5 Things I Wish I Knew Before Becoming a Dental Assistant
5 Things I Wish I Knew Before Becoming a Dental Assistant
Choosing to become a dental assistant was a life-changing decision—one that I ultimately don’t regret. But when I first entered the field, I was unprepared for how complex and demanding the job would be. Like many people, I had a vague idea that the role involved helping the dentist and setting up tools, but I didn’t fully understand what I was stepping into. If I could go back and speak to my younger self before starting this journey, here are the five things I wish I had known.
1. It’s More Physically Demanding Than You Expect
One of the biggest surprises was how physically intense the job can be. You’re constantly on your feet—sometimes for an entire shift without a break. You’re reaching, twisting, leaning over patients, and adjusting equipment in tight spaces. The repetitive motions and awkward postures can lead to fatigue, sore muscles, and even long-term musculoskeletal issues. In school, the focus was on learning procedures and anatomy, but no one told me how important it would be to take care of my body. Now, I make stretching and posture correction a daily habit, and I always wear supportive shoes. If I had understood this from the start, I would have taken preventive steps earlier to protect my health.
2. You Must Be Emotionally Resilient
The dental chair can be an emotional battlefield. Many patients come in nervous, fearful, or even in pain. You’re not just assisting with procedures—you’re often the first person to comfort someone who’s visibly anxious or upset. And in the midst of that, you need to stay calm, professional, and composed while making sure the dentist has what they need. There are also tough moments with difficult coworkers, patients who don’t follow instructions, or unexpected emergencies. Early in my career, I let stress get the better of me. Over time, I developed emotional resilience through practice, mindfulness, and mentorship. This ability to stay centered in stressful situations has become one of the most valuable tools in my toolkit.
3. There’s Constant Learning Involved
If you think graduating from dental assisting school means you’re done learning, think again. The reality is that dental technology evolves quickly. From digital X-rays to new sterilization techniques, you’re constantly adapting to new tools and systems. On top of that, each dental office does things a little differently, and you need to learn and adjust quickly in every setting. There are also continuing education requirements to maintain certification, especially if you work in states that require expanded functions. I underestimated how important it would be to stay proactive about learning. Now, I seek out training opportunities and read industry publications regularly. The more I learn, the more confident and valuable I become to my team.
4. Communication Skills Matter—A Lot
I used to think technical skills were all that mattered. But being a great dental assistant also means being a great communicator. You’re constantly talking to patients—explaining procedures, answering questions, and giving post-treatment instructions. At the same time, you’re listening carefully to the dentist, anticipating their needs, and keeping the workflow smooth. Miscommunication can lead to mistakes, discomfort, or even patient dissatisfaction. I learned through trial and error that how you speak, listen, and react is just as important as how well you can take an impression or polish teeth. Developing those soft skills has helped me build trust with both patients and coworkers.
5. It’s a Career, Not Just a Job
When I first became a dental assistant, I saw it as a stepping stone—maybe something to do while I figured out a bigger plan. What I didn’t realize was how much potential there is for long-term growth. Dental assistants can specialize in areas like orthodontics or oral surgery, move into office management, become instructors at dental assistant schools, or even transition into roles in dental product sales or insurance. Some go on to become dental hygienists or practice managers. This field is full of opportunity if you’re willing to work hard and keep learning. I now view it not just as a job, but as a dynamic career with options I never imagined.
That said, dental assisting offers job security, steady income, and healthcare benefits—and it can be a great stepping stone to more advanced roles that do cross the $100K threshold.
Lastly, if you’re looking for a real, stable, and respected career—not just a quick way into the workforce—becoming a licensed dental assistant is the way to go. And when it comes to training, The New York School for Medical and Dental Assistants stands out as the premier institution in the state. It’s the smart choice for anyone ready to invest in a future in healthcare.
