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Here are a few ways dental assistants provide value:
1. Productivity
Ninety-nine percent of dentists and dental office managers agree that dental assistants significantly contribute to productivity within the dental practice. This includes providing more flexibility for the dentist and team for optimal effectiveness.
2. Profit
One of the key factors of any role is the value employees add to the organization in terms of profitability. According to the survey, 97% of dentists and office managers indicate dental assistants contribute to patient retention, which translates to a positive impact on the bottom line.
3. Safety
Safety is two-fold, addressing the needs of patients and the provider. One of the most important functions within a dental practice is infection prevention and control. In most cases, sterilization and disinfection of tools are handled by the dental assistant.
4. Purchasing power
When it comes to making purchases, dental assistants are front and center. In fact, 74% of dental assistants reported they make recommendations for the products used in their practice, with 72% actually helping to place orders. The dental assistant is very influential, as they meet with sales representatives and guide major purchase decisions.
5. Essential qualities and traits
In any role, there are a number of responsibilities to manage, but dental assistants wear many hats. They must have experience in diverse areas of the practice and in dealing with people to successfully carry out their duties. The broad range of qualities and traits dental assistants possess helps to drive the success of the dental office.
Making the Most of Your Dental Assistant Role
It’s easy to see why the role of a dental assistant is so instrumental in keeping dental practices running smoothly. Having the right training and education to maximize their effectiveness is also key in being successful on the job. According to dentist and dental office managers, dental assistants should do everything the state allows them to do, with 85% of dental offices cross-training their dental assistants to address specific office needs.
Continuing education also plays a huge role in the success of a dental assistant. The survey found 89% of dentists, dental hygienists and dental office managers believe that continuing education is critical to dental assistants in maintaining their skills, with 90% of them indicating dental assistants who pursue continuing education credits are more likely to add profitability to the practice.
Portland Community College’s Integrated Community Dental Assisting program is instrumental in providing the skills dental assistants need. A non-credit program, this program helps get dental assistants to work quickly in only nine months, with an onsite, eight (8) hours a week hands-on skills training and weekly externship opportunity. To pursue an exciting career as a dental assistant, enroll in PCC’s Integrated Community Dental Assisting program or contact an advisor to find out more information today.