The world has rapidly changed over the last few decades. The advent of technology has made our lives easier. At the same time, it made us realize we direly need more health assistance. Health assistants are not just doctors and nurses. The allied health professionals include dental assistants, nutritionists, and dental hygienists.
They aim to provide patients with diagnostic, preventive, and evaluative clinical and medical support. They are our health protection shield. Of the many health-assisting vocations introduced to us, dental assisting tops the list.
Dental assistants have the prospect of learning on the job. Their healthcare advantages are characteristically above average. The assistants discover professional contentment every day by helping others. Assistants also have better job security. Dental assistants continue to be in high demand as we see the rise in the number of dental assistant schools in California.
Do You Need a Dental School to be a Dental Assistant?
Many might wonder if enrolling in dental school is worth it or not. Undoubtedly, you learn a lot about dental assisting when you work professionally. But it is essential to consider a school, given you clearly understand the job at hand. Dental assistants work closely with the dental hygienists and directly under the dentists. To match the pace of a professional setting, enrolling in a dental assistant training school to acquire vital skills is essential.
A dental assistant has to perform several tasks, from making notes of a patient’s medical history to measuring blood pressure and pulse before any dental care procedure, explaining the procedure, and guiding them about post-procedure oral care. Several assistants are also certified to help dentists during a procedure. So, sound knowledge about the instruments is also mandatory. This is why proper schooling is irreplaceable.
Dental Assistant vs Registered Dental Assistant
Two distinct types of assistants work for dentists: dental and registered dental assistants (RDAs). The critical difference between an RDA and a dental assistant is broadly based on their duties. An RDA (registered dental assistant) carries out more significant tasks than a dental assistant.
You become an RDA after completing your certification course from a dental school. You can also register as a dental assistant by joining institutions like MDS Dental Assisting Academy, which offers RDA programs. Though being a certified dental assistant is unnecessary, it enhances your career. Dental assistants are an essential part of dentistry teams. They focus on the clinical and administrative aspects, ensuring a proper balance for proper functioning.
Growth and Career Goals
To get accepted into any of California’s reputed dental assistant schools, you only need a high school diploma. Once you complete the course, you can continue your career working as a dental assistant. You also can qualify as a dental office manager. In the beginning, you start working as a dental assistant, learning the methods and tools of the practice to reach the top.
You can also opt to work but return to school simultaneously to become a dental hygienist. For that, you require an associate degree and need to earn your license. No matter which direction you choose in the end, the career of a dental assistant gives you an array of choices and options for a better professional life.
If you aim to serve people and improve their lives, you may consider being a dental assistant. If you’re great with your equipment and instruments, happy to arrange appointments, and relish meeting new people, this career in the oral field is yours to choose.
You learn a great deal in the course. Your training includes medical screening, dental radiology, placing temporary crowns, and treatment planning. A dental assistant’s job is as vital as a dentist or oral hygienist.
Primary Roles Of Dental Assistant
After the completion of your course, the primary tasks that you need to perform as a dental assistant are as follows:
- Study and prepare a medical history chart of the patient
- Ensure that patients are comfortable
- Prepare the patients through the procedure
- Sterilize dental instruments for the procedure
- Assist the dentists during procedures like drying the patient’s mouth using suction hoses and other equipment
- Under the supervision and guidance of the dentist, process X-rays and perform other lab tasks
- Guide patients in proper oral hygiene
- Schedule patient appointments and check up on them
- Take an active part in billing and payments of the patients
So, if you are still confused about enrolling in a dental school, you should not delay further. Many institutions offer dental assistant certification courses that you must not miss. So, grab the opportunity to serve people and have your dream job.
Summary: The decision to enroll in a dental school is often clouded with judgments. This article highlights the importance and benefits of dental assistant jobs and the perks of dental school certification.
