How to Get Hired as a Dental Assistant: Tips & Tricks
Today, most people understand that some additional training and education is necessary before entering the job market, but it can still be a big challenge to decide which field to choose and where to get the necessary training. If you enjoy working with people and care about helping them improve their health and self-confidence, the dental assisting field may be worth your consideration.
Here are some tips you can use that may help you get hired in the dental assisting industry:
Get Your Education in Dental Assisting
Few vocations provide on-the-job training anymore, and the dental assisting industry is no exception. When you are ready to get the education and training you need for a good future, you should turn to a school that offers the flexible schedules that allow you to complete your continuing education even if you are also working another job. Some of the things you can learn in dental assisting school include facts about the anatomy of the teeth, jaw and gums; how to sterilize common dental equipment; and how to polish teeth and apply topical treatments such as sealants and fluoride. Because many dental assistants also help in the dental lab, they may also learn how to prepare temporary crowns or make casts of teeth.
Become a Registered Dental Assistant
Dental assisting is a profession that demands the highest levels of professionalism. For that reason, many states require dental assistants to earn and maintain licensing. Having state licensure, such as the Registered Dental Assistant designation, is very important when you are looking to get hired as a dental assistant.
Volunteer Experience
You may already be familiar with the saying, "you can't get hired without experience, but you can't get experience without getting hired." If you’re looking to break into a new field, this frustrating dilemma can definitely make it very challenging to get a job!
When dental assisting is the job field you want to work in, but you can't seem to get anyone to hire you despite the fact that you have the necessary education and even licensing, consider offering your services through a temporary agency specifically for the dental industry, or even as a volunteer. Many dental practices will gratefully accept the help of a volunteer dental assistant, which would keep your skills up-to-date and even give you some valuable network connections for later.
Many charities also work to provide dental care to needy citizens, and volunteering as a dental assistant for such an effort can provide a feeling of satisfaction and reward in addition to some work experience. As part of its Dental Assisting program, ECPI University requires students to participate in clinical rotations which provides real-world experience and oftentimes provides opportunities for students to volunteer at indigent care events.
Networking is Essential
Getting a job is not just about what you know, but also about who you know. Although every town has a sizable number of dentists, the industry still has kind of a small town feel. Get to know the other dental professionals in your community so you can be top-of-mind as someone who is seeking a job. Consider joining local professional societies and check online groups where you can network with others in the dental industry.
With a little bit of preparation and education, you can join the exciting and rewarding dental assisting industry. Your work will be essential in helping people have confident smiles and better health.
Get a Running Start
If you’re interested in working toward a degree in dental assisting, contact ECPI University TODAY to learn more about earning your Associate’s Degree in Dental Assisting! You could earn your degree in as little as 15 months through our accelerated, year-round program! It could be the Best Decision You Ever Make!
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