Should I become a Dental Assistant Before Dental School?
Should I become a Dental Assistant Before Dental School?
Becoming a dental assistant before dental school can be a smart move—if used strategically. Here are the pros and cons to help you decide:
Benefits
Hands-On Experience
You’ll learn dental terminology, procedures, and workflows firsthand. This gives you a major head start over other pre-dental students.Stronger Dental School Application
Schools value clinical exposure. Real patient contact as a dental assistant demonstrates commitment and insight into the profession.Mentorship Opportunities
Working closely with dentists can lead to valuable letters of recommendation and guidance through the application process.Income While Prepping
It’s a paid job—so you can support yourself while studying for the DAT or finishing your prerequisites.Better Perspective
You’ll know whether you truly enjoy clinical dentistry before committing to years of expensive schooling.
Drawbacks
Time Commitment
Full-time assisting may limit your time for DAT prep or coursework unless you carefully manage your schedule.Not Required
Dental schools don’t require applicants to be dental assistants. Shadowing and volunteering can also meet clinical experience needs.Physical Demands
Assisting is tiring work—long hours on your feet, repetitive motions, and fast-paced environments.
Verdict
Yes—if you're looking to strengthen your application, gain clinical confidence, and make sure dentistry is the right fit.
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.
