5 things dental assistants wish the dentists knew

As a dental assistant, I’ve had the opportunity to work closely with dentists for many years. While the relationship between a dentist and a dental assistant is often a close and collaborative one, there are still some things that dental assistants wish their dentists knew. In this article, I’ll be sharing five things that dental assistants like myself wish our dentists knew.

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1. We Need Clear Communication

As dental assistants, we’re not mind readers. While we’ve been trained to anticipate the needs of our dentists and patients, we can’t always know exactly what you want or need in a given moment. That’s why clear communication is so important. Whether it’s telling us what you need us to do or explaining a particular procedure to a patient, please take the time to communicate clearly with us.

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2. Our Time is Valuable Too

While we understand that dentists have a lot on their plate, it’s important to remember that our time is valuable too. We work hard to make sure that everything runs smoothly in the office, from scheduling appointments to preparing instruments and materials. So, when you’re running behind or need to cancel at the last minute, please be mindful of how this affects our schedule as well.

3. We Want to Be Involved in Patient Care

As dental assistants, we’re passionate about what we do, and we take pride in helping patients achieve their best oral health. That’s why we want to be involved in patient care as much as possible. We’re not just here to clean up after you – we want to be an integral part of the treatment process, offering our expertise and support every step of the way.

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4. We Need Your Support

Dental assisting can be a physically and mentally demanding job, and we need your support to help us do our best work. This means providing us with the tools and resources we need to do our jobs effectively, as well as offering emotional support and recognition for a job well done. By showing your appreciation for our hard work, you can help us feel valued and motivated to continue doing our best.

5. We’re a Team

Last but not least, it’s important to remember that we’re all part of the same team. Whether you’re a dentist, a dental assistant, or a front office staff member, we’re all working together to provide the best possible care for our patients. By treating each other with respect and kindness, we can create a positive and supportive work environment that benefits everyone.

In conclusion, as a dental assistant, there are certain things that I wish my dentist knew. From clear communication to recognizing our hard work, these small things can make a big difference in creating a happy and productive work environment. By working together as a team, we can provide the best possible care for our patients while also supporting each other as colleagues and friends.

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