Many people want to work in the dental field but don't have the time and resources to pursue a dentistry degree right away. If you're one of these people, one of the best things you can do is to become a dental assistant. By doing this, you'll achieve your dream of becoming a part of the dental team and helping patients who need oral care services.
Duties and Responsibilities
As a dental assistant, you will be responsible for scheduling appointments, answering patients' basic inquiries on the phone or through e-mail, and ensuring patients' records are properly maintained. You will also need to assist dentists during treatment procedures by handing him the right tools, handling suction devices and other equipment, and taking other …show more content…
Some states do not require dental assistants to enroll in and finish an academic program but, even if this is the case in your state, remember that you'll have a sharper competitive edge and better employment opportunities if you have a degree under your belt.
The first thing you should do is to decide what degree level you'd like to obtain. There are lots of online dental assistant certificate programs and online dental assistant diploma programs available nowadays, so it's up to you to choose one that best suits your needs and preferences. You can also opt for an online dental assistant associate degree if you want to learn more about dental health concepts while having more opportunities for hands-on training.
No matter what program you'll choose, though, do your research and make sure it's accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation. This way, you have the assurance that you're making a sound investment and that your certificate, diploma, or associate degree will be recognized by the American Dental Association as well as your future