Are you ready to dive into the vast, mystical realm of dental assisting? While this complex and changing environment may seem more like a fantasy novel at times, we can assure you- it’s fantastic! Dental assisting comes with a silver platter full of exciting and challenging situations. At Sanger Education in Waco, Texas, we offer a personalized way for anyone interested in this rewarding and exciting career path. We’ll prepare you for the challenges ahead and celebrate your triumphs. Let’s jump into the pool’s deep end and explore why dental assisting might be the best career choice ever.
Pros of Becoming a Dental Assistant:
Becoming a dental assistant is a one-way road to success, fulfilling work, higher education, and competitive pay. Let’s discuss the wide variety of benefits that come from being a dental assistant:
- Job Security. Dental assistants are in high demand, and the need continues to grow. With an aging population and increased emphasis on preventative dental care, dental assistants have a bright and exciting future.
- Work Flexibility. Dental assistant positions can offer flexible work schedules and part-time options, making it an ideal profession for individuals who need to balance work with family obligations or other responsibilities.
- Continuing Education. Many dental practices offer continuing education opportunities, allowing dental assistants to advance their skills and knowledge. As a dental assistant, there is always room for growth and learning.
- Work Variety. No two days are the same in the life of a dental assistant! From assisting with patient care to handling administrative tasks, the life of a dental assistant is never bland.
- Help Others. Dental assistants help others daily. Whether cleaning teeth, treating cavities, or educating patients on proper oral hygiene, dental assistants play a crucial role in maintaining good oral health.
- Team Environment. The ability to work closely with colleagues and develop strong professional relationships can make for a rewarding and enjoyable work environment. Dental practices function as a team, and dental assistants play an integral role in this dynamic.
Cons of Becoming a Dental Assistant:
While becoming a dental assistant is a rewarding and life-changing path, there are a few things to remember:
- Physically Demanding. Dental assisting can be physically demanding, requiring standing for long periods and repetitive motions such as bending and reaching.
- Emotionally Taxing. Working with patients who may be anxious, fearful, or in pain can become emotionally taxing. Remember: dentistry is a medical field and can come with emergencies, long hours, and intensive treatments.
- Repetitive Tasks. While some may find joy and comfort in perfecting the same treatments repeatedly, it can occasionally become repetitive to others. Specific tasks, such as sterilization, cleaning, and charting, may become redundant and mundane over time.
- Unpredictable Workload. Dental assistant duties can be inconsistent, with unexpected patient emergencies and scheduling changes.
- Busy Work Environment. Dental practices can be fast-paced and dynamic, with multiple patients and tasks to manage simultaneously. With so many treatments, steps, and processes to remember, it can occasionally feel like a dental circus.
Why is Dental Assisting a Good Career Choice?
While being a dental assistant has its challenges and drawbacks, the numerous benefits of this career make it a fulfilling and rewarding life path. Whether you’re drawn to the opportunity to help others, the chance to learn new skills, make friends, or create a positive impact, becoming a dental assistant can be a meaningful and enjoyable experience.
If you’re looking for a challenging and rewarding career, being a dental assistant might be for you! At Sanger Education, our dental assisting program in Waco, TX, focuses on hands-on training and real-world experience to prepare the next wave of dental assistants nationwide. If you’re willing to put in the time and effort, you’ll find yourself on a richly rewarding journey.
Contact us and learn about our various programs today!