Are you considering a career in the dental field and wondering what it takes to help you prepare for the job market? Identifying the top skills employers look for in Dental Assistants is an essential step for anyone looking to enter this vital healthcare sector. At MedQuest College, our Dental Assisting program curriculum is designed to provide the opportunity for students to develop a balance of technical proficiency and professional “soft skills” that dental practices value.
Essential Skill Sets for Professional Dental Practice
The role of a dental assistant is multifaceted, requiring a blend of clinical expertise and administrative coordination. When hiring, dentists often look for candidates who can seamlessly transition between patient care and office efficiency.
| Skill Category | Specific Skill | Why Employers Value It |
| Clinical Technical | Chairside Assisting | Allows the dentist to work efficiently by anticipating the next step in a procedure. |
| Radiology | X-Ray Certification | Demonstrates the ability to capture high-quality diagnostic images safely. |
| Communication | Patient Interaction | Helps ease patient anxiety and provides clear post-operative instructions. |
| Administrative | Record Keeping | Ensures accurate patient charts and compliance with healthcare regulations. |
| Safety | Infection Control | Maintains a sterile environment and follows strict OSHA/CDC guidelines. |
Why “Soft Skills” Matter Just as Much as Technical Ability
While technical training is foundational, many of the top skills employers look for in Dental Assistants fall under the category of interpersonal abilities. Because dental assistants are often the first and last person a patient interacts with during a visit, following these steps is designed to help you prepare for entry into the field:
- Adaptability: Dental offices are fast-paced; the ability to switch tasks quickly is vital.
- Active Listening: Understanding a patient’s concerns or a dentist’s specific instructions during a procedure.
- Attention to Detail: Precision is required for everything from mixing dental materials to scheduling complex appointments.
How to Build Your Professional Toolkit
Understanding the top skills employers look for in Dental Assistants is just the beginning. To be prepared for the workforce, aspiring dental assistants typically follow a structured path of preparation:
- Comprehensive Training: Enrolling in a dental assisting program like the one at MedQuest College, which is designed to provide hands-on experience in a clinical setting.
- Certification Readiness: Preparing for relevant examinations, such as radiation safety or infection control, as required by state regulations.
- Hands-on Externship: Applying skills in a real-world dental office to gain practical experience before graduation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the most important skill for a dental assistant?
A: While all skills are important, many employers prioritize “chairside assisting” and “infection control” as the most critical clinical skills, paired with strong communication for patient comfort.
Q: Do dental assistants need to be certified in Kentucky or Indiana?
A: Requirements vary by state. For example, Kentucky requires assistants to be registered by their employer dentist and complete specific courses for expanded duties like radiography. In Indiana, to legally operate X-ray equipment, an assistant must obtain a Limited Dental Radiographer License from the Indiana Department of Health. This requires completing an approved education program, clinical training, and passing the DANB Radiation Health and Safety (RHS) exam. MedQuest College’s program is designed to provide the training intended to help students meet these regional requirements.
Q: What is the job outlook for dental assistants?
A: According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for dental assistants is projected to grow 8 percent from 2023 to 2033, which is faster than the average for all occupations.*
Q: How long does it take to learn these dental assisting skills?
A: MedQuest College offers a 10-month Dental Assisting program, focused on providing the classroom theory and lab practice intended to help students prepare for entry-level roles in the field.
Ready to Start Your Training?
If you are ready to learn the top skills employers look for in Dental Assistants, MedQuest College offers the curriculum and hands-on lab environment to help you start your journey. Learn more about our Dental Assisting program and schedule your campus tour today.
*Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook. National projections may not reflect local job market conditions.