Every dentist understands the vital role that dental assistants play in ensuring a smooth, efficient, and successful practice. But have you ever considered how proper training and mentorship can not only improve your team's performance but also lead to a more enjoyable and productive work environment?
I’ve worked in numerous practices, working with many different dental assistants and believe I have cracked the code to finding and training the perfect dental assistant. Whether you’ve been working in the field for years or are fresh out of dental school, you’ll want to read my six tips for mastering dental assistant training.
1. Candidate Selection: Finding the Right Fit
It’s easy to overlook great skill sets while reviewing resumes or conducting interviews, especially when you become laser focused on finding someone with a dental background. But it’s so important to consider all different skill sets and backgrounds. In fact, one of my best assistants came from a call center background. The key skill? Exceptional computer literacy and multitasking ability. These traits are critical, especially when you're relying on your assistant to complete notes or manage patient records.
Hot Tip: conduct a typing test during interviews. This simple test will help you gauge whether potential candidates have the computer skills necessary to keep up in a fast-paced dental environment. It’s a small but impactful step to streamline efficiency in your practice.
2. Creating a Positive Learning Environment
Dentistry is a learning curve, whether you work the front desk, are a dental assistant or dentist. Because of this, it is essential to have a supportive work culture where assistants feel comfortable acknowledging their mistakes, learning from feedback, and work towards improving their skills and knowledge. This is why you should focus on hiring individuals who can handle constructive criticism and embrace learning curves.
I remember when an assistant mistakenly referred to a 'blood socket' instead of a 'blood clot.' Rather than being embarrassed, everyone shared a laugh, and the assistant learned from the moment.
Remember mistakes happen, it’s how we respond to them that matters. So by fostering an environment where assistants feel comfortable and supported, you’re setting them up for success. It's about providing feedback in a way that encourages learning without the fear of failure.
3. Delegate for Greater Efficiency
Do you even know how to delegate? It’s hard sometimes to give up control. As dentists, it’s easy to feel like we must handle everything ourselves. Whether you feel like you feel you can do a better job or you don’t think you have the time to train someone how to do it.
This is where efficiency and production comes to a crawl (and burnout arises). Every good leader knows how to delegate and what tasks should be delegated.
I recommend that smaller tasks like typing notes, providing post-op instructions, or conducting oral hygiene education should be delegated to dental assistants. This helps to free up time so you can better focus on patient care.
An empowered dental assistant can perform tasks beyond chairside assistance, adding immense value to the practice.
4. Surgical Skills: A Two-Person Job
The age-old saying, ‘many hands make light work’, is exactly why having a competent and confident dental assistant is important. Four-handed dentistry makes procedures so much easier for you, particularly in surgical procedures.
Assistants often assume that certain tasks, like suturing, can only be done by the dentist alone. However, having an assistant suctioning, and helping retract tissues is crucial to a successful procedure that takes less time (your patients will thank you for this).
5. Retaining Top Talent
Staff retention is a challenge in many practices, which is why it’s important to keep your team motivated and provide growth opportunities. The key? Responsibility (aka delegating).
Giving assistants more tasks, delegating challenging work, and recognizing their accomplishments not only boosts their confidence but gives them a reason to stay.
My clinic has a structured training program where assistants can progress through different levels, each tied to increased responsibilities and pay. This system helps assistants feel valued and keeps them engaged in their roles for longer.
6. Feedback: Positive Reinforcement is Key
When it comes to feedback, you need to go beyond a simple “thank you.” Be more specific when you give feedback, whether you’re pointing out what went well or what didn’t, it’s always a good move to use the ‘compliment sandwich’ - positive feedback, constructive criticism, positive feedback.
Doing this shows that you’re paying attention and genuinely appreciate the efforts of your assistants. These small moments can also greatly boost morale and encourage continuous improvement.
What’s next?
Whether you’re in the process of hiring a new dental assistant, training a dental assistant or have been working with the same dental assistant for years, consider implementing some of these tips. Trust me, they work.
Want more? You can watch my masterclass where I discuss how to train your dental assistant right here.
For more insights, tips, and resources to elevate your dental practice, explore our wide range of masterclasses and expert-led courses at RipeGlobal. Let's level up your practice together!
