6 answers
Fatima
Student
Cypress, California
1
Question
Asked
563 views
dental assisting
What are your thoughts on Dental Assisting? Is it worth it? Pros? Cons? And final question, what's the difference between dental assisting as and dental assistant cert? Thank you in advance!
Login to comment
4 answers
Adrian Acosta
Dentist
1
Answer
La Habra, California
Updated
Adrian’s Answer
Dental assisting is a great career choice. There are many,many,many dental assistants who are giving minimal effort. They just clock in and do the minimum requirement to get their pay. This is unfortunate for them and the employers they work for. But it's very fortunate for someone who is willing to go the extra mile to do their job and learn more to take on added responsibility. When I get an assistant who hustles. tries to learn more. takes on extra responsibilities, and generally tries to over-achieve, I take the extra time to train them to do jobs that make my life easier and more productive. This in turn makes them more valuable and makes their job more rewarding and interesting. The field is set up in a way that you can be trained on the job and take certification tests to get higher and higher certifications meaning you don't necessarily have to pay a school to train you. You just have to learn on the job and when you feel you have enough knowledge you can test for higher certifications. I have known several assistants who have grown over their careers and now basically run the show because they have learned every aspect of their job and fulfill so many needs that they have become indispensable. You must be patient and persevere but without any monetary investment, overtime, you can become very qualified and essential to the business.
Berrett Chestleigh
Dentist
2
Answers
Bolingbrook, Illinois
Updated
Berrett’s Answer
Hi, I see that there is already a great answer to this question, but I wanted to throw my opinion in as a Dentist. Dental Assistants are incredibly important to the function of a dental office. They handle things like taking X-rays, helping the dentist during procedures, and talking with patients to determine what their dental concerns are. Some Pros would be helping people and gaining dental and medical knowledge that will help in so many areas of life. Some cons could be that your hours are really contingent on the dentist. If they are on vacation or out sick, chances are that you would miss those hours of work.
When it comes to Dental Assisting I would encourage you to look into Expanded Function Dental Assisting (also called Expanded Duty Dental Assisting in some states) programs. These programs teach dental assistants to do other tasks like completing fillings in teeth, performing cleanings, etc. This is a very sought after type of dental assistant and the salary increase from being certified as a Expanded Function Dental Assistant (EFDA) is a significant increase from base level dental assisting. As an EFDA you would have a nice salary and would likely be the lead Dental Assistant wherever yo decide to go.
Good luck with your career journey!
When it comes to Dental Assisting I would encourage you to look into Expanded Function Dental Assisting (also called Expanded Duty Dental Assisting in some states) programs. These programs teach dental assistants to do other tasks like completing fillings in teeth, performing cleanings, etc. This is a very sought after type of dental assistant and the salary increase from being certified as a Expanded Function Dental Assistant (EFDA) is a significant increase from base level dental assisting. As an EFDA you would have a nice salary and would likely be the lead Dental Assistant wherever yo decide to go.
Good luck with your career journey!
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian-Nutritionist & Software Developer since 1972 🡆 Optimization Of Human Performance
7223
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Good Day Fatima!
Dental Assisting: An Overview
Dental assisting is a vital role in the dental healthcare system, providing support to dentists and ensuring that patients receive quality care. This profession involves various tasks, including preparing patients for treatment, assisting during procedures, managing patient records, and maintaining dental equipment.
Is Dental Assisting Worth It?
The worth of pursuing a career in dental assisting can be evaluated through several factors:
Job Demand: The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that employment for dental assistants will grow by 11% from 2022 to 2032, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is driven by an increasing demand for dental services as the population ages and becomes more health-conscious.
Education and Training: Most dental assistant programs require a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by a certificate or associate degree in dental assisting. These programs typically take about one year to complete, making it a relatively quick path to entering the workforce compared to other healthcare professions.
Salary Potential: According to the BLS, the median annual wage for dental assistants was approximately $41,180 as of May 2022. While this may not be as high as some other healthcare roles, it offers a stable income with opportunities for advancement.
Work Environment: Dental assistants often work in clean and organized environments within dental offices or clinics. The job typically involves regular hours with limited evening or weekend shifts, contributing to a good work-life balance.
Career Advancement Opportunities: With experience and additional certifications, dental assistants can advance into roles such as office managers or specialized positions (e.g., orthodontic assistant). Continuing education can also lead to higher salaries.
Pros of Dental Assisting
High Job Demand: As mentioned earlier, there is significant growth expected in this field.
Short Training Period: Programs are generally short and allow individuals to enter the workforce quickly.
Variety of Tasks: The role includes diverse responsibilities that keep the job interesting.
Patient Interaction: Dental assistants often build relationships with patients and play an essential role in their care.
Potential for Specialization: There are opportunities to specialize in areas like oral surgery or pediatrics.
Cons of Dental Assisting
Physical Demands: The job can be physically taxing due to long periods of standing and repetitive motions.
Emotional Challenges: Dealing with anxious patients or those with severe dental issues can be stressful.
Limited Salary Growth Without Further Education: While entry-level salaries are decent, significant increases may require additional certifications or moving into different roles within dentistry.
Difference Between Dental Assisting and Dental Assistant Certification
Dental Assisting Programs: These refer to educational programs that provide training in various aspects of dental care. Graduates receive diplomas or certificates upon completion but may not necessarily be certified.
Dental Assistant Certification (e.g., CDA): This certification is awarded by professional organizations such as the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) after passing an exam that assesses knowledge and skills relevant to dental assisting. Certification demonstrates a higher level of competency and professionalism in the field.
In summary, pursuing a career in dental assisting can be worthwhile given the strong job outlook, relatively short training period, and potential for career advancement. However, individuals should weigh both pros and cons before deciding if this path aligns with their personal goals and circumstances.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question:
Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) - A government agency that provides comprehensive data on employment statistics across various occupations including job outlooks, salary information, and educational requirements.
Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) - A recognized authority on certification for dental assistants; it provides information about certification processes and standards within the profession.
American Dental Association (ADA) - A leading organization representing dentists; it offers resources on education pathways, professional development opportunities, and industry trends related to dentistry including dental assisting careers.
Probability that the answer is correct: 95%
✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯
|==========================God Bless You, Richly!==========================|
|===========================James Constantine===========================|
|===================THE AUSTRALIAN OUTBACK DIETITIAN==================|
|===================Programming For Your Nutrition Education=================|
|============================~ Since 1972!==============================|
✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯
Dental Assisting: An Overview
Dental assisting is a vital role in the dental healthcare system, providing support to dentists and ensuring that patients receive quality care. This profession involves various tasks, including preparing patients for treatment, assisting during procedures, managing patient records, and maintaining dental equipment.
Is Dental Assisting Worth It?
The worth of pursuing a career in dental assisting can be evaluated through several factors:
Job Demand: The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that employment for dental assistants will grow by 11% from 2022 to 2032, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is driven by an increasing demand for dental services as the population ages and becomes more health-conscious.
Education and Training: Most dental assistant programs require a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by a certificate or associate degree in dental assisting. These programs typically take about one year to complete, making it a relatively quick path to entering the workforce compared to other healthcare professions.
Salary Potential: According to the BLS, the median annual wage for dental assistants was approximately $41,180 as of May 2022. While this may not be as high as some other healthcare roles, it offers a stable income with opportunities for advancement.
Work Environment: Dental assistants often work in clean and organized environments within dental offices or clinics. The job typically involves regular hours with limited evening or weekend shifts, contributing to a good work-life balance.
Career Advancement Opportunities: With experience and additional certifications, dental assistants can advance into roles such as office managers or specialized positions (e.g., orthodontic assistant). Continuing education can also lead to higher salaries.
Pros of Dental Assisting
High Job Demand: As mentioned earlier, there is significant growth expected in this field.
Short Training Period: Programs are generally short and allow individuals to enter the workforce quickly.
Variety of Tasks: The role includes diverse responsibilities that keep the job interesting.
Patient Interaction: Dental assistants often build relationships with patients and play an essential role in their care.
Potential for Specialization: There are opportunities to specialize in areas like oral surgery or pediatrics.
Cons of Dental Assisting
Physical Demands: The job can be physically taxing due to long periods of standing and repetitive motions.
Emotional Challenges: Dealing with anxious patients or those with severe dental issues can be stressful.
Limited Salary Growth Without Further Education: While entry-level salaries are decent, significant increases may require additional certifications or moving into different roles within dentistry.
Difference Between Dental Assisting and Dental Assistant Certification
Dental Assisting Programs: These refer to educational programs that provide training in various aspects of dental care. Graduates receive diplomas or certificates upon completion but may not necessarily be certified.
Dental Assistant Certification (e.g., CDA): This certification is awarded by professional organizations such as the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) after passing an exam that assesses knowledge and skills relevant to dental assisting. Certification demonstrates a higher level of competency and professionalism in the field.
In summary, pursuing a career in dental assisting can be worthwhile given the strong job outlook, relatively short training period, and potential for career advancement. However, individuals should weigh both pros and cons before deciding if this path aligns with their personal goals and circumstances.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question:
Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) - A government agency that provides comprehensive data on employment statistics across various occupations including job outlooks, salary information, and educational requirements.
Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) - A recognized authority on certification for dental assistants; it provides information about certification processes and standards within the profession.
American Dental Association (ADA) - A leading organization representing dentists; it offers resources on education pathways, professional development opportunities, and industry trends related to dentistry including dental assisting careers.
Probability that the answer is correct: 95%
✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯
|==========================God Bless You, Richly!==========================|
|===========================James Constantine===========================|
|===================THE AUSTRALIAN OUTBACK DIETITIAN==================|
|===================Programming For Your Nutrition Education=================|
|============================~ Since 1972!==============================|
✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯
Taylor Thornton
Dental Assistant
1
Answer
Schenectady, New York
Updated
Taylor’s Answer
I honestly think it’s one of those fields where you need to make sure it’s something you want to do and not something you do just to do it. There needs to be passion. All you can really do is your best and enjoy the education and whatever career comes out of it and again, don’t go into it for a check since you won’t be making much starting out without experience. Experience is super important, but also remember that many dentist will train you on the job as they have their ways of doing things. You learn so much more actually being in the field than from reading a book and practicing in lab, and it’s also great to put on your resume or see if you’d enjoy the job in the long run. if this is something you’re on the fence about you can always ask the Shadow at an office to see if it’s something you’re interested in, but just remember that even if you start in one area of dentistry. There are so many more opportunities out there that can really make being an assistant worthwhile. No matter what field you go in, you'll find people who only have bad things to say about it, especially if they're burnt out or had false/high expectations. I've noticed that sometimes it's even about the specialty. You might think you hate the entire field until you find the right specialty. as I said, there is so many opportunities out there and people typically post the bad, rarely the good.