If you’ve been considering a career as a dental assistant, there’s never been a better time to start training. With dental assistants in demand in Ontario today, training for this career path could be a great way to secure a stable and fulfilling future. Dental assistants perform several duties within dental practices and are responsible for more than just providing hands-on support to dentists. These professionals work to educate patients, record medical histories, perform radiographs, take impressions, and much more.
If you’ve been considering a career as a dental assistant, there’s never been a better time to start training. With dental assistants in demand in Ontario today, training for this career path could be a great way to secure a stable and fulfilling future. Dental assistants perform several duties within dental practices and are responsible for more than just providing hands-on support to dentists. These professionals work to educate patients, record medical histories, perform radiographs, take impressions, and much more.
Today, we’re having a conversation with Rebekah M., the Lead Instructor for Algonquin Careers Academy’s intra-oral dental assistant program. “I have had the pleasure of teaching at ACA for five years,” Rebekah M. says. “Along with theory and practical teaching, I also keep our dental clinic compliant with IPAC standards and maintain inventory.” As part of her role, she also communicates with local dentists to coordinate practicum placement opportunities for students.
Below, Rebekah M. offers some expert information about the role of dental assistants, advice for prospective dental assistants, and insights into ACA’s dental assistant program. Read on to discover if this career path is right for you!
Learn More About The Dental Assistant Career Path
If you’re wondering whether a dental assistant career is right for you, Rebekah M. provides some clarity about the role of these professionals. “A misconception of being a dental assistant (DA) is that DAs only assist the dentist and suction; however, we have many duties in a dental practice. Dental assistants are also sterilization specialists, radiographers, responsible for inventory control, and patient education and treatment (within our scope of practice for Ontario).”
In addition to this profession being both dynamic and hands-on, it’s also a great time to begin intra-oral dental assistant training. “It’s a fantastic time to become a dental assistant,” says Rebekah M. “DA positions are high in demand and many of our students are hired right after graduating and oftentimes, hired by their placement office. It is a very rewarding career that offers a variety of positions and a flexible work schedule. The best reward is connecting with patients, making a difference in their dental health care and their smiles!”
It’s a great time to begin intra-oral dental assistant training
Tips for Success in Intra-Oral Dental Assistant Training and Beyond
Training to become a dental assistant is a rigorous process, but by building the right skills and focusing on key areas, success will follow. “Important skills to focus on are good study habits, teamwork and a positive attitude,” says Rebekah M. “My best advice for students considering the IODA Program would be to study and gain as much information as possible, also observe and ask questions. Good time management skills would also be a great benefit for success in the program,” she continues.
“The students who have been most successful in the program are team players. A dental assistant is an integral part of the dental team and a student that works well with others is a quality that dentists look for when going through the hiring process. Being detail-oriented and having good listening skills are qualities that have benefited students who have been successful in the program,” Rebekah notes.
What Makes ACA’s Intra-Oral Dental Assistant Program Unique
When it comes to training for a dental assistant role, Rebekah names a few advantages of choosing ACA’s intra-oral dental assistant program. “A benefit of choosing the IODA Program at ACA is the hybrid format; this allows students to learn at their own pace while still being able to work or tend to childcare. Another benefit is the hands-on experience in a state of the art new dental clinic,” she says. After their training, students also complete a practicum placement, preparing them to transition smoothly into a career.
ACA’s IODA program prepares students for successful careers in dental assisting
ACA has also recently invested in opening a brand new state-of-the-art seven-chair operatory at its 1830 Bank Street location, providing even more access and opportunities for students to hone their practical skills.
Get Inspired to Launch Your Career!
Embarking on a new career path can be intimidating, but Rebekah M. shares a story about one of her students that may inspire you. “One success story that comes to mind is a graduate student who is a young mother of three who traveled four hours a day for the hands-on learning aspect of the program. The dedication to the program while tending to young children was impressive. For her efforts and commitment to her education, she was awarded the Ottawa Dental Society Award of Recognition.”
If you’re interested in training for a career in this rewarding and in-demand field, contact Algonquin Careers Academy to learn more about how you can get started.
