Knowledge and work experience are two vital prerequisites for building a successful career. But, these are not the only ones. A culmination of soft and hard skills goes a long way in delivering excellent performance at work. Similarly, for dental assistants, having basic dental knowledge and experience is essential; however, honing specific other skills can give a significant boost to their career trajectory. Here are seven such skills that all dental assistants must master.
Organizational skills
Being organized is an essential skill for every dental assistant. On most days, they are expected to hand over necessary tools to the dental hygienist or dentist, be thorough with the patient’s history and other information, keep the documents filed and in order, and manage appointments and patient satisfaction. Such tasks require them to be highly organized, both physically and mentally. Dental assistants may also be asked to keep the workstations clean and clutter-free while simultaneously managing the incoming onslaught of patients. So, time management plays a vital role, and it can help stay organized throughout the day to get work done efficiently.
Administrative skills
Several administrative tasks find their way onto the shoulders of a dental assistant. These include filling forms, performing secretarial duties, updating patient records, handling billing, processing payments, and looking into insurance claim procedures. They are expected to perform these tasks while simultaneously assisting the dentist or dental hygienist in treating patients. This means the assistants must be quick and efficient to complete these tasks without disrupting the day’s schedule. Additionally, they must perform specific jobs, like updating patient records confidentially, since patient information is private.
Basic computer skills
Of the many tasks entrusted to dental assistants, some require to be done using a computer. These include generating bills and receipts, handling insurance paperwork, filling forms, and updating patient records. So, having basic knowledge about different programs and services on the computer is an advantage. Besides the tasks mentioned, assistants may also need to type letters or send emails to patients, suppliers, or others. Further, organizing and managing the dentist’s or dental hygienist’s calendar could be on their to-do list, which would also require basic proficiency with computers.
Dexterity
Working as a dental assistant involves helping the dentist with complex oral treatments. A few procedures may require the assistant to use specialized instruments like dental trays, mouth mirrors, and suction hoses with precision. Therefore, they must have excellent dexterity. The fact that their hands work on a small and packed part of the body shows how vital this skill is. While dexterity allows them to handle instruments carefully, the control over their hands will also help when performing checkups. Further, dexterity is an additional benefit in administrative tasks like typing.
Detail-oriented
Dental assistants must follow various protocols and rules regarding health hygiene when assisting dentists during treatments. These protocols keep them from making mistakes that can lead to complications and put patients at risk. Therefore, dental assistants must pay attention to minute details and follow the protocols. The need for detailed attention also arises when dealing with insurance paperwork and filing bills. Going wrong in either can lead to back-and-forth, not to mention the inconvenience to patients. Being detail-oriented helps dental assistants efficiently multitask and avoid making mistakes.
Interpersonal skills
Dental assistants spend most of their time surrounded by dentists, patients, dealers, etc. At times, they are required to interact with such individuals every minute of their working day. This means dental assistants must have excellent communication and interpersonal skills. They must get along with their employers, the insurance company, patients, and those they come in contact with for work-related queries. Further, they should be sensitive towards patients as they could be in extreme pain. Efficient communication will ensure things flow smoothly and there are no delays.
Listening skills
As a dental assistant, being a good listener goes beyond just being attentive when the dentist asks for a different tool. It includes listening to both the dentist and the patient. As good listeners, dental assistants must make their patients feel comfortable and spot anything they might have failed to mention. In addition, they have to constantly be in touch with patients—listening to their feedback, making a note of it, and endeavoring to improve upon any shortcomings. It may also include listening to other healthcare professionals and representatives.
Working in the field of dentistry can be challenging, but acquiring the skills discussed here can help one progress in their career. Getting these right can take time, but it is the only way to become a successful dental assistant.
