Admiring all that dental assistants do

From the outside, a dental practice can look like a well-oiled machine — but a lot of work goes on behind the scenes to run an efficient, successful practice. And the versatility, dedication, and hard work of dental assistants make it possible.

Simply put, dental assistants do it all.

For everything they do, dental assistants deserve to be respected and celebrated. Dental Assistants Recognition Week (DARW), held this year from March 2–8, is a time to put these important dental professionals in the spotlight and raise awareness about their importance.

“Dental assistants do so much — they deserve a full week to know they are seen and are appreciated in their offices,” believes Malika Shabazz, CDA.

DARW is especially important since dental assistants don’t always feel valued. For many, just hearing that their efforts are seen and appreciated can boost their morale.

“Dental Assistants Recognition Week is important because it recognizes the hard work, dedication, and vital role dental assistants play in patient care and the overall success of the dental office,” says Pamela Rodriguez. “It’s a time to celebrate their contributions and show appreciation for their commitment.”

Ultimately, when a practice develops a culture of employee recognition, it elevates the entire dental team and helps them work cohesively to provide excellent patient care.

“I think it’s important that any and all areas of the practice have their day or week in the spotlight,” shares Darlene Corsiglia, CDA. “Everyone plays a crucial part as a team to have a great office!”

Supporting the entire office

Everyone in the practice relies on dental assistants to some extent. Dental assistants work hard, often behind the scenes, to ensure their teammates have the support they need, each appointment goes smoothly, and the schedule stays on track.

“Dental assistants are so crucial to the office because without us, there would be no flow — there would be chaos,” says Emily Mueller, CDA. “As a dental assistant, I am doing a lot and I love it. We are needed! Dentists can’t do it all on their own, especially on a busy day.”

Karla Wright, CDA, agrees: “Dental assistants help keep the flow of the office steady. With an efficient, knowledgeable, and organized assistant, the doctor can concentrate on chairside treatment and the business of running a practice.”

The dentist isn’t the only one who benefits from the hard work of dental assistants, however. Every member of the team relies on dental assistants in multiple ways.

“I can always count on a dental assistant when I need equipment, a personal assistant for a complex case, or help with staying on time,” says Donna Murray, CDIPC, RDH. “They keep the office running smoothly and safely. In my office, the dental assistants are always willing to step in with a smile.”

From stepping in to help hygienists prepare exam rooms or set up trays to coordinating the schedule with the front office, dental assistants work with everyone in the practice to maintain productivity and efficiency.

“They are the ones that let the front office know the next step. We would be lost without them,” says dental office manager Pam Scheffler, CDA.

“A great dental assistant can make everyone’s job easier with attention to detail, hard work, dedication, multitasking, and keeping everyone on time,” adds Sara Cole, CDA.

Wearing many different hats

While it may seem like hyperbole to say dental assistants “do it all,” it’s not far from the truth. According to DANB’s Job Analysis Report, dental assistants perform over 200 essential duties that are crucial for delivering effective dental care.

Among the tasks dental assistants juggle are administrative and general office duties, infection prevention and control, radiography, and chairside duties. And that’s just the tip of the iceberg.

Depending on their training, education, credentials, and allowable duties in their state, dental assistants can also perform specialized functions — from taking impressions and monitoring nitrous oxide to working on restorative, preventive, orthodontic, endodontic, prosthodontic, periodontic, cosmetic, or oral surgery procedures.

“Most of us are cross-trained in every aspect of the dental office,” explains Fayann Bachand, CDA. “Today I could be assisting the dentist or hygienist, but tomorrow I could be doing administrative work at the front desk.”

Managing so many tasks requires extensive training and a commitment to lifelong learning. Dental assistants put significant effort into mastering their craft, with many pursuing continuing education and professional credentials to obtain more clinical knowledge and stay on the cutting edge of developments in dentistry and patient care.

This commitment to the profession can also open leadership opportunities. For example, according to DANB’s Dental Assistants Salary and Satisfaction Survey, nearly three out of four dental assistants are responsible for training new colleagues. Additionally, dental assistants can serve as team leads, infection control coordinators, or expanded functions dental assistants in their practices. Some dental assistants even go on to become office managers, educators, hygienists, or dentists.

“This profession never gets old and I’m forever learning,” shares Tanya Terry, CDA. “I am grateful that I chose to be a Certified Dental Assistant!”

Providing quality patient care

Many dental assistants are drawn to the profession due to the wide range of duties they can perform and the career growth opportunities available. But dental assistants need more than just clinical knowledge. They also need to have strong people skills and a passion for helping others. For many dental assistants, taking care of patients is a primary source of motivation.

“What I love most about being a dental assistant is that I get to serve,” explains Brittany Epps. “It’s not just about helping with procedures or maintaining a clean workspace — it’s about creating a positive experience for each patient.”

Patients are often with dental assistants from the time they enter the office until the time they leave. Naturally, bonds form over time as dental assistants gain trust and build rapport with their patients. Dental assistants not only comfort patients and answer their questions, but they also oversee life-changing, confidence-boosting smile transformations.

Having such an impact on others is what makes dental assisting a highly rewarding career for many.

“What motivates me in the dental field is knowing that I have the opportunity to make a real difference in people’s lives,” says Epps. “Oral health is such an important part of overall well-being, and I get to help patients take steps toward better health and confidence every day. Seeing someone smile brighter because they feel cared for and supported, or helping someone overcome their fear of the dentist, gives me a sense of purpose.”