Completing a certification, diploma, or degree course, including your internship, in dental assisting means there is still one thing that you should do if you want to receive a higher than average pay - and that is to pass the licensure exams for assistants.
After passing the exams, you are now ready to face the world and work in the dental health industry.
It will not be hard for you to find a job since dental assisting is considered as one of the fastest growing industries today and the need for assistants is huge.
In fact, the number of open jobs far exceeds the number of available assistants in the country.
Despite this fact, there still could be competition among qualified dentist assistants especially if you are looking for a job in an area where the need for dentistry assistant is big.
Therefore, to help you in your job search, take note of the following important matters: Job Search Information Resume Your resume is the first thing a prospective employer sees, thus, you have to ensure that you are able to "market" yourself properly.
Prepare and check your credentials to the littlest detail and include the following information: - Educational background - Clinical internship and experience - Previous work experience, if any - Job and character references Be direct when describing your experiences because employers prefer to read only the vital information about your educational background and skills.
Preferred Qualities of a Dental Assistant Dental assistants are always the first persons patients see upon entering the dental clinic.
In addition, they work hand in hand with dentists, thus, it is essential that you have the following traits: - Very good people skills - Excellent communication skills - Can work in a team environment - Ability to handle equipment and instruments - Superior organizational skills - Critical thinker Where to Find Dental Assistant Jobs There are several ways on how you can find that dentist assistant job and these are the top 3 you need to focus on if you're looking for that entry level job.
Your School.
Check your school if they offer job placement assistance to their graduates.
Most likely, they do, or at least, you can get leads as to where to apply and how much is the rate for new graduates.
Internship.
This is your big chance to grab that dental assisting job because some dental offices hire their interns who show great potential during their on-the-job training.
The good thing about this is you are already familiar with the dentist's methods and office procedures.
Placement Agencies.
If you are still waiting for better opportunities in the dental assisting industry, you might want to consider working on contractual basis for starters.
Usually, contracts are for a three-month period, thus, giving you time to assess whether you prefer a more permanent role in the dental office or not.
This is also gives you opportunities to scout for other job prospects.
As you can see, you have many options when it comes to finding work.
All you have to do is exhaust all means and not settle for anything less than what you think you deserve.
There are many available jobs for dental assistants, you just have to be vigilant in your job search efforts.