What Makes a Good Dental Assistant?

When people are made for a job, their skills become habits.

From welcoming patients through the door to conducting x-rays and disinfecting equipment, a Dental Assistant’s responsibility to ensure patient satisfaction brings with it a certain set of skills – which the best embody without a second thought.

So, what are some of the best habits of highly effective Dental Assistants?

Having a good chairside manner

As a Dental Assistant is the critical link between the patient and the Dentist, the ability to comfort and assist patients in a professional chairside manner is essential. 

Making the patient comfortable, verifying any medical history and using non-verbal communication with the Dentist in the presence of a patient to maintain a calm and professional environment are all habits embodied by an effective Dental Assistant.

Engaging in honest communication

Being able to openly and honestly communicate with both patients and co-workers is an important part of working in the health industry. Being as warm and welcoming as you are genuine and professional creates a strong connection of trust between you and the patient.

Showing compassion and empathy

As going to the Dentist can be a daunting experience for many, caring about how people feel and seeking to make them feel at ease is an important skill for a Dental Assistant to hone. Complement your kind and understanding approach to any concerns a patient may have with detailed explanations. The more you can inform patients about a practice or procedure, the more at ease they will feel in your care.

Being detail orientated

Attention to detail is a crucial quality to maintaining specific rules and protocols in the dental sphere. Dental Assistants must be aware of - and constantly practice - certain rules and regulations, from the proper cleaning and sterilisation of equipment to providing the patient with correct follow-up instructions.

Showing good interpersonal skills

Working extremely closely with Dentists and patients means a Dental Assistant needs to show and engage in good interpersonal communication. Being able to listen well, respond effectively and keep the patient calm and comfortable while actively assisting a Dentist in practice are all means of good interpersonal communication.

Become a qualified Dental Assistant with the HLT35021 Certificate III in Dental Assisting. Enjoy online theory at your own pace, combined with hands-on experience in a working dental clinic. Call Foundation Education on 1300 616 197 to get started today!

Next