Should You Enroll in a Dental Assistant Training Program?

Are you a high school graduate? Or maybe you're a professional looking to switch careers. Why not consider enrolling in a dental assisting training. The dentistry field is very appealing: the salaries are good, there's lots of job positions, and employees generally get good benefit packages. However, there are a few unique issues you should consider before choosing to attend school to become a dental assistant. Here are some challenges that usually aren't discussed in the initial stages of training that could have a big impact on your career.

Are You A Person Who's Emotional or Squeamish?

Although most dental procedures are painless, there are times when local anesthesia doesn't work. Some people do not get numb. Some people are terrified of the dentist and may have panic attacks, vomit, or cry. At other times, there could be significant amounts of blood or pus. Some patients may also have foul-smelling breath, open sores, or oral cancers. Dental assisting may not be the right career choice for you if you're emotional or squeamish.

Do You Have Ambidexterity?

IIf you and the dentist you're assisting are both right-handed, you must be proficient and dexterous in using your left hand. It's the same thing if you and the dentist are left-handed. Whether the dentist you're assisting is right-handed or left-handed, you need to have the ability to work opposite him.  While you will get comfortable using both hands during dental assistant training, you may encounter difficulty if you are heavily one-handed.

What's the Condition of Your Teeth?

The people coming in for dental checkups and dental work expect the people working in the office to have teeth that are white and even. Just as a plastic surgeon would not usually employ someone with an uncorrected lazy eye or cleft palate, a dentist usually encourages his employees to have beautiful teeth. If you have some sort of dental phobia or if your front teeth have dental issues, you might find it hard to find a job.

Do You Like Being Around People?

Over the course of your dental assistant training, you may have to let other students to look in your mouth or perform a cleaning for class credit. When you work in a dentist's office, you'll meet handicapped, mentally disabled, and even violent people. If you are uncomfortable sharing personal space with other people, regardless of gender, handicap, or race, dental assisting might not be the right career path for you.

While dental assistant training is a great field with many opportunities, it's important to think these issues through before making a decision. You need to have functional ambidexterity, as well as be relaxed, composed and professional at all times if you work as a dental assistant.