Dental assistant jobs require training to learn the skills needed for a long-term career in dentistry. These range from communicating with patients to assisting with procedures to completing administrative duties. The Praxis Institute offers a comprehensive Dental Assistant program at our locations in Hialeah and Miami, Florida, covering crucial topics for dental assisting. Here, we discuss the skills needed to complete dental assistant job duties.
Core Competencies Required for Dental Assistants
Dental assistants are professionals who help dentists complete their duties. Some of their tasks include coordinating dental appointments and updating patient records, including procedure information and appointment notes. Dental assistants are also responsible for aiding dentists with procedures or routine appointments. They need several vital skills to do these tasks effectively, including:
Ability to Multitask
Multitasking is a crucial part of working as a dental assistant, as these professionals need to manage several tasks simultaneously. They may need to prepare and sterilize instruments while interacting with the patient and recording patient information. Therefore, dental assistants should be able to handle doing many things at once.
Strong Communication
Dental assistants communicate frequently with patients, so effective communication is important to convey their messages. They should be able to maintain a friendly and reassuring demeanor while doing so to keep their patients comfortable. Dental assistants also need to interact with dentists and other professionals, so strong communication is vital to keep their workplace operating smoothly.
Attention to Detail
Attention to detail is paramount for any dental assistant to avoid errors that could impact patient care. Precision and carefulness are part of attention to detail, as are:
- Paying attention to whether the patient is nervous or in pain
- Recording patient details and updating history
- Confirming proper sterilization and storage of dental equipment and materials
- Following safety protocols for disinfecting surfaces and using personal protective equipment (PPE)
- Maintaining radiation safety during dental X-rays
Technical Skills
Operation of dental technology, such as how to use dental chairs, X-ray machines, and sterilization devices, is also part of the technical skills for a dental assistant. Dental assistants should be updated on the latest practices and technologies to ensure the best patient care.
Understanding Dental Medicine and Procedures
Dental assistants need to have a basic understanding of dental medicine, as they may need to prepare materials for impressions and fillings, process X-rays, sterilize instruments, or suction during procedures. They should be able to predict the sequences of tasks involved in dental procedures, so they know what to do next without direction from the dentist.
Skills Gained Through Training at The Praxis Institute
Training at The Praxis Institute equips potential dental assistant students with a set of skills for their future roles in dental healthcare. It is led by knowledgeable teaching staff with real-world experience in the industry. When attending our program, students are taught:
Time Management Skills
The training at The Praxis Institute helps dental assistants build time management skills. This often includes coordinating patient workflow and appointment schedules to efficiently streamline operations and ensure minimal wait times. Additionally, students are taught how to prioritize tasks effectively, ensuring their responsibilities are handled promptly.
Administrative Skills
Students in our program are also instructed on how to perform clerical and administrative duties properly. Topics covered include:
- Scheduling appointments
- Providing front desk services
- Communicating with patients and colleagues
- Managing finances
- Using business operating systems
Dental Techniques and Technical Skills
Our program provides an overview of various dental procedures, such as fillings, treating cavities, taking X-rays, and treating root canals. It also includes courses like:
- Introduction to Dental Assisting: Students study general anatomy and Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations about sterilization and infection control. They also cover dental charting, anesthesiology, and pharmacology.
- Dental Chairside Assisting: This covers dental terminology and using tools and restorative materials. Students also become familiar with endodontics, periodontics, and oral surgery.
- Dental Laboratory: Training includes using materials to create impressions and working with bleaching trays, temporary bridges, and crowns.
The Dental Assistant program at The Praxis Institute provides hands-on training to prepare students for their roles. We offer the opportunity to complete dental externships, which require 120 hours of practical experience in a dental office. During these externships, students work alongside experienced instructors to learn how to apply their skills in a clinical environment and gain valuable insights into daily practice.
Begin Your Journey Toward a Fulfilling Dental Assistant Career
If you’re considering a dental assistant career, apply to the Dental Assistant program at The Praxis Institute. We offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, career services, and weekly enrollment options for diploma programs. We also provide financial aid for qualified students. Contact us to learn more about dental assistant job duties in Hialeah and Miami, FL.
