4 reasons dental assistants should pursue continuing education in the new year
This upcoming year, it is likely that many dental assistants will resolve to complete continuing education (CE) to move their careers forward. This is an admirable goal, since the value of CE to a dental assistant’s career is clear. CE not only can have a positive impact on dental assistants’ professional development, but also on the practices where they work.
In fact, the Value of Dental Assistants to the Dental Practice research commissioned by the DALE Foundation, the official affiliate of the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB), found that when dental assistants earn CE, their careers and the practices in which they work thrive.
Reasons to make CE one of your new year career goals
More opportunities for professional growth
Educated and experienced dental assistants can better demonstrate their knowledge in the dental office. Thus, they may be able to take on additional responsibilities, such as expanded functions duties as their state allows. Or, they can stretch into new roles, including infection control coordinator, dental office manager, dental assistant educator, and more.
“There are so many professional advantages to seeking out educational opportunities,” says Bonnie B., CDA. “CE completion does not only look good on a résumé, it is also an investment in one’s self.”
Renewed passion for the profession
Completing CE also can keep dental assistants interested in their careers. Learning often elevates how engaged a professional is in his or her journey.
Elizabeth C., MAADOM, who has a background in dental assisting, specifically credits the educational resources available through both the DALE Foundation and American Association of Dental Office Management (AADOM) for supporting her transition into dental office administration, a role she loves!
“Through learning, dental professionals can gain more motivation to do their jobs better and feel excited again about where their career path might take them,” Elizabeth says.
Enhanced overall value to the practice and patients
Ultimately, dental assistants who complete CE bring more value to the dental team. According to the DALE Foundation’s Value of Dental Assistants to the Dental Practice research, 87% of surveyed dentists and dental office managers agreed or strongly agreed that dental assistants who complete CE are more likely to contribute to the profitability of the practice.
Additionally, 86% of dentists and dental office managers agreed or strongly agreed that CE is critical to maintaining the dental assistants’ skills. Dental assistants are often responsible for providing patient education, so focusing on lifelong learning not only benefits dental assistants, it also helps them better communicate with the patients they serve.
“Through completing CE, especially in the area of infection control, dental assistants are making a commitment to patients that we are doing everything we can to protect and take care of them,” believes Tania S., CDA.
“Any opportunity you get for continued learning, take it,” Elizabeth adds. “The more you know, the better you will be for yourself and for your employer.”
Explore online CE offerings for dental assistants
Looking for CE? The DALE Foundation can help! Whether you’re seeking CE for meeting DANB’s recertification requirements, renewing your state dental assisting license or registration, or simply quelling your own thirst for knowledge, there are a variety of online offerings to meet your budget and needs.
See the DALE Foundation’s product catalog.
Save on DALE Foundation continuing education
Through January 31, use promotion code CDEA20 at checkout to receive 20% off all DALE Foundation continuing dental education articles (CDEA) products:
- Anxiety and special needs in pediatric dentistry
- Caries management for pediatric dentistry
- General aspects of instrument processing
- Pediatric dentistry
- Preventive and restorative guidelines for pediatric dentistry
- Sedation in pediatric dentistry
- Understanding CDC’s summary of infection prevention practices in dental settings
Plus, an additional 5% off will be applied at checkout when buying two or more products.
Note: The discount is available to those who are buying for themselves, not buying for others.
