One of the disadvantages of being a dental assistant is that you are expected to be able to navigate computer graphics systems and operate electronic devices. An advantage of becoming one is that you have very flexible working hours. Their working hours are usually determined by how much the dentist wants to work, and in most parts of the country, many dentists are only open about 4 days a week. Many dental assistants work less than 40 hours a week.
There are also plenty of part-time options, so it's a good job for those who want to spend more time with their families. The dental assistant's duties can often include cleaning the patient's mouth after a dental procedure. This can cause it to come into contact with several types of body fluids, such as bone fragments, blood, and bone fragments. You can reduce contact with these liquids by wearing clothing that completely covers your body while you work and by wearing protective equipment, such as goggles and a medical face mask.
Patients in a dentist's office may be carriers of various diseases or pathogens. Because you can handle a patient's body fluids during a consultation, there is a slight risk of exposure to harmful germs. You can reduce your chances of getting sick by maintaining a clean environment, using protective equipment while working with patients, and following a facility's health safety procedures. If you like helping people improve their quality of life, you may find a career as a dental assistant particularly satisfying.
It's important to weigh the pros and cons of a dental assistant career before deciding if it's the right choice for you. Working as a dental assistant can provide you with opportunities to advance your career and improve your general knowledge of dental practices. While dental care has several professional advantages, there are also multiple disadvantages, such as the possibility of physical injury, in the field. The best thing to do is go in person to see your dentist for an exam and consultation so you can get the best possible care.
This is probably the least pleasant aspect of being a dental assistant, but if you can handle it or get used to it, you may have a very pleasant career to look forward to. Dental assistants in dental clinics and surgeries usually work with fixed hours, although dental assistants employed by hospitals may have flexible hours. Many roles as a dental assistant involve interacting with patients, which can benefit community service-oriented professionals. Some days may be more difficult when you try to help patients with bad breath or who are angry or not at all with you because of their dental pain.
Your salary as a dental assistant may increase with experience, certifications, industry, and other factors. Salaries may increase if you complete additional certification courses or live in a city where dental assistants usually earn more. If you prefer more autonomy in a job, consider asking for responsibilities that you can perform on your own or talking to your supervisor about possible independent tasks. To help calm patients down, consider practicing your empathy skills so you can respond with compassion and encourage them to communicate effectively.
Some specialties you may consider when looking for dental assistant jobs include orthodontics, oral surgery, and community dentistry. These are much older members of the team and are generally considered primary assistants in a dental office. Dental assistants work below dentists and, occasionally, dental hygienists, which means they usually follow their instructions during a typical work day. .
