If you are interested in enrolling in the Dental Assistant with Radiology Program at ACI Medical & Dental School, the first step is making sure you understand the skills and responsibilities included in the Dental Assistant job description.
What Skills Does a Dental Assistant Need?
At ACI Medical & Dental School, students will learn the skills necessary to become a Dental Assistant with Radiology through hands on training with our experienced faculty and state of the art equipment, these skills include:
- Dental Anatomy and Terminology.
- Dental Instruments, Equipment and Materials.
- Exposing and Processing Radiographic Films.
- Sterilization, Infection Control, and Disinfection.
- Clinical Preparation, Procedures, and Tray Set-Ups.
- Dental Emergency Procedures.
- Treatment Planning & Dental Software Products.
According to the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB), the three most crucial qualities for a Dental Assistant are:
- Effective Communication
- Coachability
- Compassionate Service
What are the Job Requirements of a Dental Assistant?
A Dental Assistant is a critical member of a dental team, and has a range of important daily tasks including:
- Communicating with patients.
- Sterilizing and processing dental equipment and instruments.
- Helping the dentist with intra-oral dental procedures.
- X-ray exposing and processing.
- Treatment planning & front desk procedures including dental software products.
We also offer Dental Radiology as a standalone program for experienced Dental Assistants who can pass an ACI Medical & Dental School Entrance Exam.
What is the Current Job Outlook for Dental Assistants?
Now is an excellent time to pursue a career as a Dental Assistant. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that “Employment of Dental Assistants is projected to grow 8 percent by 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations.”
How Does Certification Help New Dental Assistants?
According to the DANB, here are five ways new Dental Assistants benefit from being certified through an accredited program:
- Higher Earnings. Certified Dental Assistants enjoy better earnings, with a median hourly rate of $26, compared to $22.50 for non-certified Dental Assistants—a difference of 15%!
- More Benefits. Certified DAs are 10% more likely to have access to benefits like paid time off, holidays, retirement savings, and health and dental insurance, which are essential contributors to job satisfaction.
- New Career Opportunities. Certified DAs are more likely to grow into expanded roles such as lead Dental Assistant, restorative functions, infection control coordinator, and more.
- Increased Job Satisfaction. Certified Dental Assistants report higher job satisfaction rates, with 65% feeling content compared to 55% of non-certified assistants.
- High Personal Achievement. Certification can help DA candidates stand out when applying for jobs or seeking promotions, positioning them for greater success and recognition.
The Dental Assistant with Radiology Program at ACI Medical & Dental School
Students who complete ACI’s Medical & Dental School’s Dental Assistant with Radiology Program will receive radiation health and safety certification through the Dental Assistant National Board Examination and become licensed in dental radiologic technology through the New Jersey Environmental Protection Agency. Our Career Assistance Program is also available to prepare you for an entry-level position in the medical field.
Contact us today to learn more about the Dental Assistant job description and get started on your new career.
