important for a Dental Assistant?

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June 30, 2022

A dental assistant interacts with patients throughout the day; they are often the first point of interaction at a dental office. Moreover, they have to schedule appointments, answer phone calls, work with the dentist, etc. Therefore, dental assistants interact with people of all ages and backgrounds. This article will explain why communication skills are essential for dental assistants.

Why Communication Skills Are Important for Dental Assistants

Effective communication skills can come in handy as a dental assistant. It is important for them to be good at communication, as:

  1. They Communicate with Patients
    Patients often come across dental assistants before and after their procedures. Certified dental assistants can help patients understand their condition and the procedure they will go under. For this, they need to be empathetic and sympathetic to their patients. Empathy is vital to understanding their situation; sympathy will help them feel sorry for the patient. Therefore, it is essential to have a good command of communication skills. Many people experience anxiety and doubts before their procedure, but the dental assistant can help them relax. Similarly, children are often afraid of the dentist’s office. A credible dental assistant can help them by speaking the right words and knowing what to say.
    Communications are also crucial to assess the patient and incorporate suitable techniques to converse with them. In addition, they can also utilize their communication skills while educating
    the patient about their oral hygiene.
  2. They Help the Dentist While They Work
    Usually, dental assistants help dentists manage the workflow and offer hands-on support. To work efficiently, a dental assistant needs to be good at anticipating what the dentist needs next. Therefore, they need to be good at both verbal and non-verbal communication. Moreover, they need to be attentive and focused on the task at hand. Being adept at their job also requires them to be aware of the patient’s responses. If a patient is frightened, they might pull away. Hence, the dental assistant should be prepared to comfort them with words and gentle touches.
  3. They Interact Over Telephones
    Telephone communications are over the phone and do not allow us to see the other person. This makes it hard to assess who you are talking to and guess if they got what you were saying. Therefore, listening again comes to play here. Listening to the other person’s tone and way of speaking can help determine if the communication is effective. Pauses, volume, sighs, pace, and other signs can give an insight into communication problems. Hence, it is always helpful to clarify communication problems.

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What to do?

Communication and intrapersonal skills are a must-have for dental assistants. They need to be active listeners and provide appropriate feedback. Dental assistants must be skilled at communication as they interact with patients and other dental professionals and talk to other people to perform their duties.

At Greatwood Dental Assisting Program, you can now become a dental assistant. Dial (281) 728-6012 for more information.

Schedule a Campus Tour and Interview with Dr Jafferally

Want to see where you’ll be training? Schedule a one-on-one tour with Dr. Jafferally and our team to experience the facilities firsthand. Learn more about our state-of-the-art equipment, expert instructors, and comprehensive curriculum designed to fast-track your career in dental assisting.

Start your journey today and become a dental assistant with the best training in dental assistant programs in Houston, TX!
To Schedule a Tour Please Click Here

Did You Know the 4 Types of Dental Assistants & What They Do?

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June 15, 2022

Dental assistants work under dentists and help manage the workflow. They help handle various tasks in the dental office like patient checkups, scheduling appointments, cleaning teeth, etc. Sometimes, they might be asked to perform a specific task or procedure, depending on their experience and education. Are you wondering how many types of dental assistants there are? We got you. Read this blog to find out four types of dental assistants and what they do.

Types of Dental Assistants

Are you curious about the types of dental assistants? Here are four types to help you decide what to go for:

  1. Entry Level or Unregistered Dental Assistant Dental assistants with no prior training or experience are usually required to do basic tasks. Unregistered dental assistants work under the observation of a dentist. Moreover, they help them with minor tasks like patient checkups, taking x-rays, and offering water to patients. Unless they receive more comprehensive on-the-job training, they will remain at this level. You can even find unregistered dental assistants at high school.
  2. Dental Radiologic Technologist Dental radiologic technologists receive training concerned with dental x-rays. Hence, they cannot perform other tasks like dental care, filling cavities, fitting dentures, etc. Since they have formal training about dental x-rays, that is the only task they are permitted to carry out. Moreover, dental assistants trained to perform x-rays must be licensed in most states.
  3. Certified Dental Assistant A certified dental assistant or CDA must complete a recognized dental assistant program and pass a national board examination. Having a CDA certificate implies that you are qualified and informed professional. Therefore, certified dental assistants have an advantage over entry-level dental assistants, as they have completed an entire program. This means that they will be trusted with more tasks. Furthermore, they work alongside dentists to care for patients and perform tasks like applying the sealant to the teeth, treating x-rays, and more. Additionally, they are also capable of diagnosing and treating some oral conditions. Also, they can apply temporary fillings too!
    Although you don’t need a CDA certificate for an entry-level job, having one definitely puts you in the lead.
  4. Registered Dental Assistant Registered dental assistants complete a board-approved dental assisting program and pass a national board examination. RDA is the highest dental assistant level. However, to become one, you may need work experience as a certified dental assistant first. Compared to a CDA, an RDA can perform various dental procedures like:
    • Diagnose oral conditions
    • Make referrals
    • Perform some office procedures under a dentist’s observation
    • Prepare amalgam to apply on teeth’s surface
    • Adjust temporary restorations
    • Set rubber dams
    • Place temporary restorations while crowns or veneers are being prepared
    • Adjust removable appliances before they are positioned inside the mouth

Call Us Now – 281-728-6012

Dental assistants are of four types: entry-level or unregistered, dental radiologic technologist, certified dental assistant, and registered dental assistant. They work under dentists to help them during procedures, aid in managing workflow, schedule appointments, and much more. Are you looking for a dental assisting program? You can find the best one at Greatwood Dental Assisting Program. Dial (281) 728-6012 to get more information.

Schedule a Campus Tour and Interview with Dr Jafferally

Want to see where you’ll be training? Schedule a one-on-one tour with Dr. Jafferally and our team to experience the facilities firsthand. Learn more about our state-of-the-art equipment, expert instructors, and comprehensive curriculum designed to fast-track your career in dental assisting.

Start your journey today and become a dental assistant with the best training in dental assistant programs in Houston, TX!
To Schedule a Tour Please Click Here

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