Anyone who has been a dental assistant for any length of time is likely to tell you how rewarding their job is. Although it takes a special person to provide exceptional care to their patients, there is something incredibly satisfying with helping others.
With that said, the life of a dental assistant often has challenges. If you are considering entering the dental industry, you will find the following information to be very beneficial.
We’re about to share some important insight into the world of a dental assistant. This will help you better determine if you are up for the challenge ahead.
Dealing With No-Shows
No patient is alike, and dental assistants have to learn how to handle everyone equally and fairly. This can be a challenge when you’re confronted with someone rude or difficult to work with.
But things get even more challenging when patients decide to no-show their appointments. Seasoned dental assistants have found that they simply need to stay on top of patients like this.
After working at a dental practice for so long, you will learn which patients need a little “extra attention”.
Overcoming No-Shows
In order to reduce the likelihood of a patient skipping out on their appointment, you will need to remind them often. Sure, this takes a little more time out of your day, but a patient is more likely to show up if you keep in contact with them.
Providing Support to Fearful Patients
Let’s be clear. Some dental appointments are no picnic. Depending on the treatment a patient needs, they may be in for a challenging time themselves.
As such, a good dental assistant should be ready to provide support to that patient and walk them through their care every step of the way.
How to Help
The best dental assistants have found that they can greatly reduce a patient’s fears by thoroughly explaining the care they are about to receive. By telling them how beneficial it will be to them, the patient is more likely to handle the treatment or procedure well.
Pain and Stress
Sometimes, the two are closely related to one another. A dental assistant regularly deals with aches and pain, as well as stress. After all, they are on their feet most of the day. On top of that, they have to learn how to take on the stress of others in order to care for their patients.
Working It Out
Both pain and stress can be better handled by taking frequent breaks when either is at its peak. It’s also important to take the time to develop an action plan for overcoming the daily stressors that come from working as a dental assistant.
You may need to talk to someone in your office to help you when you’re feeling overwhelmed. If you work with a great team of people, this will be easier to accomplish.
If not, you may want to consider looking for a dental practice that better supports one another. A great place to start is Stynt!
When you sign up, you will be connected to dental practices that are looking for your talents and will appreciate your hard work. To get started, all you have to do is fill out our form or download our app!