Many people decide that they would like to enter into the dentistry field but don’t want to spend the time and money to become a full-blown dentist. Luckily for them, the Dental assistant role gets you in the action and can be an incredibly rewarding position.
However, there are some essential questions you need to ask yourself before you consider becoming a dental assistant.
What is a Dental Assistant?
In the most basic terms, a dental assistant is someone who helps out in a dental practice by performing minor procedures and helping a dental hygienist or orthodontist with their work. Becoming a dental assistant requires completing a course through an accredited institution, so it is not as rigorous as becoming a fully licensed dentist.
Ask the Right Questions
Why Do I Want To Pursue This Role?
Knowing your why should be a question you ask before embarking on any new career path, the role of a dental assistant can be tough and you need to make sure you really understand what it is you hope to get out of the job.
If you can answer why you want to pursue the path and are set on it, then it is likely the way to go.
Do I Have The Right Mindset for This Role?
It takes a certain type of thinking pattern to really succeed as a dental assistant. You need to be ok with constantly changing work environments and need to be flexible in how you work.
Making sure you can think with the right mindset and work effectively under pressure will help you understand if this is a role worth pursuing.
Is This The Right Time To Change Careers?
It may seem fun to try out a new career path, but you need to make sure you are doing it at the right time. If you need some stability or are heavily invested at a current job, it may be worth waiting for a better time before making a drastic career shift.
Think about the advantages of leaving your current job and the advantages of becoming a dental assistant and start to see how soon you want to move on.
Where Can I Go After I Become A Dental Assistant?
Within the dental world, there are many directions you can go once you have a foot in the door. You can use your assistant certification to specialize in certain areas and even become a full-on dentist with the additional learning. Investigate the general dental assistant field and make sure there are options down the line for you to grow and take on more responsibility.
Conclusion
Becoming a dental assistant is something many dream about and really enjoy. If you can answer all these questions and really feel like it is the right field for you, we say go and follow your dreams. Fill out our form or download our app to join Stynt!