| Dental assistants are an extremely important part | | | | make this process easier on a patient is one who |
| of successful dental practices. Hence, there are | | | | will be highly valued in her profession. |
| certain skill sets that employers seek when hiring | | | | Education & Training: To become a dental |
| for this position. Following are some obvious - and | | | | assistant, you must undergo the necessary |
| not so obvious - traits. Do you have what it | | | | training. Dental assistant programs of study offer |
| takes to become a dental assistant? | | | | this. Depending on which educational institution you |
| Become a Dental Assistant: Do You Have These | | | | choose, this can be completed in as little as a few |
| 2 Traits? | | | | months. |
| 1. Professionalism: We start with this trait because | | | | The Fastest and Easiest Route to Take to |
| no matter how educated you are, if you're not | | | | Become a Dental Assistant |
| professional in nature and manner, you won't | | | | If you possess the qualities above, then getting |
| even make it past the interview stage. What are | | | | training is your next step. A healthcare education |
| some of the desirable professional traits in this | | | | school is probably the fastest and easiest route |
| profession? | | | | to becoming dental assistant. Why? Because of |
| (i) Communication: Dental assistants are, in effect, | | | | their niche status, their program offerings tend to |
| the face of a dental practice. They probably have | | | | be highly specialized and give you the most |
| more interaction with patients than anyone in the | | | | intense training - in the shortest amount of time - |
| office. They set appointments, update patient files | | | | from the most qualified instructors. |
| and interact with patients during their visit (eg, | | | | No matter which route you take to become a |
| taking x-rays). Hence, superb communication skills | | | | dental assistant, be sure that the institution you |
| are critical. | | | | attend is accredited. Healthcare is a highly |
| (ii) Personal Warmth: Taking it to another level, | | | | regulated profession, and many employers require |
| dental assistants should possess an air of warmth | | | | certificates or degrees from accredited, reputable |
| about them to put patients at ease. Face it, going | | | | institutions. |
| to the dentist is not something that is tops on the | | | | Get more information on Colorado dental careers |
| list for most people. A dental assistant who can | | | | training. |