Dental Assistant

Considering a Dental Assistant Career? The Importance of Preventive Procedures

March 21, 2023

To use the age-old adage, when it comes to people’s oral health, a stitch in time does save nine. To apply it in this case, identifying and preventing dental problems from deteriorating makes it easier to maintain a healthy mouth and prevent a lifetime of pain and regret.

Preventive dental procedures are comprehensive and holistic examinations carried out by dentists and dental assistants with the aim of identifying and treating dental problems at their early stages before they become full-blown issues. If you’re considering a career as a Dental Assistant, understanding the importance of preventive procedures can help make you more efficient and valuable in any future engagement. Read on to discover more.

Oral Examinations

In order to maintain good oral health, regular dental checkups are essential. During check-ups after your Dental Assistant training, you may be tasked with examining the teeth and gums of clients for any signs of disease or decay. By detecting these problems early, you can assist your dental team with the provision of the necessary treatment to prevent small problems from becoming more serious. Regular dental check-ups are also important for maintaining good oral health and preventing dental problems from developing in the first place.

Dental Assistant Training will help you to examine teeth decay and diseases.

Dental cleaning is another important preventive dental health procedure. During a dental cleaning, a dental professional removes plaque and tartar from the teeth, which can help prevent the development of cavities and gum disease. Dental cleanings are recommended at least twice a year, although some people may need them more frequently, depending on their individual oral health needs.

Fluoride Treatments and Dental Sealants

Fluoride treatments are a preventive measure that helps to strengthen teeth and prevent decay. Fluoride is a mineral that occurs naturally in water and certain foods. It works by strengthening tooth enamel and making it more resistant to decay. Fluoride treatments are recommended for people of all ages, and they are especially important for children whose teeth are still developing.

Depending on the client’s circumstances, dental sealants can also be used. As you’ll discover during your Dental Assistant diploma program, sealants are a thin, protective coating that is applied to the surface of the teeth to help prevent decay. They are typically applied to the back teeth, where cavities are most likely to develop. Dental sealants are an effective way to prevent decay and maintain good oral health.

You will learn about sealants during your Dental Assistant Diploma Program.

The Role of Dental Assistants After Dental Assistant Training

In addition to these preventive procedures, dental assistants also play an important role in educating patients about good oral hygiene practices. Dental assistants can provide information on proper brushing and flossing techniques, as well as the importance of a healthy diet in maintaining good oral health. By educating patients on these important topics, dental assistants can help prevent dental problems and promote good oral health.

As a Dental Assistant, it’s critical to understand the importance of these procedures and to educate patients on the benefits of good oral hygiene practices. By doing so, Dental Assistants can help prevent dental problems and promote good oral health for their patients.

 

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Dental Assistant

Considering Dental Assistant Training? A Glimpse Into a Typical Day On the Job

November 18, 2022

Are you considering a dental assistant career? It’s a great path that puts you at the centre of dental care, helping patients feel healthier and more comfortable with their smiles. There are plenty of duties you may be asked to perform in this role, including sterilizing equipment, scheduling appointments, greeting patients, and assisting with dental procedures. If you’re excited to become a dental assistant, you may be wondering what a regular day on the job looks like. Keep reading to learn about some of the daily duties you’ll perform. 

Start by Reviewing the Day’s Patient Schedule and Prepare Records

As a dental assistant, one of the first tasks of the day will be to review the day’s schedule and make sure the patient records of those coming in for dental appointments are readily available to the dentist. This part of your job should be completed well before the first patient arrives so as to stay ahead of the game on busy days. Providing a debrief for your dentist first thing in the morning will be well appreciated. Getting these minor tasks done about half an hour before the office opens will not only help your team stay on the same page but also gives you a chance to prepare your work for the day ahead. Planning ahead is a great habit to develop after dental assistant training!

Get Treatment Rooms Ready for Appointments After Dental Assistant Training

After reviewing the day’s schedule, you’ll have a clear picture of what each treatment room should look like. When working in a busy dental office, minimizing time spent looking for the necessary tools and instruments is helpful in maintaining order in the workplace. Dental health professionals like to have sterile, ready-to-use instruments within arm’s reach. Prepare treatment rooms by cleaning your surroundings and organizing the equipment in a manner that facilitates easy access by you and the dentist. 

Disinfecting will be a regular part of your day after dental assistant training.

Welcome Patients and Assist With a Variety of Dental Procedures 

As patients start arriving, your principal objective should be to greet them, guide them to the right exam room, and assist the dentist with a variety of dental procedures. You’ll likely perform cleanings, x-rays, and hand instruments to the dentist as they carry out treatments. Work after completing a dental assistant course will require a variety of other patient-facing duties, such as educating patients on oral hygiene, providing a comfortable environment for them, and answering their questions about treatments and future appointments.

One of your primary roles after dental assistant training is to help dentists complete procedures more efficiently.

The dental assisting diploma program at Medix College will teach you the skills you need to effectively provide chair support to dentists, take and develop x-rays, schedule appointments, prepare invoices, and properly sterilize instruments. If this brief look at an average dental assistant’s day inspired you, start the process today and enroll now! 

 

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Dental Assistant

Skills You’ll Build While Completing a Dental Assistant School Externship

July 01, 2022

dental assistant school

Imagine spending each and every day helping people gain confidence in themselves and their smiles. Working within the dentistry field is not only a rewarding career but also provides an exciting, fast-paced environment where no two days are the same. 

There is no better time to consider becoming a dental assistant. Job Bank Canada states that there will only be a growing demand for this rewarding career over the coming years, especially in Ontario. Furthermore, it suggests that candidates with intra-oral dental assistant certification will have further improved job prospects. 

If you are considering a career as an intra-oral dental assistant, you may be curious to know how an externship will give you a competitive advantage over others when you graduate. Keep reading to see how our 150-hour off-site placement allows you to further advance the fundamental skills you’ve learned with a real-world experience in a dental facility. 

Gain Technical Skills in Dental Assistant School

Your intra-oral dental assistant training will provide you with comprehensive knowledge about the tools and procedures you’ll be responsible for in your new career. From theory to practice, one of the greatest skills you’ll develop during your externship will be your technical skills.

Preparing dental materials, making impressions, taking x-rays, disinfecting tools and rooms, and anticipating the tools or assistance needed during complex dental procedures are just some of the technical skills you’ll build. Your externship will also test and build your dexterity and hand-eye coordination, as oral care procedures require you to work on a small section of the body using very precise instruments. 

dental assistant college
You’ll turn your dental assistant college theory into practice during your externship

Hone Your Interpersonal and Communication Skills 

As a Dental Assistant, you’ll be working closely with patients and co-workers. During your externship, you’ll gain real-world experience communicating in order to fulfill your duties such as gathering a patient’s medical history, educating them about oral health, explaining procedures and aftercare, breaking down billing and insurance matters, and making sure they’re comfortable in the chair. 

You’ll also build the communication skills that are essential to effectively work alongside the other members of the dental team, particularly listening skills. You’ll follow directions from your supervisors to complete tasks and use professional equipment. 

Develop Good Administrative Skills

Part of a dental assistant career includes office work, such as maintaining patient files, scheduling appointments, and answering phones. By getting the full experience during your externship, you’ll have the opportunity to utilize your time management, organization, multi-tasking, and technology skills while experiencing the administrative side of the career. 

intra oral dental assistant training
Intra-oral dental assistant training also prepares you for the administrative aspects of the career

Build Networking Skills and Make Industry Connections

Not only will you be able to include your externship on your resume, but you’ll have the chance to build a professional network with leaders in the industry before you even graduate from dental assistant school. You’ll work side by side with experts in the field, allowing you to network and make valuable connections within the industry that can enrich your future career opportunities. If you make a lasting impression during your externship there is also always the possibility that your supervisors will consider you if a job opening becomes available.

Overall, your externship will build on a variety of skills that you’ll need to be successful in your new career. You’ll become comfortable in a real-world dentistry environment by working alongside professionals, treating real patients, and gaining confidence in your abilities. With our comprehensive in-class theory, clinic practices, and 150-hour externship, you’ll be job-ready for your new, exciting, and rewarding career.

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Dental Assistant

Industry Trends to Watch for After Dental Assistant Training

May 06, 2022

If you’re considering a future as a dental assistant, your ability to spot trends within the dental industry will help you to become an invaluable member of any dental practice. Today, advancements in technology and changes within the healthcare market have both been influential in shaping the trends affecting the dental industry. What’s more, the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on consumer preferences have largely altered the approach of dental practices to the patient experience, something that will be seen in more dental offices going forward. 

After completing your dental assistant training at Medix College, you’ll be qualified to pursue a career as a dental assistant, educating patients about oral hygiene and supporting dentists in performing a variety of procedures. Below, discover a few dental industry trends which you can expect to see throughout your career.

3D Dental Printing is Making a Splash

3D printing technology is becoming increasingly prevalent in many different industries, offering advantages for more than just engineering or design professionals. Many dental products can be printed quickly and accurately using 3D technology, including clear teeth aligners, dental models, dentures, dental crown substructures, resins and surgical guides. While many dental practices have traditionally contracted third-party services for their 3D needs, today, more dental offices are adopting their own 3D printing materials. As these products become more affordable, you’re likely to see an influx of 3D printing technology after dental assistant training.

After dental assistant training, you’ll notice the prevalence of 3D printing technologies

After Dental Assistant College, You’ll See a Growing Demand for Natural Dental Products

Given the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, consumers have become increasingly health-conscious. Within the dental industry, this has led to a demand for natural dental products. Examples include oral health supplements, sugar and artificial additive-free toothpaste, oral probiotics, herbal mouthwash and bamboo toothbrushes. As more consumers will be likely to choose dental practices which rise to meet this demand and adopt the use of environmentally friendly products and practices, it’s important that dental offices can adapt in the future.

Digital Marketing Will Become More Important

When you’re looking for a restaurant, do you check their Google rating and reviews first? Today, more dental practices are finding that this is how patients are making a decision about their dentist as well. As more consumers put their trust in online reviews and an organization’s online presence, dental practices are beginning to invest in digital marketing, boosting their social media efforts and outreach methods. After completing dental assistant college, it’s likely that you’ll see more dental offices monitoring the reviews that patients leave, and investing in marketing technology to reach their target audience.

A Focus on the Patient Experience Will Be Noticeable

One industry trend that appears to be here for good is the increased attention that dental offices are giving to the patient experience. As consumers become more health-conscious, they’re likely to prioritize dental offices which provide a cleaner and more comfortable environment. Anxiety surrounding dental procedures also plays a role, and more dental practices are striving to accommodate the needs of patients through the installation of televisions near the dentist’s chair, sedation dentistry and even virtual reality technology. In the future, it’s likely that the dental practices which invest in their patient’s comfort will be the most successful. 

The patient experience will be a focal point in the dental industry

Automation Will Affect Patient Management Systems

Communicating with dental patients used to take place exclusively over the phone. However, more options for automated patient outreach are becoming integrated within the dental industry. As technology advances, more dental practices are adopting chatbots which help patients to make appointments, find answers to questions or leave a message for someone. Additionally, more dental practices are using software to remind patients about upcoming appointments. As this automated technology becomes more commonplace, it’s likely that this trend is here to stay within the dental industry.

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Dental Assistant

Why Hands-on Training Is Important Throughout Dental Assistant School

March 11, 2022

A professional dental assistant needs to be skilled in assisting dentists with patient oral care. That’s why aspiring dental assistants should value an education that provides hands-on training and experience in the dental assisting profession. Hands-on training provides dental assistant students with the ability to perform the duties assigned to them during their careers.

At Medix College, you’ll get to practice providing chair support to a dentist and preparing patients for dental examinations. You’ll also learn how to take preliminary impressions, the application and removal of dental dams, coronal polish, fluoride application and much more–under the supervision of a dentist and the dental assisting faculty at Medix College. 

Read on to discover how hands-on training can make a difference in your career!

Hands-on Dental Assistant Training Builds Your Confidence

When you want to pursue a career as a dental assistant, learning through theory alone may not always be enough. Studying the practical work of being a dental assistant is best when hands-on training is involved. Hands-on training removes the doubts you may have when learning new materials and reading how certain dental procedures work. Instead of being unprepared when dealing with patients and providing oral care, your hands-on dental assistant training provides you with real-work experience as you assist with patients under the supervision of a dentist. This builds your confidence and prepares you to put your foot in the door without a doubt when starting your new career. After completing the program, you won’t question your own expertise or the value you bring to the dental industry. 

Watch and Learn During Hands-on Training

Traditional methods of learning like reading a textbook or watching videos aren’t enough when it comes to becoming a dental assistant. Hands-on training at a good dental assistant college allows you to be right there in the action. You’ll be involved in the oral care process under the guidance of your supervising dentist and the dental assisting faculty. You’ll get to watch how a dentist educates patients, uses pit and fissures sealants, desensitizes and conducts radiographs, takes and develops x-rays and more. As you watch and learn, you’ll have the chance to apply what you’ve observed and improve on any mistakes you make during your training. 

Apply and retain what you learn during hands-on training

An Opportunity for a Personalized Learning Experience

When you learn through hands-on training, you’ll enjoy the added benefit of receiving one-on-one guidance and instruction from experienced dentists and dental faculty members. This is a valuable asset to take advantage of during your dental assistant training, since other forms of learning may not provide the same level of hands-on support. 

Enjoy a personalized learning experience during hands-on dental assistant training

As a dental assistant student, you’ll be in direct contact and work closely with your supervising dentist. You’ll get to ask questions, receive feedback and gain expert advice that you can take with you when you start your career. At the same time, personalized hands-on training may help you address any concerns, issues, or doubts that you have–as your supervising dentist and fellow students share their experiences with you. 

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Dental Assistant

Passionate About Oral Health? Why 2022 is a Great Time to Enrol in Dental Assistant College

January 07, 2022

The year 2022 is just around the corner. Now is the time to reflect on your future, including your studies and career goals. Having a fulfilling career provides you with the stability to pursue everything else you would like to achieve. For this reason, it’s noteworthy to consider becoming a dental assistant student as part of your new year goals. There are great prospects that await you in this profession, especially if you’re passionate about oral health.

At Medix College we provide aspiring dental assistants with the hands-on experience and professional partnerships that deliver a fulfilling career. We follow the dental industry closely to provide you with the latest skills and knowledge to succeed. Read on to learn why 2022 would be a great year to start your training as a dental assistant.

Professional Dental Assistants Are in Demand After Completing Dental Assistant Training

Aspiring dental assistants should not worry about their career prospects or job security within the dental industry; as long as there are individuals requiring dental services, then there will always be a need for professional dental assistants to help with the daily operations of the clinic. When you complete your dental assistant training at Medix College, you will graduate with the knowledge and expertise to provide chair support to dentists, prepare patients for dental examinations, maintain instruments and equipment, perform clerical duties, develop x-rays and much more.

Students will find that dental assistants are in high demand

Oral Health Is Linked to Overall Health

Research increasingly indicates that the health of the mouth and body are linked, with several oral related issues sharing a commonality with other chronic health issues. As more research is conducted linking oral health to the overall health of a person, there will always be demand for professional dental services and dental assistants. Individuals who neglect their oral health may develop gum disease and are twice as likely to develop health complications. For instance, gum disease is now being linked to heart disease, diabetes, respiratory disease, and rheumatoid arthritis. When you study at a dental assistant school like Medix College, you’ll be prepared to educate patients on their dental health and provide preventive dental services throughout your career.

Dental assistant school will prepare you to educate patients about their oral health

Growth Opportunity Within the Dental Industry

After you start your career as a dental assistant, you will be introduced to a fast-paced environment that will develop your skills, as no two days will be the same. You’ll find yourself involved in different aspects of the dentistry field, and with that, you’ll gain valuable insight into how to run a dental clinic. Finally, as you become an experienced dental assistant with knowledge of the intricate details of the industry, you will have the opportunity to develop your career aspirations. With the right training and education, you can pursue more senior positions, such as a dental office manager or dental hygienist.

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Dental Assistant

Tips for Crafting a Great Resume After Dental Assistant Training

September 03, 2021

If you’re just starting to think about starting your job search after completing your dental assistant training, creating a resume is probably one of the things on your mind. A great resume is the key to success when it comes to making it to the interview process–where an employer will be able to get to know you better as a candidate. Once you begin applying for jobs after graduating from a dental assistant program, you’ll be using your resume to show potential employers that you have the skills, qualifications, and experience necessary to be a successful addition to their dental practice. 

Below, discover some useful tips which will help your resume to stand out during your job search!

Include These Key Skills That Employers Look for in Graduates of Dental Assistant College

As a dental assistant, you’ll be responsible for completing a number of different duties within a dental office. From administrative tasks to assistance with dental procedures to medical history of intake, there are a few key skills–both hard and soft–that you’ll want to showcase in order to succeed as a dental assistant. After completing your dental assistant training, consider adding these skills to your resume:

Hard Skills:

  • Instrument sterilization
  • Patient education on oral health practices
  • Assistance with X-rays
  • Preparation of patients for dental procedures
  • Tableside assistance

Soft Skills:

  • Organization
  • Attention to detail
  • Communication skills
  • Multitasking capabilities

When you include these skills on your resume, employers will know that you have what it takes to get the job done.

Enhance your dental assistant resume by including the relevant skills you’ll build on the job

Mention Your Relevant Work Experience

If you’re just completing dental assistant college, you might be tempted to assume that you don’t have any relevant work experience to include on your resume. However, including previous work experience is almost always valuable in any resume, even if the job you had is different from the job you’re applying for. On your resume, you can include any work experience where the skills you built are relevant to your career as a dental assistant. 

For example, if you have volunteering experience, you might want to include it in your resume if your responsibilities demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively or organize a large volume of information. Even if you don’t have extensive experience in the dental field, a look through your job history should help you to identify different opportunities that helped you to build some of the same skills required of dental assistants.

Don’t forget to include all relevant work experience in your resume

Avoid these Common Mistakes

We’ve talked about the resume “do’s,” but it’s also worth touching on the resume “don’ts,” in order to ensure that you avoid making an unnecessary mistake which could cost you a career opportunity. For one, it’s important to always tailor your resume to the particular job you’re applying for. Instead of sending in the same resume to every job you come across, take a look at the job description to see if there are any particular skills or qualities that an employer is looking for in the dental assistant they hire. 

When you emphasize these particular qualities and skills throughout your resume, an employer will be more likely to view you as a good fit for the position. Another important mistake to avoid is forgetting to properly format your resume. Your resume should be clearly labeled by section in chronological order, with your contact information at the top, and should be no longer than one page.

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Dental Assistant

Attending Dental Assistant College? Ensure a Successful Career by Building These 4 Skills

August 06, 2021

Dental assistants work in close liaison with dentists to prepare and treat patients. During examinations and procedures, dental assistants may take X-rays, perform office management tasks, and educate patients on proper oral hygiene and care. The work of a dental assistant is dynamic and hands-on. They are responsible for ensuring the comfort and care of the patient, assisting with dental work, and maintaining the operational efficiency of the whole practice. 

As they perform a variety of tasks, it’s important to develop a broad and applicable skill set–from technical abilities to customer service skills. With the right skills to complement your practical training, you’ll be ready to take up positions in private dental offices, university clinics, dental supply companies, public health centres, educational institutions, and more! Let’s take a closer look at some key skills you’ll need for this type of work.

1. Technical Skills from Dental Assistant School

Although dental assistants work under the supervision of dentists, they must have a strong foundation in dental medicine in order to assist in both routine practices and complex dental procedures. Nowadays, most employers demand that dental assistants hold an official qualification along with relevant skills and extensive practical training. 

Dental assistant school at Medix College focuses on field-related skills and knowledge–with courses covering: general dental sciences, clinical dental assisting, preventive dental procedures, pharmacology, and emergencies. With professional training, graduates will be able to perform the technical duties of a dental assistant, including: taking and developing x-rays, sterilizing dental materials and instruments, and preparing exam rooms. 

Dental assistant college provides the technical training needed for a professional career

2. Some Administrative Skills Are Needed

Dental assistants are partly responsible for completing administrative tasks to ensure the efficiency and productivity of a dental practice. These tasks may include answering phones, scheduling appointments, maintaining patient records, and ordering supplies. This aspect of the job is much the same as other office roles, in which communication and basic computer skills are required. 

In the case of a dental office, strong time management and organization skills are essential–along with a working knowledge of common medical records systems and technology. Students in dental assistant college will hone their administrative skills in the context of a dental  practice–with programs focusing on reception and clerical duties, and scheduling and invoicing dental exams. 

Dental assistants need the skills to perform reception and clerical tasks in an office

3. Practice Attention to Detail

To ensure patient safety and comfort in a dental office, attention to detail is an important skill. A detail-oriented person will be able to concentrate on multiple tasks to ensure they are completed accurately and in accordance with strict protocols. When it comes to administrative duties, attention to detail will help dental assistants to record and maintain patient information with precision. In the exam room, a dental assistant should pay close attention to their patient to identify whether they are nervous or in pain. By developing a good eye, you can ensure that patients have a comfortable, efficient, and positive experience at a dental practice.

4. Work on Building Strong Communication Skills

Dental assistants are often one of the first points of contact for a patient during their appointment. They may be responsible for taking a patient’s medical history, breaking down complex procedures, and advising patients on proper oral care. Strong communication skills in these duties can help dental assistants to develop a positive and productive rapport with patients–gathering important information and evaluating their level of comfort. Not to mention, dental assistants also work in close collaboration with other dental professionals. The ability to follow instructions, communicate information, and provide feedback will prove to be a valuable asset when working in a professional team. With the relevant skill set, you can gain the trust of both your patients and your fellow co-workers. 

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Dental Assistant

5 Tips To Help Patients Prevent Gum Disease After Your Dental Assistant Training

May 14, 2021

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is one of the most common oral health problems. According to the Canadian Dental Association, seven out of ten Canadians will develop gum disease at some point during their lives. So what is gum disease, and how can it be prevented? 

Gum disease is caused by a buildup of bacteria between the gums and the teeth. The gums become inflamed as the bacteria in plaque grows. If left untreated, this inflammation can lead to the deterioration of the gums and bone structure within the mouth. Gum disease, while common, is preventable through the maintenance of good oral hygiene and a healthy lifestyle. If you’re considering a career as a dental assistant, read on to discover some tips you can pass on to patients–in order to prevent the development of gum disease and promote oral health.

1. Ensure Patients Brush and Floss to Control Plaque

Plaque carries bacteria, and the buildup of plaque can inflame the gums, eventually leading to gum disease. In order to remove plaque, patients must ensure that they are brushing and flossing regularly. Brushing for two to three minutes twice a day can prevent plaque from sticking to the teeth and remove food debris, but it’s important that patients brush along the gum line instead of scrubbing the gums directly. Direct contact with a toothbrush can cause the gums to recede instead of promoting healthy alignment with the teeth. 

Advise patients that brushing and flossing regularly is crucial in the prevention of gum disease

After completing your dental assistant training, you will also need to instruct patients to floss daily. Flossing removes plaque from places that a toothbrush can’t access, such as in between the teeth. By brushing and flossing regularly, patients can reduce their risk for developing gum disease and control the levels of plaque on their teeth.

2. Advise Patients to Eat a Healthy Diet

Our diet has a significant influence on the health of our gums. While starchy or sugary foods and beverages promote bacteria growth and lead to plaque buildup, other foods can boost immunity and prevent the development of gum disease. Patients should be sure to eat plenty of nutrients, minerals and vitamins in order to keep their gums healthy. Foods rich in Vitamin A, C, and E are especially important. Vitamin C has been shown to prevent and cure gum disease–with properties that prevent bleeding, receding, and swelling of the gums. Leafy greens and nuts contain Vitamin E, which can work to repair tissue damage. When eating a balanced and healthy diet full of fruits and vegetables, patients can improve their oral health and prevent gum disease.

A healthy diet of fruits and vegetables can reduce a patient’s risk of developing gum disease

3. It Is Important for Patients to Drink Plenty of Water

As you may learn in dental assistant school, drinking water increases the levels of saliva in the mouth. Saliva plays an important role in flushing out food debris and removing bacteria, both of which can lead to the infection of the gums. Simply by staying hydrated throughout the day, patients can enhance their oral health and ward off disease-causing bacteria.

4. Ensure Patients Know to Avoid Tobacco Products

Using tobacco products can lead to many health problems, including gum disease and oral cancer. Tobacco products play a leading role in deteriorating gum tissues, leaving patients more vulnerable to the development of gum disease. If a patient is a smoker, one of the simplest ways they can prevent gum disease is by cutting down on their tobacco intake or avoiding tobacco altogether. 

5. Help Patients Schedule Their Next Dental Visit

At a dental checkup, patients can not only have their teeth professionally cleaned, but dental professionals can examine them for any signs of gum disease. A professional cleaning is essential in removing additional plaque and debris in hard-to-reach places. Regular visits to the dentist also give patients an opportunity to catch gum disease and work to prevent it before it escalates. As a dental assistant, ensure that all patients are booked for regular appointments as a preventative measure against the development of gum disease.

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[Infographic] Qualities of a Top Dental Assistant

April 20, 2021

Dental assistants have rewarding careers where they are able to improve the lives of others. If you’re excited by the idea of making others look and feel good through dental care, dental assistant training might be the perfect fit. Dental assistants work in dental offices, clinics at universities, supply companies, and health centres, as well as other environments. Whatever your goals are, a dental assistant career can offer you exciting opportunities and success.

If you’re thinking about training or have begun a program, you may be wondering what makes a good dental assistant. What are the personal qualities and skills that enable success in the field? From the hands-on tasks that dental assistants perform daily to the frequent interaction with different kinds of people, many qualities you likely already have can come in handy. Read on to learn more about what you can expect to help you as a dental assistant!

Qualities of a Top Dental Assistant

People Skills

  • Helps make people feel more comfortable and safe
  • Emotional sensitivity helps when people have pain or discomfort
  • Being friendly helps clients have a better experience
  • Conflict resolution and a calm approach improves interactions

Cooperation

  • Essential for working with teams
  • Helps the whole dental office provide excellent service
  • Great for networking

Fun fact: Some of the most effective teams are made up of a combination of differences and like-mindedness. Diverse groups working towards common goals make for great teams!

Communication

  • Understanding instructions
  • Communicating efficiently with coworkers
  • Listening to clients’ concerns
  • Giving good feedback
  • Asking questions to learn more

Dexterity

  • Ability to work safely and accurately in tight spaces
  • Competence with small tools and instruments
  • Accuracy when using hand-eye coordination

Attention to Detail

  • know the signs of an emergency
  • Protocols must be followed strictly
  • A proactive, observant attitude must be taken to ensure safety
  • Sterilization and sanitation are extremely important

Organized

  • Organized people are ready for unexpected events
  • Multi-tasking is easier when organized
  • Keeping tools and equipment in order helps things run smoothly

Sources:

https://www.daymarcollege.edu/blog/8-skills-make-good-dental-assistant

https://www.psychologytoday.com/ca/blog/cutting-edge-leadership/201402/five-surprising-facts-about-teams-and-teamwork

https://www.thebalancecareers.com/list-of-dental-assistant-skills-2062342

https://streamdentalhr.com/tag/organization-skills/

https://www.childrensdentalvillage.net/patient/resources/interesting-facts/

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