Dentists and dental assistants are a team, but like any team, there’s always room for growth. The dental assistant’s role is critical to the flow of the day, the comfort of the patient, and the success of the practice. While many assistants already excel in their jobs, there are certain areas that dentists often wish could be fine-tuned.
Here are five areas dentists would like to see their dental assistants improve on, and how those improvements can make a big difference for both the team and the patients.
Anticipating the Dentist’s Needs
One of the most valuable skills a dental assistant can have is the ability to predict the next step in a procedure. Dentists appreciate when an assistant can pass instruments or prepare materials without being told. It creates a seamless, almost choreographed experience in the operatory.
Many dentists say they spend extra time verbally asking for things during procedures that a more proactive assistant could have ready in advance. This skill comes with experience, but it also takes intentional focus. Studying procedure steps so you know what’s coming next is key. Observing the dentist’s patterns is imperative as many have their own preferences for setup and workflow. Staying one step ahead by preparing the next instrument or material before the dentist has to request it is being proactive and makes the workflow smooth.
When an assistant masters anticipation, it not only makes the dentist’s job easier, but also speeds up procedures, making the entire schedule run more smoothly.
Improving Time Management and Efficiency
Time is the most valuable resource in a dental office. Dentists often notice that delays (even small ones) can ripple through the day and cause stress for both patients and staff. Dental assistants who can manage their time effectively between patients are a tremendous asset. This means setting up rooms quickly and accurately before the patient arrives, breaking down rooms promptly after a procedure while still following sterilization protocols, and multi-tasking wisely, such as preparing the next tray while waiting on sterilization cycles.
Dentists appreciate when assistants understand the importance of keeping the day on track without cutting corners. The ability to move with purpose and avoid unnecessary downtime is one of the biggest differences between a good assistant and a great one.
Communication Skills — With Both Patients and the Dentist
Dentists rely heavily on their assistants to help keep patients informed, calm, and comfortable. Clear communication with patients is more than just explaining post-op instructions, it’s about building trust. A patient who feels heard and understood is more likely to have a positive experience and accept treatment recommendations.
On the flip side, dentists also value clear and concise communication within the operatory. This includes asking questions when unsure rather than guessing, confirming details about treatment plans or patient needs before the appointment begins, and using hand signals or brief verbal cues during procedures to keep the environment calm.
A dental assistant who can balance professional, empathetic patient communication with efficient, to-the-point team communication is an invaluable bridge between the dentist and the patient.
Mastering Infection Control and Sterilization
While most assistants understand the basics of infection control, dentists often wish their teams would treat it with even greater precision and consistency. In today’s dental environment, patients are increasingly aware of sterilization protocols, and any slip, even a small one, can damage trust.
Areas for improvement often include:
- Following every step of sterilization without skipping when the schedule gets tight.
- Keeping treatment areas spotless, not just clean to the casual eye.
- Regularly updating skills according to the latest OSHA and CDC guidelines.
When assistants are meticulous about infection control, they protect both the practice’s reputation and the health of every patient and staff member. Dentists notice and appreciate that diligence.
Expanding Clinical Knowledge and Skills
Dentists appreciate when their assistants are committed to learning, not just the basics, but advanced skills that can make the entire team more efficient. This could include learning new dental software features, becoming proficient with digital scanning technology, understanding more complex procedures such as implant placement or orthodontic adjustments or taking continuing education courses to stay updated on new techniques.
An assistant who invests in their own growth shows initiative and professionalism. The more knowledge an assistant has, the more they can contribute, and the less the dentist has to explain or supervise during complex treatments.
Why These Improvements Matter
Dentists aren’t looking for perfection, they’re looking for progress. Improving in these five areas not only benefits the dentist, but also makes the assistant’s workday smoother and more rewarding. Patients notice the difference when a dental team operates with precision, empathy, and efficiency.
For dental assistants, taking steps toward these improvements can mean less stress during busy days, greater trust and respect from the dentist, and increased opportunities for career advancement and higher pay.
Essentially, these aren’t just “wish list” items from dentists, they’re career boosters for any assistant who wants to shine in their role!
A successful dental practice is like a finely tuned machine, every moving part matters! When dental assistants focus on anticipating needs, managing time efficiently, communicating clearly, maintaining strict infection control, and expanding their knowledge, they’re not just supporting the dentist, they’re elevating the entire patient experience. And that’s something every dentist will notice and appreciate!
Sherri Merritt
Dental Consultant & Trainer
