3 things that caring dental assistants do
Dental assistants possess many admirable qualities that make them so skilled at what they do. It’s why they deserve to be celebrated during Dental Assistants Recognition Week and beyond! Two of the most important traits dental assistants rely on every day are compassion and empathy. In other words, dental assistants care — and it’s part of what makes them so important to their practices.
Here are a few ways those important characteristics shine through in a dental assistant’s work.
Putting patient comfort first
Many dental assistants enter the profession — and stay in it for many years afterward — because of their desire to help people. For some patients, visiting the dentist is intimidating. Dental assistants are adept at determining when patients are feeling anxious or uncomfortable and knowing how to alleviate those fears. From explaining a procedure in simple terms and answering a patient’s questions to holding their hand, dental assistants lead with empathy during every appointment.
“They are often the first person patients interact with, offering a friendly smile and reassurance that helps ease anxiety,” explains Maria.
“Whether it’s explaining a procedure in a way patients understand, offering a kind word, or just being present to listen, those small, human connections remind me why I do what I do,” shares Brittany.
In some cases, dental assistants get to be with patients during a huge moment in their lives. A person’s smile can drive their confidence. And dental assistants get to play a pivotal role in transforming smiles and boosting their patients’ confidence.
“What I love most about being a dental assistant is helping patients overcome their dental fears and making them feel at ease, especially during complicated procedures,” says Ana. “It’s incredibly rewarding to be part of a team that transforms anxious moments into positive experiences while contributing to their oral health and confidence.”
Being there for the whole team
There’s something special about being a part of a dental team. Everyone in the office plays a part in keeping the schedule on track and providing the best patient care. And dental assistants are always willing to step in and help their teammates when needed, whether it’s setting up an exam room, restocking supplies, answering calls, taking x-rays, or updating patient charts.
“The assistant has to be everywhere all at once — in the lab, at the front desk, in the operatory and in sterilization,” says Leeann. “They are the one person who knows all the jobs. They can make appointments when the front desk is busy, they can seat the hygiene patients and take x-rays for a busy hygienist, they can clear a clogged line and replace bulbs. They are flexible and always willing to step in and help the team.”
This team-first spirit makes dental assistants indispensable to their practices.
“At all the offices I have worked in, the assistants have all been team players, picking up the slack where needed and going the extra mile,” says Jaime.
Being committed to learning
In dental assisting, there are always new things to learn. After all, every day is different in the dental office.
“Every day is a chance to grow, learn, and refine my skills as the field evolves,” says Brittany.
To perform to the best of their abilities for their patients and teammates, dental assistants are committed to staying on top of new developments, technology, and techniques in the profession. They may seek out advice from other dental assistants, attend seminars and conferences, or pursue continuing education and certifications — often outside of regular work hours. This commitment allows them to perform more functions in the office, apply new approaches to patient care, and be the most valuable resource they can be to the practice.
“Thank you to the many assistants who have helped me learn to be a better assistant over the years,” says Jessica. “Be it through YouTube videos, CE courses, or coworkers who just jump in and help when I’m struggling to stay afloat during a chaotic day. You are one of the biggest reasons why I still love my job today!”