Cross-training dental assistants: benefits & expanded career options

This article is contributed by the American Association of Dental Office Management.

Dental assistants play a critical role in the daily operations of every dental practice. They are responsible for ensuring that patients are comfortable during procedures, assisting dentists with various tasks, and managing the overall workflow of the clinic. However, the role is constantly evolving, and today’s dental practices require assistants who are highly skilled, versatile, and adaptable. This is where cross-training comes in.

Cross-training is a process in which dental assistants are taught new skills and responsibilities beyond their traditional chairside duties. By doing so, they become more valuable to the practice and equipped to handle a wider range of tasks. Expanded functions and professional training are beneficial to both the practice and the dental assistant’s career.

Boosting practice productivity

From a practice perspective, cross-training can significantly improve efficiency and productivity. When dental assistants can handle a broader range of tasks, it frees up the dentist’s time to focus on more complex procedures. Additionally, cross-trained dental assistants can fill gaps in the schedule when other staff members are unavailable, ensuring that patients receive the care they need without any disruption in service.

Cross-training also helps ensure the clinic is fully staffed in the event of unexpected absences or emergencies. When dental assistants are cross-trained in multiple areas of the practice, including office operations, they can quickly step in and cover for other team members as needed. This helps maintain the continuity of care for patients and ensures the practice runs smoothly even in the face of unforeseen circumstances.

Career advancement opportunities

From a career perspective, cross-training as a dental assistant is highly valuable. Having a wider range of tasks and responsibilities can help assistants take on new challenges and grow their skills, leading to increased job satisfaction.

Cross-training can also provide opportunities for career advancement. As assistants become more skilled and proficient in different areas of the practice, they may be considered for higher-level roles or additional responsibilities. This can lead to increased pay and more job security, as cross-trained dental assistants are often seen as invaluable members of the team.

Overall, expanded skills are a win-win for both practice and dental assistant. By empowering assistants with new skills and responsibilities, practices can become more efficient and productive, while assistants can grow their careers and take on new challenges. At the same time, patients benefit from the increased capabilities of cross-trained dental staff and receive the highest-quality services possible.

How to cross-train effectively

It’s important to note that cross-training should be done strategically and with purpose. Dentists, office managers, and existing staff should identify areas of the practice where continued learning can have the most impact and work with the team to develop a training plan. This can involve on-the-job training, continuing education courses, certifications, and other forms of professional development.

Ultimately, cross-training is a key component of a successful business — one that should be embraced by all practices looking to improve their operations and provide the highest level of care to their patients. By investing in the professional development of dental assistants, practices can create a more efficient, productive, and adaptable workforce while supporting their staff’s career goals.

About the Author

Sharon Boyd, RDH, M.A., has over 20 years of experience in the dental industry and is founder of DentaSpeak, LLC. In addition to being a registered dental hygienist, she serves as a full-time patient education professional, with special interest in strategic dental communications. She often works as a liaison between practitioners and patients, bridging the gap between care needs and patient concerns. Sharon is an Ironman triathlete and a band mom, and enjoys volunteering at her family’s church.