job description of a dental assistant for resume

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15 Dental Assistant Resume Examples + Complete Guide

Dental Assistant

Best for mid and entry-level candidates

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• Dental Assistant Resume
• Dental Assistant Resumes by Experience
• Dental Assistant Resumes by Role

Writing Your Dental Assistant Resume

Dental assistants are a tremendous asset to any dental office, but it’s not always easy coming up with what to say when you’re applying for a job. After all, how are you supposed to put all your expertise on one page?

If this sounds familiar, then know that the goal of this post is to lift some of that burden by providing essential tips and showing you exactly what you need to do to  make a resume that lands interviews.

These 15 dental assistant resume samples have  helped real dental assistants land jobs,  and our writing guide can help you learn the nitty-gritty of resume writing (or cover letter writing ) so you can land your next great dental assistant role in 2024.

Dental Assistant Resume Example

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Why this resume works

• Some states (like Iowa) have dental assistant programs designed for people specifically with no certification. You learn the skills on the job so you can eventually apply to get certified! 
• Metrics quantify your impact and let your future employer know that you did something special. 

Experienced Dental Assistant Resume

• Certification for dental assistants varies state by state, but nearly all dental assistant jobs require you have either cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) certification or Basic Life Support (BLS) certification. So if you have either, be sure to mention it on your experienced dental assistant resume.
• We’d recommend having six to eight skills, such as “X-rays” and “4-handed dentistry.”

Inexperienced Dental Assistant Resume

• Be sure to include activities that demonstrate leadership when possible, like being on a sports team or the president of a club.
• If you decide to include a  resume objective , make sure you customize it for each job to which you apply. The most effective way to do that is to include the company name, followed by a sentence or two explaining your strengths that mirror some of the requirements in the  dental assistant job description .

Dental Assistant Externship  Resume Example

• For your projects, add any instances of using dental tools even if it was only at a seminar. Next, use the career objective space to convince the employer that you’re more than ready to be an extern with your current knowledge.

Dental Assistant-In-Training Resume

• Never fear, rely on transferable skills! Positions like office assistant jobs do a great job demonstrating your capacity to provide quality customer service and vast knowledge of electronic medical records.
• We’d also recommend adding a  resume objective  (also called a career objective) to highlight your passion for the role you’re applying to and your relevant skills.
• If you do include an objective, always include the company name and the specific job you’re seeking. Customization is vital!

Lead Dental Assistant  Resume Example

• Remember to include how junior dental assistants have flourished under your supervision as a way of demonstrating your leadership skills and capacity building for future professionals.

Endodontic Dental Assistant Resume

• The next step is giving these skills extra weight by adding quantified bullet points that display how you’ve used each tool to create direct impacts like boosting successful surgery rates or reducing scan-to-report turnaround times.
• Need more space to tell your story? Add the how and why of it all to your dental assistant cover letter .

Chairside Dental Assistant Resume

• Did you earn a high patient satisfaction rating? Are you proficient in cutting-edge dental tools? If yes, highlighting these achievements will add a competitive advantage to your chairside dental assistant resume.

Pediatric Dental Assistant Resume Example

• Colleges around the country offer what are usually 1-year programs in dental assisting, with the goal being certification (usually candidates need to pass the Dental Assisting National Board’s Certified Dental Assistant exam). If you’ve attended such a program, be sure to include it in the “Education” section of your pediatric dental assistant resume .
• If you’re stuck, try using a  resume outline  to get a sense of what your work experience bullet points should look like (and what the rest of your resume should look like, too). 

Oral Surgery Assistant Resume

• If you’re applying to a dental assisting job in oral surgery and you have experience in that field, then create a separate copy of your resume focusing on those aspects of your past work. 
• You’ve already seen some  good resume examples , but it can help to look at other examples within the dental field so you can note specific verbs, metrics, and skills listed there.
• Don’t plagiarize, of course; simply use the examples to give you a boost to write your own resume.

Orthodontic Dental Assistant Resume

• Including numbers on your orthodontic dental assistant resume will demonstrate your value on the job and confirm that you’re the best person for a role requiring specific job skills, like taking impressions and understanding EMR.
• First, that’s a red flag. It speaks strongly of plagiarism (plus it’s not creative).
• Secondly, simply restating the job description doesn’t make a strong sell on why you’re a better choice than the competition. Instead, focus on your accomplishments and achievements (use those numbers we just talked about) to show how you provided value beyond the basic job description.

Dental Hygiene Assistant Resume

• Many people try to emphasize education, but if you’re a few years out from your school days, it’s not relevant. Just include the basics and focus on your work experience.
• Even professional headshots can make a resume look less than professional, and they can even cause bias in the recruitment process.
• Before you go overboard, remember: your resume needs to be easy to read and pleasing to the eye. So use a different font and some color for your section headers, but keep your body text untouched.
• Tip: Find out the color scheme at the dental office you’re applying to, and use that color to complement your application!

Registered Dental Assistant Resume

• For example, a  resume objective  is great for showing off transferable skills and recent experiences if you’re just starting out in your career.
• Once you’ve nailed that content, feel free to add optional sections!
• Be sure to use the exact title widely accepted by your state on your registered dental assistant resume.

Expanded Functions Dental Assistant Resume

• Words   alone can’t provide enough evidence for your skills. Try to include numbers on the number of dental techniques you’ve mastered, or the number of patients you see per hour.
• Aim to include metrics in at least half of your bullet points, but don’t be afraid to add more if you can incorporate them naturally.
• Remember: no matter how pretty your  resume template  is, it won’t make up for content and formatting, so make sure you’re setting yourself up for success!

Certified Dental Assistant Resume

• For example, if you include a waitressing position from a few years ago, discuss responsibilities that highlight your abilities with customer service, time management, and communication. These universal skills can easily translate to a dental assistant role.
• We’d recommend formatting your resume in  reverse-chronological  order, with your most current work experience toward the top of the page. This helps highlight your most recent and, probably, most relevant job title.

Related resume guides

• Medical assistant
• Nursing assistant
• Dental hygienist

Dental assistant job postings reflect the variety of responsibilities this flexible career offers and requires. Since a dental assistant will complete various tasks every day, a strong resume for this position should reveal your abilities and responsibilities on the job. Your dental assistant resume should focus on the quantifiable skills and abilities specified in the job description.

Dental practices typically use Applicant Tracking System (ATS) recruiting software to scan applications for key terms, reducing the need for hands-on application review for the first hiring round. So, your resume may need updating to pass the ATS scanning. When creating your dental assistant resume, pay attention to these four areas to increase your odds of successfully moving on to the interview process:

• Emphasizing specific dental assistant skills
• Formatting your dental assistant resume properly
• Utilizing an objective and summary 
• Using quantifiable points 

Emphasize your dental assistant skills

When recruiters hire dental assistants, they use a three-step process to weed out candidates:

• Hiring directors narrow down candidates for minimum qualifications (usually by using ATS). Filters are set to catch basic qualifications regarding experience and key terms or phrases.
• Next, recruiters look for a set of preferred qualifications. Applicants who meet these criteria remain in the application process.
• Lastly, employers shortlist and rank candidates based on their fit with the minimum and preferred qualifications. 

To pass the ATS filtering and move on to the next phase of the process,  your resume should contain key terms and phrases from the employer’s job description.  The  skills section on your resume  is the place to explain your abilities within the scope of the dental assistant job.

You can add soft skills, like interpersonal communication, or hard skills, which are job-specific abilities learned and perfected in specific careers. Resumes that reflect the soft and hard skills the employer is looking for will pass through the ATS filter and on through the application process. Some of the top soft and hard dental assistant skills employers are looking for are:

• Dental equipment knowledge (hard skill)—shows the applicant can complete basic dental assistant tasks
• Electronic Medical Records (EMR) experience (hard skill)—shows the applicant can utilize an online data system for employer
• Medical licensing (hard skill)—indicates up-to-date, recognized proficiencies (could be a minimum requirement)
• Communication skills (soft skill)—shows abilities with positive patient interactions
• Team player (soft skill)— indicates the ability to work with others in the office
• Customer service (soft skill)—shows applicant will put the patient’s needs first
• Highly organized (soft skill)—indicates applicant can prioritize tasks and complete work on time
• X-ray experience (hard skill)—shows precise (and likely preferred) experience and training
• Vital signs (hard skill)—shows future employer ability to complete routine, necessary tasks
• Patient safety (hard skill)—indicates the ability to follow required safety steps and policies

Don’t feel pressured to put every skill on your resume to pass the ATS scan. Instead, customize your resume to match the  dental assistant job description  by finding keywords in the description and adding some to your own dental assistant resume.

Format your dental assistant resume properly

For most job seekers,  properly formatting a resume  is a huge hurdle. Your resume should of course show important details like experience, education, and applicable skill sets, but resume formatting plays a huge role in how the ATS and the hiring manager read your resume. 

Many job seekers get caught up in stylizing their resume instead of simply making minor changes to a  resume template . You don’t have to go overboard to get your resume noticed, so keep your formatting simple

Let’s look at the most vital aspects when formatting your resume for a dental assistant position:

• Pare things down by using simplified wording, removing stylized lines or graphic additions, deleting extra spacing, and removing redundancies.
• Use  bullet points  to narrow your focus and keep things short.
• Avoid using icons or images . The ATS only searches for keywords, icons and graphics won’t help the application process.
• Include the title of the position you’re seeking  on your resume to emphasize your focus or goal.
• Check, double-check, and recheck your resume to ensure  no errors . Spelling errors and other basic mistakes can be a huge turnoff to a future employer since they highlight an applicant’s lack of attention to detail. Send the resume through our  free resume checker  and have another set of eyes look at it before sending it off in an application.
• Decide if you need to include an objective or summary . If so, prioritize its location on your resume to highlight this standout feature.

Your dental assistant resume objective or summary

For some job seekers, you might want to add an  objective to your resume . Some argue that it’s antiquated, but they can be useful if you know how to use them correctly.

What exactly  is  an objective? A resume objective is a way to show a prospective employer your job aspirations and what kind of job you’re seeking. This section is best for applicants new to a field or with experience that doesn’t exactly relate to their ideal position.

In other words, if your goal is to be a dental assistant, but you don’t yet have experience, you could use an objective statement. Comprise your resume objective with two to three sentences explaining you are seeking a dental assistant position as your current career goal and why.

On the other hand, you could choose to add a  summary to your resume  instead. You use a summary if you have at least 10 years of experience in the field. Per its name, a summary summarizes your best achievements and your top skills. It’s a great way to increase your credibility within two to three sentences.

Boost your dental assistant resume with quantifiable points

Like in many careers, using specific data is a concrete way to show value. Generic, vague statements won’t do anything to help you get a job, so use details that strengthen your accomplishments. (Our tip? Try to answer the “how” in most of your work experience bullet points.) You want to show future employers exactly what you’ve done, what you’re capable of, and what they can expect of you if hired. But what does that look like on a resume? 

Here are some ways a dental assistant can show the quantifiable impact:

• Explain a percentage increase in patient retention
• Convey increase in patient satisfaction
• Relay the number of patients seen per shift
• Detail the percentage of reduced cavities experienced with patient education provided
• Listing the total number of clients assisted in a procedure

Once you pinpoint a valuable action of interest to an employer, quantify the impact you made (aka explain the results of your actions). Here are a few examples of strong job-specific quantified points that might be used as a bullet point on your dental assistant resume:

Tailor your resume for each dental assistant job application

By scanning the job posting, you should customize your dental assistant resume to match what the employer is looking for in a candidate for each of these categories:

• Objective/summary—rework your objective statement to include the company’s name, the job title you’re seeking, and specific skills related to the job description.
• Skills—add your skills to the resume you’ve listed on the job posting. Remove any that are not relevant to the job you’re applying for so you can make room for those the ATS will identify.
• Job description bullet points—some of your quantifiable points should echo what’s listed in the job description by using specific keywords and phrases.

Dental assistant resume

Once you have some expertise as a dental assistant, you can build your resume to emphasize your time in the field. This will help you stand out from other applicants. Here are some ways to customize your dental assistant resume with some experience in the field:

• List all certifications you’ve earned
• Include quantifiable points that show increases in revenue for dental practices
• Explain how you improved the dental office revenue, patient volume, or another valuable metric

You can list your certifications toward the bottom of your resume, similar to this:

Entry-level dental assistant resume

Everyone starts somewhere! For an entry-level position, you can leverage non-traditional experience, including academic or even personal projects that can demonstrate translatable experience that will still be important as a dental assistant. Here are some tips:

• Include basic certifications like CPR, since it’s an expectation for most dental practices
• List relevant experience highlighting soft skills that can be utilized as a dental assistant
• Show hobbies and interests that may indicate leadership or other positive qualities
• Mirror the job description in your resume objective, even noting the company name in the career goal

Pediatric dental assistant resume

For a specialized dental assistant resume at a pediatric office, add in some customized details like these to help you stand out from other applicants:

• Soft skill experience demonstrating any work with youth or children
• Include hard and soft skills that are especially vital to working with children, like patience or safety procedures
• List descriptions of excellent customer service provided to patients

Orthodontic dental assistant resume

When customizing your orthodontic dental assistant resume for a job in an orthodontic office, think about adding specifics to showcase your resume:

• Show soft skills that demonstrate the high-quality patient care you provided
• Include quantifiable points that focus on patient satisfaction or happiness
• Add certifications that are valuable in an orthodontic office, like x-ray qualifications

Certified dental assistant resume

When applying for a job as a certified dental assistant, include such customizations to your resume as:

• Using numbers to show your value above other candidates
• List jobs in reverse-chronological order to focus first on your most relevant job experience
• Include past positions that bring relevant soft skills to a potential employer’s attention, even if the job title isn’t relevant

Your dental assistant resume recap

Congratulations  on taking the first step toward your career as a dental assistant! With a little thoughtful customization, your dental assistant pursuit is easily within reach. 

During the process, use our  online resume builder  to help you create your most effective product right from the start. If you already have a working draft, feel free to use our AI-powered  online resume checker  to polish your product for any future job applications.

Dental Assistant Resume Examples and Templates for 2024

• Resume Examples

How To Write a Dental Assistant Resume

• Resume Text Examples

To create a strong dental assistant resume, you’ll want to highlight the most compelling achievements from throughout your healthcare career. As you craft your resume, reflect on your career within the dental field and the impact you’ve had on patients, teams, and organizations. By detailing your own unique story within healthcare, you’ll be sure to make a lasting impression on the hiring manager. Throughout this guide, we’ll help you translate your professional experience into an impactful dental assistant resume.

• Entry-Level
• Senior-Level

1. Summarize your dental assistant qualifications in a dynamic profile

Your professional profile is often the first thing that hiring managers read on your resume. To make a lasting impression, you’ll want to create a compelling snapshot of your career within the dental field. Start by listing your title, years of experience, and three to four specializations that align with the job posting in your opening sentence. This will show prospective employers that you have the ideal qualifications that the organization is looking for. Patient education is especially important here, as one of the key aspects of being a dental assistant is providing education on oral health best practices for your patients.

Senior-Level Profile Example

A Certified Dental Assistant with six years of experience specializing in oral hygiene, dental surgical procedures, communication, and infection prevention. A strong history of educating patients on dental care best practices to promote long-term oral health.

Entry-Level Profile Example

A Certified Dental Assistant with three years of experience specializing in intra-oral techniques, patient care, dentistry, and communication. Adept at delivering medical support to dentists and keeping patients calm during oral surgeries and procedures.

2. Add a compelling section featuring your dental assistant experience

You want to highlight your strongest career achievements in your professional experience section. Rather than simply listing vague job descriptions, you should be specific about the types of dental procedures you have performed. This will show hiring managers that you have a comprehensive knowledge of dentistry and oral health. It’s also important to showcase your ability to interface effectively with patients. For instance, many patients suffer from anxiety before dental procedures, so you may want to draw attention to your ability to calm patients during oral surgeries.

Senior-Level Professional Experience Example

Dental Assistant, Orson & Crowell Dental Practice, New York, NY May 2019 – Present

• Support a practice of five dentists and three dental hygienists during fillings, tooth extractions, and oral surgeries
• Prepare patients for dental procedures by providing education on dental conditions, oral surgeries, and potential discomfort to reduce anxiety
• Prevent the risk of infection and disease by sterilizing instruments and ensuring compliance with Covid-19 and health safety protocols

Entry-Level Professional Experience Example

Dental Assistant, Rockstar Smiles, Seattle, WA October 2021 – Present

• Conduct panoramic dental X-rays to diagnose cavities, impacted wisdom teeth, and other dental conditions and provide education to patients on findings
• Provide support to dentists during root canals, extractions, and other dental procedures, including sterilizing instruments to prevent infection
• Create dental impressions, mix compounds in the laboratory, assist with denture fittings, and maintain inventory levels for dental equipment and supplies

3. Include education and certifications relevant to dental assistants

In addition to obtaining your initial dental assistant credentials, it may be beneficial to pursue other industry certifications. This will show prospective employers that you have specialized knowledge in key areas of oral care. For example, dental assistants perform X-rays on a regular basis, so you may want to obtain a certification in radiation health and safety.

Certifications

• [Certification Name], [Awarding Organization], [Completion Year]
• Certified Preventive Functions Dental Assistant (CPFDA), DANB, 2020
• Certified Dental Assistant – Radiation Health and Safety (RHS), DANB, 2019
• [Degree Name]
• [School Name], [City, State Abbreviation] [Dates Enrolled]
• Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) Dental Assisting
• SEATTLE CENTRAL COLLEGE, Seattle, WA September 2018 – June 2020

4. List dental assistant-related skills and proficiencies

Companies sometimes receive hundreds of applications in response to a single job advertisement, leaving them looking for ways to streamline the screening process. As a result, many companies use ATS software to scan resumes for specific keywords related to the job. If your resume doesn’t contain the right keywords, there’s a chance the software will reject it before a hiring manager sees it. To maximize your odds of landing the interview, you’ll want to incorporate as many key terms as possible from the job description. Below, you’ll find a list of potential skills you may encounter during the job search:

How to Pick the Best Dental Assistant Resume Template

Selecting a well-organized and straightforward template is the best approach for dental assistant resumes. Many candidates make the mistake of using modern templates with bulky graphics and flashy colors. This can often be distracting for the hiring manager. Remember, the most important aspect of the resume is your content, so you want to select a template that delivers key information as efficiently as possible.

Dental Assistant Text-Only Resume Templates and Examples

Allison Rosenberg (123) 456-7890 [email protected] LinkedIn | Portfolio Seattle, WA 12345

• Patient Education
• X-ray Exams
• Surgical Support
• Intra-oral Techniques

Professional Experience

Dental Assistant, Smile Better Dentistry, Seattle, WA June 2020 – October 2021

• Delivered support to dental teams for a variety of oral procedures, including wisdom teeth extractions, fillings, and root canals
• Educated patients on proper dental hygiene, brushing, and flossing techniques to prevent cavities and gum disease
• Certified Dental Assistant, DANB, State of Washington, 2020

Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) Dental Assisting Seattle Central College, Seattle, WA September 2018 – June 2020

Joseph Corbin (123) 456-7890 [email protected] LinkedIn | Portfolio Minneapolis, MN 12345

A Certified Dental Assistant with five years of experience providing oral care to adult and pediatric patients. A proven track record of communicating effectively with patients to reduce anxiety during oral procedures and ensure client satisfaction.

Dental Assistant, Handley Dental Practice, Minneapolis, MN July 2020 – Present

• Deliver medical support to dentists for cleanings, fillings, root canals, and tooth extractions and ensure compliance with Covid-19 safety protocols
• Educate patients on dental conditions, surgical procedures, oral care, and hygiene best practices to promote long-term dental health
• Communicate effectively with patients to reduce anxiety during oral surgeries and ensure comfort during procedures, resulting in a 93% satisfaction rating

Dental Assistant, Mariotti Dental, Minneapolis, MN June 2018 – July 2020

• Performed routine cleanings, conducted panoramic X-ray exams, utilized suction hoses, and supported dentists during oral surgeries by maintaining instruments
• Educated patients on oral hygiene care best practices and dental procedures to ease anxiety and ensure comfort during surgeries
• Certified Dental Assistant, DANB, State of Minnesota, 2018
• Dental Care
• Infection Control Procedures
• Oral Hygiene
• Communication

Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) Dental Assisting Minneapolis Community College, Minneapolis, MN September 2016 – June 2018

Yaling Zhang (123) 456-7890 [email protected] LinkedIn | Portfolio New York, NY 12345

Dental Assistant, Better Smiles Dentistry, New York, NY June 2017 – May 2019

• Performed X-ray exams to diagnose cavities, tooth decay, and dental problems and delivered support to dentists performing root canals, fillings, and extractions
• Communicated effectively with patients to lower anxiety prior to sedation and administration of local anesthetics
• Maintained and distributed instruments to dentists during procedures and applied dressings to the gums and palate to encourage clot formation
• Certified Dental Assistant, DANB, State of New York, 2017
• Oral Health
• Patient Relations
• Clinical Workflows

Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) Dental Assisting Kingsborough Community College, New York, NY September 2014 – June 2016

Frequently Asked Questions: Dental Assistant Resume Examples and Advice

What are common action verbs for dental assistant resumes -.

It’s easy to find yourself running short on action verbs during the resume-building process. Often, there’s only a limited number of verbs you can use to convey your professional experience accurately. Differentiating your usage of action verbs can enhance the reading experience and keep your content fresh. Below, you’ll find a list of verbs you can use to build out your bullet points:

How do you align your resume with a job description? -

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , dental assistant jobs are expected to grow 8% over the next decade. This amounts to 56,400 new openings each year. Despite the positive outlook for the dental industry, you’ll still need to align your resume with the job description to differentiate yourself from the competition.

Before submitting your resume, you should carefully analyze the job description for the company you’re applying to. You want to ensure that your document captures key terms and qualifications to match the needs of that organization. Be sure to prioritize key skills that are featured towards the top of the job posting, as these tend to have added weight.

What is the best dental assistant resume format? -

Reverse chronological is the recommended format for dental assistant resumes. This ensures that your most recent and relevant experience is featured at the top of your document. A functional approach is generally considered to be a poor approach by most recruiters, as skill-based resumes lack depth and have minimal content.

Including a matching cover letter can help bolster your chances of landing the interview. If you choose to submit a cover letter for a job opening, you should be sure to customize it to that opportunity. You also should make a point to mention something about the dental practice’s reputation or culture and why it draws you to apply for the position. For more insights, visit our dental assistant cover letter guide .

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Frank Hackett

Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW)

Frank Hackett is a professional resume writer and career consultant with over eight years of experience. As the lead editor at a boutique career consulting firm, Frank developed an innovative approach to resume writing that empowers job seekers to tell their professional stories. His approach involves creating accomplishment-driven documents that balance keyword optimization with personal branding. Frank is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) with the Professional Association of Resume Writers and Career Coaches (PAWRCC).

Check Out Related Examples

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• • Assisted in over 500 dental procedures, including fillings, extractions, and root canals, maintaining a 99% patient satisfaction rate.
• • Managed patient records and appointments using Dentrix software, resulting in a 20% increase in clinic efficiency.
• • Implemented a new sterilization protocol for dental instruments, reducing cross-contamination risks by 30%.
• • Shadowed experienced dental assistants in over 200 implant procedures, gaining valuable insights into complex dental care.
• • Contributed to patient education on post-surgical care, leading to a 15% decrease in post-operative complications.
• • Organized dental supplies inventory, ensuring availability of necessary materials for all scheduled procedures.

11 Dental Assistant Resume Examples & Guide for 2024

Your dental assistant resume must clearly highlight your clinical skills. Include any specialized training, such as in radiology or infection control. Additionally, your dental assistant resume should showcase your patient care abilities. Demonstrate experience with dental health procedures and patient communication.

All resume examples in this guide

Senior Dental Assistant

Entry Level Dental Assistant

Pediatric Dental Assistant

Dental Hygienist

Dental Assistant-In-Training

Oral Surgery Assistant

Orthodontic Dental Assistant

Dental Hygiene Assistant

Expanded Functions Dental Assistant

Certified Dental Assistant

Dental Assistant | Patient Care | Radiology resume example

Resume Guide

Dental Assistant Resume Example

Resume Format

Resume Experience

Hard & Soft Skills

Certifications & Education

Resume Summary Tips

Additional Resume Sections

Key Takeaways

By Experience

Like chameleons, dental assistants adapt to their environment, fitting in wherever needed. Scheduling appointments, greeting patients with a friendly smile, prepping rooms and equipment, assisting in procedures, managing office supplies and patient records, dental assistants are the unsung heroes of the dental office.

This guide, with examples and pro-tips, will ensure your numerous skills and qualifications are evident in the limited space available on your dental assistant resume. As well as addressing these common resume-writing challenges dental assistants encounter:

• C ertification and licensure requirements for dental assistants vary based on location and employer, making it difficult to determine which to include on your resume.
• As a dental assistant, you may have diverse skill sets, and choosing the most relevant ones for a particular job can be difficult.
• Choosing the most effective keywords for your resume can be tricky since they may vary among dental assistant jobs.
• The high demand for dental assistants means many enter the field without prior experience.  We have tips and tricks to help you combat that.

To see additional resumes and cover letter guides for related positions, check out these as well:

• Dental nurse resume & guide
• Dental hygienist resume & guide
• Entry level dental assistant resume & guide
• Pediatric dental assistant resume & guide
• Dental assistant cover letter & guide  

Dental assistant  resume example

Here's what this applicant does well in their resume:

• Highlighting practical experience: The resume effectively showcases hands-on experience in dental procedures, including assisting in over 500 dental procedures and gaining experience in a dental implant center. This demonstrates practical skills crucial for a Dental Assistant.
• Quantifying achievements: By quantifying achievements, like a 99% patient satisfaction rate and reducing post-operative complications by 15%, the resume conveys the applicant's effectiveness and impact in previous roles.
• Specialized certifications and skills: Including a Certified Dental Assistant certification and specialized training in Radiology Safety and Techniques, along with skills in patient care, radiology, and Dentrix software, aligns well with the requirements for a Dental Assistant role.

How to format a dental assistant  resume

Your resume’s formatting is an opportunity to demonstrate technical skills in creating well-formatted, easy-to-read documents, an administrative task you may be asked to perform as a dental assistant.

To ensure your resume is well-organized, professional, and memorable, follow these formatting best practices:

• Creative Elements: Include creative elements  like colors and decorative patterns to make your resume unique and memorable.
• Header Content: A prominent header  featuring your name, desired job title, and contact information  lets employers view them at a glance.  
• Ordering: List all section examples in reverse chronological order  to ensure your most recent and relevant appear first.

Understanding Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) is critical when formatting your dental assistant resume.

ATS analyzes text on resumes, looking for exact keywords or phrases corresponding to desired skills and qualifications for a specific job. Employers use these systems to quickly sort and prioritize resumes to consider the most qualified candidates.

Here’s what’s considered “best practices” for ATS-optimized formatting on your dental assistant resume:

• Fonts: Select ATS-friendly fonts matching the overall style of your resume. Some ATS-friendly fonts are Calibri, Arial, and Times New Roman. However, by employing these overused fonts, you may miss a chance to make your resume stand out. For interesting, modern font options with great readability, try Rubik, Lato, Montserrat, Raleway, Exo 2, or Volkhov, all available on the Enhancv Resume Builder.
• Document Type: PDF files  are standard for resumes to ensure formatting is maintained and ATS can easily identify and analyze text.
• Creative Elements in Text: Avoid using nonessential stylistic features within text. Elements such as emojis for bullets and non-standard date formats can impede ATS’ ability to recognize information in these sections.
• Headings and Subheadings: Ensure resume sections are organized and include simple, precise headings. Standard section titles ensure ATS accurately recognizes and extracts information from these sections.

Is your resume good enough?

Drop your resume here or choose a file . PDF & DOCX only. Max 2MB file size.

To improve the organization and ATS optimization of your resume, include the following top-recommended sections:

The top sections on a dental assistant resume:

• Contact Information: This allows prospective employers to know who the resume belongs to and how to get in touch with the candidate.
• Personal Statement: A brief, concise explanation of the candidate's motivation for becoming a dental assistant and the unique skills or experiences they bring.
• Certifications and Licenses: In the field of dental assistance, certain qualifications or licenses can be legally required, proving the candidate's ability to carry out the specific tasks.
• Experience: A short history of the candidate's related work experience to verify their skills.
• Clinical skills: Recruiters prioritize proficiency in clinical tasks central to patient care.
• Administrative skills: These are vital to maintaining patient records and office efficiency.

While applicants may have unique backgrounds and qualifications, be sure to include these highly sought-after qualifications on your dental assistant resume when possible:

What recruiters want to see on your resume:

• Dental a ssisting c ertification: Many states require dental assistants to be certified, so this is often a top priority for recruiters to ensure the candidate meets legal requirements.
• Experience with d ental s oftware: Knowledge of specific dental software such as Dentrix or Eaglesoft shows an ability to manage patient data and scheduling, which can be critical in dental offices.
• X-Ray c ertification: In many cases, dental assistants might be required to take x-rays; hence having this certification can make the candidate more attractive to recruiters.
• Basic l ife s upport s kills: Dental procedures can sometimes lead to medical emergencies, so candidates with life support skills are typically highly valued.
• Chairside m anner: Recruiters often prioritize dental assistants who demonstrate good interpersonal skills, as they need to interact with patients, easing their worries and explaining procedures.

How to write your dental assistant resume experience

The daily responsibilities of dental assistants vary depending on their credentials and the size and specialization of the dental office where they work. Therefore, it’s critical to highlight employment experiences requiring equivalent skills to the position you are applying for.  

To quickly and easily create a targeted dental assistant resume  for each application, follow these steps:  

• Create a resume template including a complete list of your experiences, certifications, education, and skills.
• Make a copy of the template for each new application.
• Review the job description for each new job you apply to, paying close attention to the ideal candidate description.
• In the copy of the template, delete all examples that don't align with the job description.
• Edit remaining examples to ensure they include keywords  directly copied from the job description for increased ATS optimization.

The experience section  of your dental assistant resume should be more than a list of tasks you performed. It’s an opportunity to share the specialized skills you developed and the achievements you made in those past positions. This reveals not only what you did but how successfully you did it.

Take a look at the following experience examples to better understand how focusing on achievements rather than duties improves an experience description.

• • Worked reception answering phone calls, scheduling appointments, and checking in patients.
• • Assisted the dentist in various procedures.
• • Conducted preliminary patient assessments and recorded medical histories.
• • Updated patient records using electronic health records (EHR) systems.

This applicant fails to use active verbs and specific details to document their accomplishments in this role. The description of their duties comes off as generic and doesn’t reflect how well they performed these tasks, which could set them apart from other applicants who performed many of the same tasks.

• • Managed front desk responsibilities, seeing an average of 30 patients daily, including scheduling appointments, answering phone calls, and handling patient inquiries with professionalism and courtesy.
• • Created education flyers to distribute to patients on topics including post-treatment care, oral hygiene practices, and preventive measures, contributing to improved patient satisfaction and compliance.
• • Collaborated with the dental team to implement infection control protocols, maintaining a safe and hygienic working environment.
• • Successfully completed 8 bi-annual professional development sessions to stay current with industry trends, technologies, and best practices.

This applicant does an excellent job using active verbs to indicate they not only performed their assigned duties but actively contributed by managing, creating, collaborating on, and completing them. It’s evident from this description that the applicant was successful and gained valuable experience in this job.

Additionally, they do a nice job including examples and keywords to describe their skills and qualifications for ATS optimization.

How to quantify impact on your resume

An excellent way to stand out amongst other applicants and boost your resume impact  is to include quantifiable evidence of your skills and abilities in your experience descriptions. These are tangible, measurable, or verifiable details that highlight your accomplishments  in past jobs.

The example above provides an excellent example of incorporating quantifiable evidence:

“Successfully completed 8 bi-annual professional development sessions to stay current with industry trends, technologies, and best practices.”

This applicant stated the number of professional development sessions completed to clarify their dedication to continued learning and staying current in the industry.

In addition to sharing the number of completed training sessions, workshops, or certifications, there are many other ways to quantify your impact. Here are a few additional options for using numbers and data  to quantify your skills in your experience descriptions:

• Share a percentage increase in efficiency or patient satisfaction to illustrate the effectiveness of your efforts.
• State the number of patients assisted daily to demonstrate efficiency and capacity to manage a fast-paced environment and large workload.
• Note how many dental procedures you are proficient in to highlight your diverse skill set.
• Identify the size of office staff you've worked with to indicate your experience collaborating as a team member.
• Detail the number of patient records you've managed to showcase your ability to organize and maintain high volumes of patient data.
• Share the amount of office management software or dental equipment you're proficient using to emphasize your technical acumen.
• Mention reductions in wait times or operational costs you contributed to illustrate your efficiency and attention to detail.

When including numbers and statistics, be selective by only mentioning data relevant to the position you're applying for. For example, a small dental practice focused on positive patient experience will be more impressed by how your efforts resulted in an increased percentage of patient satisfaction than how many patients you treated daily in a large, fast-paced dental office.

How do I write a dental assistant resume with no experience

Some employers offer applicants on-the-job training or certification contingent employment, creating opportunities for applicants without prior dental assistant experience.

However, there are additional considerations to keep in mind when writing a dental assistant resume with no experience . A crucial element is ensuring experiences highlight transferable skills, such as employment, temp work , or even medical or dental office volunteering.

Follow these steps to write an experience section highlighting transferable skills without dental assistant experience:

• Compile a list of keywords from the job description.
• Brainstorm previous employment, educational, or volunteer experiences that showcase the same keyword skills and knowledge from the job description.
• To add credibility, include tangible evidence of these skills, such as certifications, achievements, and quantifiable data.
• Avoid including irrelevant work experiences  or outdated experiences .
• List experiences in reverse chronological order to ensure your most recent and relevant examples appear first.

Don’t worry about explaining or giving details about how your transferable skills align with the job you are applying for in your resume. Your  dental assistant cover letter  is an excellent opportunity to detail further how your background aligns with the open position.

Without dental assistant experience, this section aims to share related jobs and transferable skills, especially those in medical or dental environments. The best way to demonstrate your potential to succeed in the available position is to utilize keywords from the job description in your examples.

How to list your hard skills and soft skills on your resume

The skills section  of your dental assistant resume can be intimidating since an extensive list may be necessary to highlight the broad range of skills required of dental assistants.

Include subsections where appropriate to keep your skills lists manageable—for instance, listing hard and soft skills in separate sections. In addition, you can organize hard skills by creating subsections for clinical and administrative skills.

Additionally, you can trim a lengthy skills section by tailoring it to the desired position. The skills an employer values most will depend on many factors, such as the size of the office, patient demographics, number of employees, and dental specialty. Therefore, it's not necessary to include every skill for every application.

Hard skills - in a nutshell

Hard skills  are skills necessary to perform a particular job. They typically require study, training, and practice.

 In the dental field, hard skills often require certification and reflect technical abilities, like using office software and dental equipment or performing dental procedures.

When brainstorming hard skills to include on your dental assistant resume, consult this list of top sought by employers in the field:

Best clinical hard skills for your dental assistant resume

• Dental X-ray photography
• Dental impression molding
• Sterilization techniques
• Dental instrument preparation
• Dental procedure assisting
• Coronal polishing
• Fluoride application
• Sealant application
• Infection control
• First aid and CPR
• Oral evacuation
• Digital radiography
• Photography
• Dental health education
• Restorative procedures
• Orthodontic procedures
• Periodontal dressings

Best administrative hard skills for your dental assistant resume

• Administrative Skills
• Patient management software
• Dental coding and billing
• Supply inventory management
• HIPAA compliance
• Dental office management

Soft  skills - in a nutshell

Soft skills  are intrinsic, personal skills demonstrating the kind of employee you'll be. In a dental office, these skills enable you to provide excellent patient care and satisfaction. For example, in the dental field, compassion, empathy, and active listening are valued regardless of the office in which you work.

These are some of the top soft skills employers look for in dental assistant applicants:

Best soft skills for your dental assistant resume

• Communication skills
• Interpersonal skills
• Attention to detail
• Time management
• Stress management
• Critical thinking
• Problem-solving
• Adaptability
• Listening skills
• Organizational skills
• Professionalism
• Trustworthiness
• Tact and diplomacy
• Customer service skills

Follow these steps to write your dental assistant skills sections:

• Format your skills section as a simple list without elaboration or examples.
• Differentiate between hard and soft skills by listing them in separate subsections.
• Consider organizing your hard skills further by adding subheadings for clinical skills and administrative skills.
• Target your skills section using keyword skills from the job description.
• Write these keyword skills precisely as they appear in the job description to enhance ATS analysis.
• Never lie about or exaggerate your skills on your resume.
• Ensure consistency between your experience and skills sections by listing the skills mentioned in the experience section in the skills section and vice versa.

In general, employers are willing to offer training in hard skills. However, the intrinsic nature of soft skills makes them difficult to teach. Therefore, it's essential to tailor your resume's hard skills for each application and to include as many keyword soft skills as possible.

How to list your certifications and education on your resume

While certification is not always required, many employers prefer applicants with a general dental assisting certification. Beyond that, there are numerous expanded dental functions certifications (EDFC) available to enable Certified Dental Assistants (CDAs) to perform specialized tasks such as performing X-rays.

Your resume's education and certifications sections should reinforce your skills sections as evidence supporting your stated skills.

To write your dental assistant certification section and education section, follow these steps:

• Create separate sections titled “Education” and  “Certifications” to allow ATS to parse information from your resume accurately.
• List all degrees and certifications in reverse chronological order, putting your most recent and relevant at the top.

Education Specific  best practices :

• For each degree, include the name of the university, its’ location, the dates you attended, and the title of your degree.
• Continuing education courses , like those required for a CDA, should be listed in the education section.
• Including your GPA is optional unless the job description specifies a minimum GPA requirement.
• You can include brief statements about relevant exceptional  coursework achievements  in the example description.
• Only include your major and minor  if relevant to the desired position or if it provides relevant information about your background. For example, a minor in Spanish may be appropriate. However, a minor in Dance probably isn’t.

Here’s an example of how an excellent education example:

• • Earned perfect scores in all 10 required courses.
• • Completed a supervised clinical externship, gaining practical experience in assisting with various dental procedures and leading to my first dental assistant employment.

Best practices for listing examples on your resume’s certification section :

• Include the name of the certification, the certifying institution, and the year obtained.
• When appropriate, consider listing certifications under the subheadings “Clinical Certifications” and “Administrative Certifications” for clarity.
• Limit certifications to current, unexpired credentials. For example, if you were certified in CPR four years ago and never renewed, you shouldn't list this since CPR certification is only valid for two years.
• If a certification requires renewal to remain valid, include the date first acquired as well as the most recent renewal date or a "valid through" date. For certifications you have held long-term, this demonstrates soft skills such as organization and responsibility.
• Limit your certifications to only those specifically named or directly related to the required skills mentioned in the job description.

Here’s an example of how a certification item requiring renewal should look on your dental assistant resume:

If you're considering adding a dental assistant certification to your resume, check out one of these highly sought-after by employers.

Best certifications for your dental assistant resume

• Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) by the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB)
• Registered Dental Assistant with Expanded Functions (RDAEF) by Various State Dental Boards (specific websites vary by state)
• Certified Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Assistant (COMSA) by the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB)
• Certified Restorative Functions Dental Assistant (CRFDA) by the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB)
• Certified Dental Practice Management Administrator (CDPMA) by the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB)

It's essential to be selective when writing your dental assistant resume's education and certifications sections.

Some employers may sift through long lists. However, others will only take a cursory look before determining whether or not your background will suit their needs. Therefore, limiting your qualifications to highlight those that best demonstrate your ability to succeed is critical.

How to write your dental assistant resume summary or objective

A summary or objective section, sometimes called “ Resume Profiles ” or “ Personal Statements ,” allows you to briefly contextualize how the data and facts on your resume correspond to your career progression and goals.

These sections demonstrate your suitability for the position, which may not be evident, particularly if you don’t have prior experience as a dental assistant.

Regardless of which personal statement you select, it should clarify how your experiences and qualifications make you a suitable candidate for an available job.

Follow these best practices when writing either a summary or an objective:

• Customize the statement to match the specific job you're applying for, emphasizing relevant skills and experiences.
• Start sentences with action verbs to make your summary dynamic and impactful.
• Be brief. A summary should only be 3-5 sentences.

The difference between a summary and an objective is the focus on either your past experiences or future career goals.

A resume summary  focuses on your past work experience and how it aligns with an available job. On the other hand, a resume objective  focuses on your future career goals to illustrate how they correspond with the position.

A summary is preferable for dental assistants with extensive experience well aligned to the available job, for example, in the same dental specialty. It highlights how your past success indicates your potential to succeed in that particular role.

To write a summary for your dental assistant resume , follow these best practices:  

• Highlight your most relevant skills or experiences that directly overlap with the job description.
• Briefly mention your years of experience to provide context for your level of expertise.
• Write an impactful summary using keywords  directly from the job description, highlighting your well-aligned keyword experiences and skills.
• Use details such as naming specific software, dental equipment, procedures, and certifications to reinforce the relevance of your experiences.  
• Convey your enthusiasm for the opportunity to continue providing high-quality patient care in the dental field in this position.

Check out how the following summary is improved by including specific details to reinforce skills.

This applicant overlooks several opportunities to include specific details, such as examples of procedures they are proficient in, contributions they’ve made, and their specific certification to incorporate keywords and ensure their qualifications are evident to the employer.

This applicant includes specific examples of tasks they are proficient in, procedures they've performed, and their impact on patient satisfaction. They also named the professional organization where they completed their continuing education. These details lend authority to their stated skills and qualifications and enhance ATS analysis by including keywords from the job description.

An objective section is a better option for dental assistants with limited experience or who are applying for their first job. It allows you to focus on how you plan to use your background to achieve career goals while contributing to the success of the office.

To write your dental assistant resume objective, follow these best practices:

• Describe the type of position you are seeking.
• Share relevant or transferable skills   that will help you succeed in the position using keywords  directly from the job description .
• Clearly state your career goals and enthusiasm to work towards them in the role.
• Highlight valuable contributions you can make while learning and gaining experience.
• Avoid generic phrases. Instead, focus on specific skills and goals that set you apart.

Rephrasing specifics from the “Qualifications” or “Ideal Candidate” sections of a job description is a great way to guarantee you mention the skills and qualifications most valued by the employer.

Additional sections for a dental assistant resume

In addition to the top-resume sections , consider including one or more of these optional resume sections  to highlight specific qualifications or accomplishments that will help you stand out among the other dental assistant applicants.

• Languages: Excellent patient communication is a cornerstone of patient care. Therefore, being multilingual is a valuable asset in patient-centric environments. Including a language section  is an effective way to set yourself apart from other applicants.
• Achievements and Awards: If you’ve received recognition for your work in the past, consider including an awards and achievements section  as evidence to support your stated soft skills. In addition to individual awards, you can include awards your office received, such as being voted the top healthcare facility in your community.
• Professional Associations: A professional Associations section highlights your dedication to ongoing improvement and staying current in dentistry. If you’d like to include a professional association membership to your resume, consider joining one of the leading professional associations for dental assistants below.

Professional associations for dental assistants

These prominent professional associations for dental assistants provide resources, support, and opportunities for networking and continuing education:

• American Dental Assistants Association ( ADAA )
• American Association of Dental Office Management ( AADOM )
• National Dental Assistants Association ( NDAA )
• Academy of Chairside Assisting ( ACA )
• American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry ( AAPD )

Individualizing your resume with tailored sections ensures it reflects all your top qualifications and stands out among other applicants. Should you include sections other than those above, be sure they use catchy, ATS-friendly headings .

How to write a specialization section

If you have extensive experience or certifications in a particular dental specialty directly corresponding to an available job, consider including a specialization section to highlight these qualifications.

Your dental assistant specialization section should include the following:

• The title of your dental assistant specialization
• Relevant training or certifications
• Specialty-specific billing and coding experience
• Technical skills  related to using software and equipment
• Skills and expertise in performing specialized dental procedures
• Relevant soft skills, for instance, patience and communication, are vital when working with children in a pediatric dental office.

Here’s an example of how your specialization section should appear on your resume:

Only include a specialization section that demonstrates extensive knowledge, skills, and qualifications if applicable to the available dental assistant position. For instance, the example above would be relevant to a family or pediatric dental office. However, it would not likely be relevant enough to include as a separate section for work in a prosthodontic office.  In this case, these skills may be mentioned in the other resume sections , such as the experience section, to demonstrate your capacity to learn specialized skills.

Key takeaways

Selecting among the multitude of skills and qualifications required for dental assisting is one of the and most challenging aspects when writing a resume.

To ensure your dental assistant resume accurately reflects your most valuable, unique skills, experiences, and qualifications, review these key takeaways:

• Targeted resumes include only examples relevant to the available position as found in the job description.
• ATS-optimized formatting helps ensure your dental assistant resume reaches employers.
• Provide quantifiable evidence of achievements in previous dental offices to demonstrate your impact in past jobs.
• Include clinical and administrative hard skills as well as transferable soft skills, using precise wording for enhanced ATS optimization.
• List relevant education and certifications demonstrating your dentistry knowledge and qualifications.
• Give context to the information on your resume by including either a summary or an objective section, depending on your experience level in similar dental assistant positions.
• Use additional sections to showcase credentials that don't fit within other resume sections.
• Include a specialization section when your past dental assistant employment is in a similar environment to the available position to highlight your expertise.

Dental Assistant resume examples

Explore additional dental assistant resume samples and guides and see what works for your level of experience or role.

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Dental Assistant job description

This  Dental Assistant job description template is optimized for posting on online job boards or careers pages and easy to customize for your company.

Nikoletta holds an MSc in HR management and has written extensively about all things HR and recruiting.

Dental Assistant responsibilities include:

• Welcoming customers in the dental office
• Preparing customers for treatments or checkups ensuring their comfort
• Selecting and setting up instruments, equipment and material needed

Want to generate a unique job description?

Looking for a job.

We are looking for a competent dental assistant who will make the dentist’s office more efficient and pleasant for patients. You’ll ensure excellent customer service and lift administrative and basic dental tasks off the dentist’s shoulders.

Dental assistants should be well-organized with great attention to detail. You should be able to follow instructions and respect dental office regulations. We want you to be skilled in providing direct or indirect patient care and able to make office procedures as smooth as possible.

Responsibilities

• Welcome customers in the dental office
• Prepare customers for treatments or checkups ensuring their comfort
• Select and set up instruments, equipment and material needed
• Sterilize instruments according to regulations
• Assist the dentist through 4-handed dentistry
• Undertake lab tasks as instructed
• Provide oral hygiene and post-operative care instructions
• Keep the dental room clean and well-stocked
• Schedule appointments
• Maintain accurate patient records and assist with payment procedures

Requirements and skills

• Proven experience as dental assistant
• Knowledge of dental instruments and sterilization methods
• Understanding of health & safety regulations
• Ability to perform regulated non-surgical tasks like coronal polishing is a plus
• Good computer skills
• Excellent communication and people skills
• Attention to detail
• Well-organized and reliable
• High school diploma; graduating from dental assistant school is preferred
• Additional certification or training is an asset (e.g. EFDA)

Post this Dental Assistant job to over 200 job boards at once.

Related job descriptions.

• Dentist job description
• Dental Hygienist job description
• Medical Secretary job description

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• Entry-level interview questions and answers
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Dental Assistant Resumes & Writing Guide

Are you looking for a job as a Dental Assistant? If you are as passionate about keeping people's pearly whites in tip-top shape, as we are about resume compilation, then scroll further. Included below are examples of Dental Assistant Resumes and a fantastic guideline, outlining all the neat tricks of the resume trade to assist you in producing a stellar application.

It takes a particular type of person to be content in poking around teeth all day, and the demand for Dental Assistants is definitely growing. With that said, the possibility of landing a job is by no means guaranteed, and you need an on-point resume to make the best possible first impression. Use our Dental Assistant resume samples and accompanying write-up as tools to help in placing your resume at the front of the interview line.

What you can read in this article

17 Dental Assistant Resume Examples

(Free sample downloads are at the bottom of this page)

Dental Assistant Resume Writing Guide

Resume sections.

1. Contact Information:

• Phone Numbers
• Email Address

These days it helps to include social media handles such as Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and if you make videos of your day job, Tik-Tok won't hurt. (Prospective employers may learn a lot about your personality by stalking your social media activities). Today 87% of recruiters find their candidates on Linkedin, for example, so a cool idea would be to recreate your Linkedin Profile while you are drafting your resume document.

2. Career Summary: Authenticity is crucial in the job-seeking environment, and your career summary should be a truthful display of your professional self, written in 3-4 sentences. Use a different font to make sure this paragraph catches the eyes of recruiters and hiring managers. Include years of experience, specialist dental skills, qualifications, and one or two valuable interpersonal traits and string them together in concise, informative sentences.

3. Qualifications Summary: There are several career paths to becoming a Dental Assistant, and not all of them require a formal associate or bachelor's degree. Check with your state's Dental Association to ascertain the qualifications and certifications required. In some states, you may need to participate in a formal accreditation program and pass an entry exam, wherein others a certain amount of on the job training hours should be accumulated. Most programs take 1-2 years to complete, and then you will receive accreditation from the American Dental Association, which is excellent to prove theoretical and practical experience to prospective employers.

4. Relevant Dental Assistant Experience: You may use a functional or chronological format to present experience and skills on your Dental Assistant Resume. The first entails a combined experience and skills section where you would display all your academic and practical knowledge in bullet point format without linking them to a specific job you had in the past. The second format is where you would divide your experience per the jobs you have held with 4-5 bulleted job duties under each role performed. Both works fine, but the essence should be on the most important responsibilities that align with those mentioned in the job advertisement. From formatting, perspective makes use of ample white space, big headings, and clear, legible fonts.

5. Skills Summary/Key Skills: The average Dentist would skim a resume in a few seconds, looking for dental terminology, the names of the instruments, and dental procedures. Make their lives easier by including a dedicated section to skills and competencies that is a showcase of your work tenure. Read through the job advertisement a few times and highlight the top preferred requirements and minimum requirements. Now mirror these in your resume. A skills matrix format is a smart way to do this (we have included an example later in this write-up).

6. Certification/Licensing: For generic Dental Assistant roles, you do not require any specific licenses or certifications. However, if you want permission to perform more expansive tasks licensing, registration and certifications are required. Verify with the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) regarding the specialist tasks you are interested in performing, for example, coronal polishing, teeth whitening, or surgical support for in-practice operations. Most Dental Assistant roles would require certification in CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation). Add licensing and certificates to your Education Section and include details such as credential name, institution attended, date completed, course topics, and hours accumulated if applicable.

What to Highlight in a Dental Assistant Resume

Many candidates often ask “What should I highlight in my Dental Assistant Resume”?, when trying to draft their application. Your resume should be no more than two pages, which makes it difficult to distinguish between relevant and less important duties and skills. The purpose of a Dental Assistant is to provide procedure support, hand out instruments, take x-rays, schedule appointments, and sanitize equipment. Let's have a look at the most critical points to highlight on your dental assistant resume to ensure you present an informative document to hiring managers.

First, provide information about your technical tenure; in other words, the procedures you are familiar with. These may include offering preventive services such as general check-ups or hygiene activities or restorative functions like assisting with fillings or root canals.

Also include details about your working environment. Are you working for a solo dentist's operation where you are the only dental assistant, or do you service a few dentists in a group practice? You may also be working at a hospital assisting with dental surgeries. Some dental assistants work in the public health industry, so be sure to mention if you operate at a clinic, hospice, school, or community health center. Academic institutions always make use of dental assists to assist students studying dentistry, and you could include the places that you offer service to such as dental school clinics, colleges or university hospitals, public health dentistry, including settings such as schools and clinics which focus on the prevention of dental problems within entire communities.

You may also have transitioned from physical dentistry into commercial practice and be responsible for processing dental insurance claims for healthcare providers or work directly for an insurance company as a technical advisor approving or rejecting claims. There is a growing trend to use dental assistants for lab work, such as making casts of patients: teeth or preparing materials for implants and crowns. The type of environment you are in will also determine your availability in terms of working hours and emergency call-outs.

Next up, are the specialty areas that you focus on, for example, periodontics, pediatric dentistry, orthodontics, and oral surgeries. Be sure to drill down on the exact procedures you of have been part of for each specialty. Dentists will want to know if you have experience in assisting with maxillofacial surgery or dentofacial orthopedics if your specialty is assisting in theatre. If endodontics/periodontics has been where most of your experience is gained, then competencies in root canal treatments, replacing teeth, and treating gum issues would be of interest. In pediatric dentistry, employers would want to see the average ages of children you have treated and your skills with local anesthesia submission.

All Dental Assistants complete general tasks, such as helping Dentists with procedures and keeping patient records. However, some procedures could be regulated by your specific state, and if you are allowed to perform them, it would definitely be to your advantage. These include Coronal polishing, Sealant application, Fluoride application, and Topical anesthetics' application. Be sure to mention these and included the number of years or a number of years of experience or the number of procedures done regarding these.

Patient relationships are a crucial aspect of a Dental Assistant role. Explain to recruiters how you would forge relationships with patients, make them comfortable, educate them about proper oral hygiene, and outline the treatments they are about to receive in a simplified manner.

The generic duties should also receive attention, for example, sterilizing instruments, organizing tools and equipment on the dentistry table, providing suction and cleaning during procedures, taking Xrays, asking patients about medical history, taking blood pressure, and executing infection protocols before during and after procedures have been done.

Finally, be sure to detail your administrative and general operational skills. Dentists prefer Dental Assistants that are competent in a wide variety of dental practice operations. This may include processing Xrays, record lab tasks, and procedure codes for invoicing purposes, sending out bills, following up on payments, scheduling appointments, and making after-service calls to patients.

Tools and Technology

No Dental Assistant resume would be complete without a Tools and Technology Section. Use a table format to give recruiters an instant view of the software, equipment, and instruments you are using daily. It could look something like this:

Dental Assistant Resume Summary

Your resume profile synopsis forms an integral part of your Dental Assistant resume. The trick to making a memorable impression with every application is customization. The rest of your resume may need a few tweaks for each role you apply to. Still, the profile synopsis should be changed to relate to the position you are applying for—more work, but its value in gold when you start receiving those interview invitations.

The summary should consist of resume contributions, an accomplishment or special skills, the most relevant experience, and the highest certification achieved. All of this condensed in 3-6 sentences that will impress the heck out of prospective employers. Recruiters are not stupid – a half-hearted resume summary will be spotted immediately and with that wipe any chances of being shortlisted.

A wise strategy is to replicate the terms and words used in the job advertisement in your snapshot summary. By doing this, you will be reinforcing the message that you are a good fit for the role.

Example Resume Summaries:

Four years of experience example 1.

Compassionate and diligent Dental Assistant with four years of experience in supporting a busy solo dental practice. Adept at prepping consultation rooms, laying out instruments, and acting as the dentists second hand during procedures. Excellent at time management running the administrative side of the practice, Highly skilled in operating radiography equipment and processing X-Rays.

Experienced Example 2

Patient-focused Dental Assistant with excellent knowledge regarding most recent at-home care practices related to oral hygiene and preventative dental care. A member of the Dental Assistant's Association and frequent recipient of the top Dental Assistant quarterly award in the county. An average score of 95% from monthly customer satisfaction surveys for the last 24 months—specialist knowledge of pediatric dental; procedures and alternative anesthetics protocols. Currently busy with an Advanced Diploma in Non-Invasive Dental Procedures.

10 Years + of Experience Example 3

Well, tenured Dental Assistant with over a decade of experience in public health dentistry environments. Excellent understanding of mold and cast manufacturing to treat a variety of cosmetic dental issues in older patients. Well adapted to a fast-paced environment, often marred with challenges such as lack of funding and supply shortages. Known for building long-lasting relationships and rapport with patients.

Dental Assistant Job Descriptions, Responsibilities and Duties

To be an efficient Dental Assistant and perform your daily tasks with the utmost professionalism, you need a comprehensive skill set, including technical, client relations, and administrative competencies. Make sure to sprinkle the keywords from the job advertisement through your duty descriptions. We have creative a well-rounded Dental Assistant job description below for you to use as-is or tweak to fit your own unique working experience.

Dental Assistant Job Description:

• Provide chair-side support to a solo Dentist practice
• Prioritize patient care and oral hygiene education
• Assist with filling, extraction, and crowns procedures
• Taking impressions and pouring them into molds
• Prepare patients for in-room surgeries
• Keep detailed records of all procedures and sundries used to update claim forms according to universal dental practice codes
• Prepare and sanitize examination areas before each appointment
• Operate equipment and monitors per instruction of the dentist
• Layout instruments on the dentistry table before each procedure
• Sterilize equipment and instruments used during procedures
• Administer fluoride molds and conduct teeth polishing after check-up is completed
• Responsible for office administration such as appointments, aftercare calls, invoicing, and healthcare insurance claims
• Perform lab duties such as mixing materials for molds and casts
• Conduct a weekly stock take to top up sundries and pharmaceutical products
• Manage finances and track patient payments
• Responsible for tracking insurance claims and progress reports regarding claims payouts
• Fill in new patient records and update current patient particulars

Specialist Descriptions that may be added to general duties include:

• Expanded Function Dental Assistant (EFDA) – Place fillings and administer sealants without the supervision of a registered dentist.
• Dental Assistant Instructor – Educate students regarding the basics of oral hygiene and dentistry such as radiology, dental tools, surgical instruments, general dental practice operations.
• Dental Sales Representative – Familiar with technical dental procedures and equipment as well as new products and machinery is entering the market. Work closely with practice owns to ascertain product need
• Dental Hygienist – Provide preventive dental care, examine teeth and gums, do a comprehensive cleaning of teeth and explain oral hygiene practices to patients.
• Dental Consultant – Oversee the dental practice and suggest improvements to increase practice efficiency, branding, and cashflow.

Highlight Your Accomplishments

Dentists and practice managers are busy people and do not have the time to review every resume that comes across their desks in detail. Therefore, your Dental Assistant resume should grab their attention for the right reasons.

Use accomplishment statements to prove to them that you have the necessary skills and competencies that will add value to their business. Accomplishment statements should be measurable and include numerical values like timeframes, frequencies, volumes, ranking, and percentages. If you quantify your accomplishment statements in this manner, your chances of landing an interview will improve considerably.

To start with, write down achievements, commendations, patient scores, and responsibilities that you can link numbers to. Then pick 4-6 of the most impressionable ones and use that as your accomplishment statements. These achievements should be significant enough to make you stand out from the rest of the resume pack.

To help you get a head start, try to answer the questions below:

• What is the number of patients you see on average in a day?
• What is the average duration of a procedure?
• What percentage of claims get accepted and paid out each month?
• How many times do you take vital signs in a day?
• What type of medical procedures can you perform, and how many of these have you performed?

Accomplishment Statement Examples:

• Receive an average of 5 patient thank you letters per month for oral hygiene procedures performed, and maintained a 95% score in the quarterly customer satisfaction survey
• Received four commendations for efficient four-handed dentistry from the Association for Dental Assistants quality review panel
• Reduced set up time for in-practice surgical procedures by administering topical anesthesia 10 minutes before the actual appointment starts
• Decreased sterilization and sanitation activities by implementing the usage of multifunctional cleaning products and electrical sanitation tools

Dental Assistant Education Section

The education section your Dental Assistant Resume should be comprehensive, providing details about all academic credentials. These may include qualifications training programs, conferences, short skills workshops, CPD's and practical hours accumulated. Be sure to add information about course curriculums and major topics too.

List credentials in reverse chronological order, starting with most recent going backward. Include dates completed, credential name, and institution attended applicable to each listing.

2017 – 2019 – Associate of Science – Dental Hygiene, Oxnard College, Oxnard, CA

Course Topics: Oral Anatomy, Dental Materials, Dental Office Administration, Dental Pharmacology, Dental Radiography

2018 – California Dental Assistant Association Member (CDAA), College of Dental Hygiene of California, Orange County, CA

2017 – Certified Dental Assistant (CDA), Dental Assisting National Board, Chicago, IL

Exams completed: General Chairside Assisting (GC), Radiation Health and Safety (RHS), Infection Control (ICE)

2016 – Certification in Dental X-Rays, Commission on Dental Association (CODA), Chicago, IL

2014 – Smile Wright Course Programme, Smile Wight, Dental Assistant School, Sometown, CT

Duration: 13 weeks

Lab Hours: 195

2013- Basic Life Support (BLS) for Healthcare Providers, American Heart Association, Mecosta Medical Center, Traverse City, MI

Dental Assistant Skills Section

Matching your Dental Assistant skills section with those mentioned in the job advertisement will help to circumvent the screening bots and applicant tracking systems. These applications are programmed to look for specific words in your resume and then rank your application by suitability.

Using a skills matrix formation your resume to the job opening. First, start by writing down all your soft skills (personality traits) and hard skills (technical competencies). Also, look at the job advertisement in the requirements and skills sections for guidance on which skills you need to highlight.

Now create a table for interpersonal traits and one for technical aptitude similar to the examples below:

Soft Skills Matrix

Technical Competencies

Qualifications/Certifications associated with Dental Assistants

Professional information on Dental Assistants

Labor market : 11% increase between 2018 – 2028

Organizations : Hospitals, Private Practices, Medical Facilities, Corporate, Step Down Facilities, Nursing Homes, Old Age Homes, School Clinics, Military, Hospices, Schools, Public Health Care Facilities, Educational Institutions, Volunteer Organizations, NPO's, Government

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• Job Descriptions
• Healthcare and Medical Job Descriptions

Dental Assistant Job Description

A dental assistant helps with a variety of health care tasks, from taking dental x-rays and caring for patients, to helping file records and appointment scheduling.

Dental Assistant Job Description Template

We are hiring a dental assistant for our busy dental practice. You will help with preparing patients, sterilizing instruments, setting up rooms, and some dental hygiene tasks. To do well in this role you should have a dental x-ray certification and provide a great level of patient care.

Dental Assistant Responsibilities:

• Preparing patients for dental work.
• Helping with infection control by sterilizing and disinfecting instruments, setting up instrument trays, preparing materials, and assisting with dental procedures.
• Assisting dentists in managing medical and dental emergencies when necessary.
• Assisting dental hygienists with procedures when necessary.
• Providing great patient care.
• Recording treatment information in patient records.
• Exposing dental x-rays from dental diagnostics and caring for dental x-ray equipment.
• Giving patients information on dental hygiene, oral health care, and plaque control programs.
• Collecting and recording medical and dental histories and patient vital signs.
• Providing postoperative instructions as directed by the dentist.
• Caring for dental equipment.
• Forming preliminary impressions for study casts and occlusal registrations for mounting study casts.
• Ordering dental supplies and maintaining dental equipment inventory.
• Fabricating temporary restorations and custom impressions from preliminary impressions.

Dental Assistant Requirements:

• Certification or associate degree in an accredited dental assisting program.
• Dental x-ray certification.
• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Completion of Dental Hygiene Program.
• Experience using computers for a variety of tasks.
• Good written and verbal communication skills.
• Consistently professional appearance and attitude.
• Able to provide great patient care.

Related Articles:

Dentist job description, dental hygienist job description, dentist interview questions, how to find dental assistants, dental assistant resume.

Dental Assistant Job Description [Updated for 2024]

In the era of advanced healthcare, the significance of dental assistants has never been higher.

As dental care progresses, there is an increasing demand for skilled individuals who can support, enhance, and safeguard our oral health management systems.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a dental assistant?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to comprehend the core of this role,
• A hiring manager formulating the ideal candidate profile,
• Or simply intrigued by the inner workings of dental assisting,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable dental assistant job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive straight into it.

Dental Assistant Duties and Responsibilities

Dental Assistants support dentists in providing dental treatment and care.

They play a crucial role in ensuring patients are comfortable and the dental procedures are conducted in a smooth and efficient manner.

Dental Assistants perform a variety of duties including:

• Preparing patients for dental procedures by making them comfortable and providing any necessary instructions
• Assisting dentists during dental procedures by handing them instruments, suctioning patients’ mouths, and ensuring the dentist has a clear field of view
• Sterilizing dental instruments and equipment to maintain a clean and safe work environment
• Taking dental radiographs (X-rays) and processing the images for dentist’s interpretation
• Making dental impressions for study casts and prosthodontics
• Performing office management tasks such as scheduling appointments, maintaining dental records, and processing billing and payments
• Providing patients with postoperative instructions and oral health education
• Ordering dental supplies and maintaining dental equipment inventory

Dental Assistant Job Description Template

We are seeking a dedicated and experienced Dental Assistant to join our team.

The Dental Assistant will support dental care delivery by preparing treatment rooms, patients, instruments, and materials; passing instruments and materials to dentists; and maintaining dental records.

Our ideal candidate has the ability to ensure our dental office runs smoothly.

With excellent patient care skills and knowledge of dental procedures, the Dental Assistant will play a crucial role in the patient experience.

Responsibilities

• Prepare patient for dental treatment by welcoming, comforting, seating, and draping patient
• Provide instruments and materials to dentists as required during procedures
• Record medical and dental histories and vital signs of patient
• Maintain dental supplies inventory by checking stock, anticipating needed supplies, and placing orders
• Ensure operation of dental equipment by completing preventive maintenance, troubleshooting malfunctions, and scheduling repairs
• Assist in management of medical and dental emergencies
• Maintain patient confidence by keeping patient records confidential
• Contribute to team effort by accomplishing related tasks as needed

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Dental Assistant
• Knowledge of dental instruments and sterilization methods
• Understanding of health & safety regulations
• Ability to perform regulated non-surgical tasks like coronal polishing is a plus
• Good computer skills
• Excellent communication and people skills
• Attention to detail
• Well-organized and reliable
• High school diploma; graduating from dental assistant school is preferred
• Additional certification or training is an asset (e.g. EFDA)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

Additional Information

• Job Title: Dental Assistant
• Work Environment: Clinic setting with standard hours. Some evening or weekend shifts may be required.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Lead Dentist or Dental Office Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $33,606 minimum to $49,837 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

What Does a Dental Assistant Do?

Dental Assistants work in dental offices and are responsible for several operational and patient-care aspects.

They assist dentists during patient procedures by handing them the necessary tools and ensuring patient comfort.

They are trained to sterilize dental instruments and equipment, maintaining a clean and safe workspace.

Dental Assistants are often in charge of patient care before and after procedures.

This includes explaining the process, answering questions, calming patient nerves, and providing post-procedure care instructions.

They may also be responsible for administrative tasks such as scheduling appointments, updating patient records, and handling billing.

In some dental offices, Dental Assistants may also help with lab tasks such as making casts of teeth or creating temporary crowns.

Ultimately, a Dental Assistant’s role is to support dentists in delivering quality dental care to patients.

Dental Assistant Qualifications and Skills

A competent dental assistant should possess the skills and qualifications that align with the job role, such as:

• Proficient in understanding dental procedures, terminology, and appropriate patient care techniques.
• Strong interpersonal skills to interact with patients, making them feel comfortable before, during and after dental procedures.
• Exceptional organizational skills for setting up instruments and equipment for dental procedures, and maintaining dental records.
• Excellent communication skills to effectively liaise between patients and dentists, explain oral care instructions, and respond to patient inquiries.
• Practical skills to assist dentists during procedures, including the handling of tools and the suction device.
• Attention to detail in following safety standards and sterilization techniques to prevent the spread of diseases in the dental office.
• Ability to stay calm and composed under pressure, especially during dental emergencies or when dealing with anxious patients.
• Knowledge of computer systems and dental software for appointment scheduling, billing, and patient record management.

Dental Assistant Experience Requirements

Dental Assistants typically are required to complete a dental assistant training program which could be a certificate, diploma, or associate’s degree program, where they gain theoretical and hands-on experience with dental procedures.

Often, dental assistant roles will require a certain number of hours of practical experience, which is usually gained through internships or on-the-job training in dental offices during their study.

Entry-level dental assistants, who may have 1-2 years of experience, typically perform tasks like taking patient histories, preparing patients for procedures, and assisting dentists during procedures.

They also gain experience sterilizing dental instruments and setting up the work area for dental procedures.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience often have developed their skills in more complex dental procedures and may have additional responsibilities such as taking dental radiographs, providing patient education, and performing office management tasks.

Those with over 5 years of experience may have extensive hands-on experience with a wide range of dental procedures and patient care.

They are often ready for leadership roles such as Dental Assistant Supervisor or Office Manager, where they oversee other dental assistants and coordinate office operations.

Dental Assistant Education and Training Requirements

Dental Assistants typically require a high school diploma or equivalent.

However, some states may require assistants to graduate from an accredited dental assisting program and pass a state exam.

Most of these programs are offered by community colleges, take about one year to complete, and lead to a certificate or diploma.

Two-year programs, which are less common, lead to an associate’s degree.

The programs include both classroom and laboratory work.

In the classroom, students learn about teeth, gums, jaws, and other areas that dentists work on and the instruments that dentists use.

In the laboratory, students learn how to sterilize and disinfect instruments and equipment and how to make casts of teeth and mouth impressions.

In addition to these formal education requirements, dental assistants must be detail-oriented, possess good manual dexterity, and have good interpersonal skills as they will be interacting with patients and professionals alike.

Although not required, many dental assistants may choose to become Certified Dental Assistants (CDAs), which involves passing a certification exam.

CDAs must keep their certification current with regular continuing education courses.

The exact requirements vary by state and may also depend on the work setting, but generally, these are the necessary steps to becoming a dental assistant.

Dental Assistant Salary Expectations

A Dental Assistant can expect to earn an average salary of $38,660 (USD) per year.

This salary can fluctuate based on factors such as experience, additional certifications, and the region in which they work.

Dental Assistant Job Description FAQs

What skills does a dental assistant need.

Dental assistants should possess excellent interpersonal skills to communicate with patients and explain dental procedures.

They should have a high attention to detail and good manual dexterity to handle dental instruments.

They should also have good organizational skills to manage patient records and schedule appointments.

Do dental assistants need a degree?

Most dental assistants must graduate from an accredited dental assisting program and pass a state exam to become licensed or certified.

However, some states do not require a formal education and provide on-the-job training.

Some dental assistants choose to pursue further education to specialize in areas such as pediatric dentistry or orthodontics.

What should you look for in a dental assistant resume?

A dental assistant’s resume should include their certification or license, which is a requirement in most states.

It should also list any specialized training, such as radiology, or experience in a specific area of dentistry.

You should also look for experience in patient care and office management, as dental assistants often serve as the primary point of contact for patients.

What qualities make a good dental assistant?

A good dental assistant is compassionate and has the ability to put patients at ease, as many people are nervous about dental procedures.

They should have good manual dexterity and physical stamina as they spend a lot of time on their feet and need to handle precise instruments.

A good dental assistant is also organized and can efficiently manage patient records and appointments.

Is it difficult to hire dental assistants?

The demand for dental assistants is high, and there is often strong competition for experienced candidates.

It can be especially difficult to find dental assistants with specialized training or experience.

However, offering competitive salaries and benefits, as well as opportunities for further training and advancement, can help attract and retain qualified dental assistants.

And there we have it.

Today, we’ve delved into the intricacies of being a dental assistant .

It’s not just about cleanings and check-ups.

It’s about creating brighter smiles and healthier patients, one appointment at a time.

With our essential dental assistant job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to make your move.

But why limit yourself?

Dig deeper with our job description generator . It’s your next step towards crafting impeccable job listings or polishing your resume to perfection.

Every dental procedure is a step towards better oral health.

Let’s create those smiles. Together.

Reasons to Become a Dental Assistant (Brighten Smiles Daily!)

How to Become a Dental Assistant (Complete Guide)

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The Editorial Team at InterviewGuy.com is composed of certified interview coaches, seasoned HR professionals, and industry insiders. With decades of collective expertise and access to an unparalleled database of interview questions, we are dedicated to empowering job seekers. Our content meets real-time industry demands, ensuring readers receive timely, accurate, and actionable advice. We value our readers' insights and encourage feedback, corrections, and questions to maintain the highest level of accuracy and relevance.

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Resume Worded   |  Proven Resume Examples

• Resume Examples
• Medical Resumes

10 Dental Assistant Resume Examples - Here's What Works In 2024

Dental assistants are on the front lines of working with both dentists and patients to create a clear path forward for dental health. if you want to work in a fast-paced field that contains both clinical and clerical elements, this guide will help you build a dental assistant resume by reviewing three example templates and a list of key skills and action verbs to consider including.

Dental health is considered by many physicians to be the foundation for overall health, meaning those who work in the field as dental assistants are providing a valuable service to the public while simultaneously honing various transferable skills. Dental assistants are in high demand with the Bureau of Labor Statistics anticipating a seven percent annual growth rate through 2029 - or almost double the rate of growth for most jobs. Dental assistants can expect to work directly with patients, including completing registration, handling insurance details, and scheduling appointments. In addition, dental assistants will often perform clinical work such as sterilizing equipment, preparing the patient for the dentist, or assisting the dentist during oral health procedures. Hiring managers are looking for specific skills and responsibilities in their dental assistant applicants, and this guide will help you identify and include the appropriate skills that match your experience. We’ll start by looking at three example resumes for dental assistants at different stages of their careers.

Dental Assistant Resume Templates

Jump to a template:

• Dental Assistant
• Certified Dental Assistant
• Registered Dental Assistant
• Entry Level Dental Assistant
• Experienced Dental Assistant
• Pediatric Dental Assistant
• Lead Dental Assistant

Jump to a resource:

• Keywords for Dental Assistant Resumes

Dental Assistant Resume Tips

• Action Verbs to Use
• Related Medical Resumes

Get advice on each section of your resume:

Template 1 of 10: Dental Assistant Resume Example

As a dental assistant, you play a vital role in supporting dentists and performing various tasks that keep dental practices running smoothly. In recent years, there's been an increased focus on patient comfort and creating a welcoming environment, so dental assistants should emphasize these skills in their resumes. Additionally, dental practices are adopting more advanced technology, so showcasing your familiarity with these tools can set you apart from other candidates. When writing your resume, it's important to highlight your hands-on experience and knowledge of dental procedures, as well as any specific certifications you have obtained. Also, don't forget to mention any administrative duties you've handled, as dental assistants often juggle both clinical and clerical tasks.

We're just getting the template ready for you, just a second left.

Tips to help you write your Dental Assistant resume in 2024

   showcase patient care skills.

Since dental assistants frequently interact with patients, it's crucial to emphasize your communication and interpersonal skills. Highlight any experience that demonstrates your ability to provide comfort and reassurance to patients, manage patient flow, and maintain a clean and organized workspace.

   Highlight dental technology proficiency

As dental practices continue to adopt advanced technology, hiring managers will appreciate applicants who are well-versed in using modern dental equipment and software. Make sure to mention any experience with digital X-rays, dental practice management software, and other relevant technologies.

Skills you can include on your Dental Assistant resume

Template 2 of 10: dental assistant resume example.

Start your resume with a succinct summary that outlines your background as a dental assistant to catch the eye of hiring managers and give them an accurate impression of your personal skill set. Incorporate numerical values in the summary whenever relevant, and make sure to do the same in the body of your resume to impart an affinity for precision.

   Opening summary specifies dental assistant skills

As the background of dental assistants can vary based on their experience working alongside dentists or at the front of the office, you can orient hiring managers to your particular background by including a short summary at the start of your resume. You can opt to include the tasks and skills you have expertise in, the amount of time you've been a dental assistant, or the type or size of office(s) you've worked in.

   Uses numerical values to impart scope and scale of dental experience

Having an eye for details and accuracy is an important aspect of the clerical duties dental assistants are expected to perform. With that in mind, you should aim to use quantitative values in each of your bullet-pointed accomplishments as it will help hiring managers understand exactly how big your previous offices were, how high your satisfaction rating was, how many physicians you’re accustomed to working with, and so on.

Template 3 of 10: Certified Dental Assistant Resume Example

As a Certified Dental Assistant, you'll be an integral part of any dental practice, providing valuable support to dentists and ensuring a smooth patient experience. When crafting your resume, it's essential to showcase your expertise in dental procedures, patient care, and office management. Keep in mind that the dental field is continually evolving, with advancements in technology and shifts towards more patient-centric care. Employers are looking for dental assistants who are adaptable and committed to staying current on industry trends. In your resume, emphasize your technical skills, certifications, and experience working as a dental assistant. Also, highlight your ability to work well with patients of all ages and backgrounds, as well as your strong communication skills. Your resume should demonstrate your ability to effectively manage your time and multitask in a busy dental practice while maintaining a high standard of patient care.

Tips to help you write your Certified Dental Assistant resume in 2024

   showcase your certifications.

As a Certified Dental Assistant, your resume should highlight your relevant certifications, such as your Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) certification, radiology certification, or any additional dental assisting licensures. Include these in a dedicated "Certifications" section to demonstrate your expertise and qualifications.

   Emphasize infection control skills

Dental practices prioritize maintaining a sterile environment, and employers value dental assistants who are diligent in infection control protocols. Include any OSHA or HIPAA training you've received, and mention your experience in maintaining a safe and clean workspace within the dental practice.

Skills you can include on your Certified Dental Assistant resume

Template 4 of 10: certified dental assistant resume example.

Certified dental assistants have less formal education than registered dental assistants, but will generally be handling the same role at both the front and back of the dentist office. Their duties include entering medical records and scheduling appointments as well as reviewing dental procedures with patients. You can emphasize your experience in the role by listing your skills in a skill bank, along with a list of your certifications nearby. The body of your resume should support the certifications with practical experience.

   Includes skill bank to emphasize dental breadth and expertise

Hiring managers are typically pressed for time, and so a skill bank is a great way to highlight the technical tools and techniques you are familiar with. You should include the relevant software you’ve used (especially if it is field specific) and the full list of certifications you’ve attained.

   Emphasizes breadth of relevant accomplishments in the dental industry

Along with a skill bank, you should be sure that your bullet pointed accomplishments reflect the skills you’ve mastered by including a variety of dental assistant tasks for your past employers. Don’t just include the number of patients you worked with at past employers, but aim to reference your work compiling guides, performing chairside assistance, and ability to sterilize, for instance.

Template 5 of 10: Registered Dental Assistant Resume Example

As a Registered Dental Assistant (RDA), your resume should showcase your specialized skills and knowledge in dental assisting. Stay updated on industry trends to demonstrate your commitment to providing top-notch patient care. For example, highlight your knowledge of new dental technologies and how they benefit patients and dental practices. In recent years, digital dentistry has taken off, so showcasing your proficiency in using digital equipment and software can help set you apart from other applicants. It's also important to emphasize your ability to work well with others, as RDAs are essential members of the dental team. Highlight your interpersonal skills, such as empathy and active listening, which contribute to a positive patient experience and seamless communication among team members.

Tips to help you write your Registered Dental Assistant resume in 2024

   emphasize specialized skills and certifications.

As an RDA, you should list any specialized skills, certifications, and training courses you've completed that relate to dental assisting. For instance, if you've earned certifications in radiology, CPR, or infection control, make sure to include them on your resume to demonstrate your expertise and commitment to patient care.

   Showcase experience with digital dentistry tools

Highlight your experience using digital dentistry tools and equipment, such as digital X-ray machines, intraoral scanners, and dental practice management software. This shows employers that you're keeping up with technology trends and can easily adapt to a modern dental practice.

Skills you can include on your Registered Dental Assistant resume

Template 6 of 10: registered dental assistant resume example.

Registered dental assistants (RDAs) have the highest educational requirements and will handle virtually everything in a dental office except the duties of the dentist. RDAs conduct administrative and clerical duties (such as scheduling and preparing clinical spaces for patients) and clinical duties such as taking x-rays and administering topical anesthesia. Hiring managers will be looking for advanced responsibilities that have grown over time, which can be augmented through the use of strong action verbs.

   Shows progressive growth in responsibilities and positions across dental professions

As a registered dental assistant, you should be able to indicate that you have been growing in the degree of responsibility in your position over time. You can illustrate that in your resume by ensuring that your most recent position involves your most impressive accomplishments (such as performing procedures or attending professional development workshops).

   Effective use of strong action verbs relevant to the medical field

To emphasize that you are familiar with the role of dental assistant, each one of your accomplishments should begin with an appropriate action verb. You should aim to include verbs like “assisted”, “prepared”, “provided”, or “fabricated” (with others listed below) to hammer in your understanding of the position.

Template 7 of 10: Entry Level Dental Assistant Resume Example

A dental assistant facilitates many tasks within a dentist’s office. These individuals have specialized knowledge in dental health and safety. They may be responsible for administrative tasks, teeth cleanings, taking X-rays, and patient education. They may also assist the dentist in more advanced procedures such as root canals. To become a dental assistant, most hiring managers will require you to have completed a dental assisting program, which is typically 1-2 years. At the end of this course, you’ll need to get certified as a dental assistant. A bachelor’s degree is not required, though if taken in a related field, might give you a leg up. Previous experience in a dental setting, like working as a receptionist in a dentist’s office, will be attractive to hiring managers.

Tips to help you write your Entry Level Dental Assistant resume in 2024

   complete an externship to stand out as an entry level dental assistant.

An externship can be a great way to get hands-on dental assisting experience before entering the field. Your educational institution may have many externship opportunities available. Often, externships are counted toward the completion of the course as voluntary credits. Externships give you exposure and real-world training in a dental setting, which look great on an entry level resume.

   Differentiate your resume with speciality certifications or licenses

Almost all dental assistants have to pass the CDA (Certified Dental Assistant) exam. However, you can obtain speciality certifications and set yourself apart. For example, you can get a certification in orthodontic dental assisting or restorative dentistry. This diversifies your resume and can help you land jobs in more specialized sectors like orthodontics or cosmetic dentistry.

Skills you can include on your Entry Level Dental Assistant resume

Template 8 of 10: experienced dental assistant resume example.

A dental assistant facilitates several procedures within a dentist’s office. They have specialized knowledge in dental health and safety. An experienced dental assistant will be tasked with core elements of the dental assistant role, including teeth cleanings, performing X-rays, and more. An experienced dental assistant may also have other duties, like training new hygienists, assisting with more complicated procedures like oral surgery, or managing patient data. To become an experienced dental assistant, hiring managers will require that you have an educational background in dental assisting, and are a certified dental assistant. To land a role as an experienced dental assistant, you’ll need prior experience as a dental assistant with a track record of competency and excellence.

Tips to help you write your Experienced Dental Assistant resume in 2024

   highlight your successes in previous dental assistant roles.

To land a role as an experienced dental assistant, you’ll need to show hiring managers that you have valuable experience in the field. It’s important to highlight what you have excelled at in previous roles. For example, you can highlight how many patients you successfully committed to a needed course of treatment, or how you successfully secured and organized patient data.

   Get certified in dental office software like Dentrix

When recruiting for an experienced dental assistant, hiring managers will often be looking for someone who has the ability to streamline administrative operations. You can obtain certifications, such as the Dentrix certification, that provide the skills needed to proficiently use the program and how to train others on it. These certifications will make your resume stand out as they show administrative competency and the ability to teach colleagues about office software.

Skills you can include on your Experienced Dental Assistant resume

Template 9 of 10: pediatric dental assistant resume example.

Pediatric dental assistants support pediatric dentists. Though you are not likely to perform procedures on patients, you may still perform clinical tasks like sterilizing equipment, preparing patients, and giving advice to patients on oral healthcare. A lot of your time will also be spent on administrative tasks such as scheduling appointments and maintaining records. To qualify for this job, you will need a dental assistant certification at the very least. Some recruiters will also be looking for experience in dentistry as well. Take a look at this strong resume sample.

Tips to help you write your Pediatric Dental Assistant resume in 2024

   clearly list your certifications and where they were obtained..

You must be certified to work in this position and so recruiters will need to easily find your certifications in your resume. It is also important to clearly list which board or organization you got your certification from because recruiters might have ATS filters that will filter out all resumes that do not list the board certifications that they recognize.

   Have a mixture of dental and administrative tools listed.

In this position, you will be assisting with dental procedures and also performing many administrative tasks. It is therefore important to list industry standard tools for both functions. This applicant does this successfully.

Skills you can include on your Pediatric Dental Assistant resume

Template 10 of 10: lead dental assistant resume example.

As a lead dental assistant, you will be a dentist's second in command. You will assist in many of the procedures and may even perform some procedures like teeth cleaning and taking X-rays. You will also perform administrative tasks like scheduling and record keeping. Your biggest function, however, is to manage and supervise the other dental assistants. You will create schedules, supervise them during procedures, train them, monitor their performance, etc. This position requires you to be at least certified by an accredited program, but recruiters would prefer to see a diploma or degree in dentistry. Additional qualifications like a degree will also increase your chances of getting higher pay. Recruiters will also want to see that you have had successful experience as a manager or leader. Take a look at this strong resume sample.

Tips to help you write your Lead Dental Assistant resume in 2024

   use action verbs to indicate experience in your three main functions..

A lead dental assistant has three main functions: assisting the dentist, administration, and management of other assistants. Action verbs are a great way to shape your experience section to make your experience in all three functions stand out. For your assistant function use action verbs like administered or assisted. For your administrative function use action verbs like scheduled. For your management function use action verbs like trained and managed.

   List industry-specific tools.

There are particular administrative and management tools used in dental practice. Show your knowledge and expertise in the field by listing these industry-specific tools. Some of these tools include Curve Hero and Weave.

Skills you can include on your Lead Dental Assistant resume

As a hiring manager who has recruited for top dental practices like Aspen Dental, Affordable Dentures & Implants, and Western Dental & Orthodontics, I've seen countless resumes for dental assistant positions. In this article, I'll share insider tips on how to make your dental assistant resume stand out and increase your chances of landing an interview.

   Highlight your dental-specific skills

Employers want to see that you have the specific skills required for the dental assistant role. Make sure to highlight your expertise in:

• Chairside assisting
• Dental instrument sterilization
• Taking and developing dental radiographs
• Preparing dental materials (e.g., cements, amalgams, composites)

Don't just list these skills; provide specific examples of how you've used them in your work experience section. For instance:

• Assisted dentists with procedures such as fillings, extractions, and crown placements
• Maintained strict infection control protocols, ensuring proper sterilization of instruments

   Showcase your patient care experience

Dental assistants play a crucial role in patient care and comfort. Highlight your experience in:

• Educating patients on oral hygiene practices
• Helping anxious patients feel at ease
• Taking and recording patient medical histories
• Providing post-operative care instructions

Use specific examples to illustrate your patient care skills:

• Developed rapport with patients, easing anxiety and ensuring comfort during procedures
• Provided clear and concise post-operative care instructions to patients and caregivers

   Include relevant certifications and training

Dental practices often prefer candidates with specific certifications or training. Be sure to include:

• Dental Assistant Certification (e.g., CDA, RDA, EFDA)
• CPR and First Aid certifications
• Continuing education courses related to dentistry

If you have multiple certifications, consider creating a separate 'Certifications' section to make them easy for employers to find. For example:

Certifications: - Certified Dental Assistant (CDA), Dental Assisting National Board, 2019 - CPR and First Aid Certified, American Red Cross, 2020

   Tailor your resume to the specific job

One common mistake job seekers make is using the same generic resume for every application. Instead:

• Sending the same resume to every dental practice without customization
• Including irrelevant skills or experience not related to the dental assistant role

To make your resume stand out, tailor it to the specific job:

• Read the job description carefully and highlight key skills and requirements
• Emphasize the skills and experience that directly match what the employer is seeking
• Use similar language and terminology as the job posting

By customizing your resume for each application, you show the employer that you're a strong fit for their specific needs.

   Quantify your accomplishments

When possible, use numbers and metrics to quantify your accomplishments and make your resume more impactful. For example:

• Assisted with an average of 30 patient procedures per day
• Maintained a 95% patient satisfaction rating based on post-visit surveys
• Trained 5 new dental assistants on office procedures and protocols

Quantifying your achievements helps employers better understand the scope and impact of your work. It also helps your resume stand out from those that only include generic descriptions of responsibilities.

   Proofread and format for readability

Before submitting your resume, make sure to:

• Carefully proofread for spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors
• Use a clear, easy-to-read font like Arial or Calibri
• Organize your resume with clear headings and bullet points
• Keep it concise, typically one to two pages

A well-formatted, error-free resume shows attention to detail and professionalism. Consider asking a friend or family member to review your resume for any mistakes or areas for improvement.

By following these tips and tailoring your resume to showcase your dental-specific skills and experience, you'll be well on your way to landing your next dental assistant role.

Writing Your Dental Assistant Resume: Section By Section

  header, 1. put your name on its own line.

Your name should be the most prominent part of your header. Put it on its own line at the top, in a font size that's larger than the rest of your resume (18-24pt is a good range).

Here's an example of what your name line might look like:

• John Smith, CDA

Avoid adding labels or extra details on the same line as your name:

• John Smith - Certified Dental Assistant, 123 Main St, New York, NY 10001

2. Include essential contact details

After your name, add your key contact information:

• Phone number
• Professional email address
• Location (City, State)
• LinkedIn URL (optional)

You can put these details on one line, separated by vertical lines or bullet points to keep your header compact:

[email protected] | 212-555-1234 | New York, NY | linkedin.com/in/john-smith

Avoid cluttering your header with personal details or a full mailing address, which hiring managers don't need at this stage:

• 123 Main St, Apt 2B, New York, NY 10001 | Birthday: Jan 1, 1985 | Marital Status: Single

3. Showcase your dental assistant job title

If you're an experienced dental assistant, consider adding your job title as the last line of your header. This quickly communicates your level and area of expertise. For example:

John Smith, CDA [email protected] | 212-555-1234 | New York, NY Senior Dental Assistant

However, avoid adding multiple job titles or stuffing your header with keywords, which can look cluttered and spammy:

• Dental Assistant | Dental Hygienist | Dental Receptionist | Billing Coordinator
• Dental Assistant with skills in patient care, X-rays, dental instruments, EagleSoft, Dentrix...

Keep your header clean and stick to one clear job title. You'll have space to elaborate on your skills and experience in other resume sections.

  Summary

A resume summary for a dental assistant position is optional, but can be a valuable addition if you have relevant experience or skills that set you apart from other candidates. While an objective statement is outdated and should be avoided, a well-crafted summary can provide context and highlight your most impressive qualifications. Keep your summary concise and tailored to the specific dental assistant role you're targeting.

To learn how to write an effective resume summary for your Dental Assistant resume, or figure out if you need one, please read Dental Assistant Resume Summary Examples , or Dental Assistant Resume Objective Examples .

1. Highlight your dental experience and skills

When crafting your dental assistant resume summary, focus on your most relevant experience and skills. Hiring managers want to see that you have the necessary qualifications to excel in the role.

Rather than using generic statements like this:

Experienced dental assistant looking for a new opportunity. Skilled in various dental procedures and patient care.

Quantify your experience and highlight specific skills:

Certified Dental Assistant with 5+ years of experience in fast-paced dental practices. Skilled in chair-side assisting, dental impressions, and patient education. Proficient in digital X-rays and dental charting software.

2. Showcase your achievements and impact

In addition to listing your skills and experience, use your summary to showcase your achievements and the impact you've made in previous roles. This helps you stand out from other candidates and demonstrates your value to potential employers.

• Assisted dentists with various procedures
• Provided excellent patient care

Instead, quantify your achievements and highlight specific results:

• Assisted in 20+ dental procedures daily, ensuring efficient and high-quality patient care
• Implemented a new patient education program, increasing patient satisfaction scores by 15%

3. Tailor your summary to the specific role

To make your resume summary more effective, tailor it to the specific dental assistant position you're applying for. Research the practice and the job description to identify the key skills and qualifications they're looking for.

For example, if the job description emphasizes pediatric dentistry experience, highlight your relevant skills:

Compassionate Dental Assistant with 3+ years of experience in pediatric dentistry. Skilled in creating a friendly and welcoming environment for young patients and their families. Proficient in behavior management techniques and patient education.

By tailoring your summary to the specific role, you demonstrate your fit for the position and increase your chances of catching the hiring manager's attention.

  Experience

The work experience section is the heart of your resume. It's where you show the impact you've made at your previous dental assistant jobs. Avoid simply listing your daily responsibilities. Instead, think about your proudest accomplishments and the key skills you leveraged to achieve them.

Here are some tips to make your work experience section stand out to hiring managers and paint a memorable picture of what you bring to the table:

1. Highlight your clinical skills and specialties

Dental assistants play a crucial role in supporting dentists with a variety of procedures. Highlight the specific clinical skills and specialties you've developed, such as:

• Assisted with dental implants, veneers, and teeth whitening procedures
• Specialized in pediatric dentistry, helping young patients feel at ease during cleanings and treatments
• Expertise in taking digital dental x-rays and impressions using iTero scanner

Mentioning the procedures and patient populations you have experience with helps employers quickly see if you're the right fit for their practice.

2. Showcase your impact with numbers

When possible, quantify your achievements to give a concrete sense of your impact. Compare this:

• Responsible for sterilizing dental instruments and managing inventory
• Implemented a new inventory management system, reducing supply costs by 15% and ensuring 100% adherence to sterilization protocols for 50+ instruments

The second example paints a much more vivid picture by including specific numbers. No need to quantify everything - focus on your most impressive data points.

3. Feature promotions and added responsibilities

Highlight any promotions, title changes, or times you took on additional responsibilities, as these indicate strong performance and trust from your employer. For example:

Dental Assistant II, 2019-2022 Dental Assistant, 2016-2019

This shows you advanced in your role over time. Even if your title didn't change, you can call out how you expanded your scope, like:

• Took on additional responsibility of training new dental assistants on clinical procedures, terminology, and patient care

4. Demonstrate your soft skills through examples

In addition to clinical abilities, dental assistants need strong communication, organization, and customer service skills. Weave these in naturally by showing how you applied them. For instance:

• Built rapport with patients, clearly explaining procedures to help them feel informed and at ease
• Reorganized supply closet and treatment rooms to maximize efficiency, reducing prep time by 5 minutes per patient

This is more effective than simply listing soft skills without context, like:

• Communication skills
• Organizational abilities

  Education

The education section of your dental assistant resume should be concise and highlight your relevant training and certifications. This section is especially important if you are a recent graduate or have limited work experience. Here are some tips to help you craft an effective education section:

1. List your highest level of education first

Start with your most recent or highest level of education, such as a dental assistant diploma or associate degree. Include the name of the institution, the degree or diploma earned, and the graduation date.

Associate of Applied Science in Dental Assisting XYZ Community College, Anytown, USA Graduated: May 2023

2. Include relevant coursework and awards

If you are a recent graduate, you can include relevant coursework, clinical experience, or academic achievements to showcase your knowledge and skills. This can help you stand out from other candidates who may have similar educational backgrounds.

• Completed coursework in dental anatomy, radiology, and infection control
• Received Dean's List honors for three consecutive semesters

3. Highlight your dental assistant certification

If you have earned a dental assistant certification, such as the Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) credential from the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB), make sure to include it in your education section. This certification demonstrates your commitment to the profession and can set you apart from other candidates.

Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) Earned: August 2022

4. Keep it brief for experienced professionals

If you are a seasoned dental assistant with several years of experience, your education section should be brief and focus on your highest level of education and most relevant certifications. Avoid listing outdated or irrelevant information that may distract from your professional experience.

Example of what not to include:

• Online course in basic Microsoft Office skills
• High school diploma, class of 1995

Instead, keep it concise:

Associate of Applied Science in Dental Assisting XYZ Community College

Action Verbs For Dental Assistant Resumes

Dental assistants are expected to be versatile in their ability to assist both physicians and patients, so selecting a range of action verbs to utilize in your resume will help showcase your experience. Along with leading your bullet points with strong action verbs when appropriate, you should work them into the body of the accomplishment as added emphasis.

• Coordinated
• Administered

For more related action verbs, visit Medical Action Verbs .

For a full list of effective resume action verbs, visit Resume Action Verbs .

Action Verbs for Dental Assistant Resumes

Skills for dental assistant resumes.

The skill set for dental assistants will vary between individuals based on their experience, but hiring managers will generally be looking for key skills that will enable you to function effectively in the position. On the left, we’ve listed the most common skills that dental assistants are expected to have. As dental assistants rely on specific technical skills and software to conduct a portion of their duties, you should aim to include a skill bank on your resume to give hiring managers an easy way to determine your capability. Additionally, starting your resume with a summary that incorporates key skills will help you stand out to hiring managers and make it past automatic screening tools.

• Dental Assisting
• Dental Care
• Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)
• Patient Education
• Restorative Dentistry
• Cosmetic Dentistry
• Infection Control
• Oral Surgery
• Sterilization
• Coronal Polishing
• Dental Software
• Dental Imaging
• Orthodontics
• Teeth Whitening
• Endodontics

How To Write Your Skills Section On a Dental Assistant Resumes

You can include the above skills in a dedicated Skills section on your resume, or weave them in your experience. Here's how you might create your dedicated skills section:

Skills Word Cloud For Dental Assistant Resumes

This word cloud highlights the important keywords that appear on Dental Assistant job descriptions and resumes. The bigger the word, the more frequently it appears on job postings, and the more 'important' it is.

How to use these skills?

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• Dental Assistant Resume Example
• Certified Dental Assistant Resume Example
• Registered Dental Assistant Resume Example
• Entry Level Dental Assistant Resume Example
• Experienced Dental Assistant Resume Example
• Pediatric Dental Assistant Resume Example
• Lead Dental Assistant Resume Example
• Tips for Dental Assistant Resumes
• Skills and Keywords to Add
• All Resume Examples
• Dental Assistant CV Examples
• Dental Assistant Cover Letter
• Dental Assistant Interview Guide
• Explore Alternative and Similar Careers

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7 Dental Assistant Resume Examples for Your 2024 Job Search

Dental assistants are skilled at providing efficient support and ensuring a smooth patient experience. Similarly, your resume should function like a dental assistant, adeptly supporting your qualifications and ensuring a seamless presentation of your skills. In this guide, we'll examine 7 dental assistant resume examples that effectively showcase the qualities needed to excel in this vital role.

Resume Examples

Resume guidance.

• High Level Resume Tips
• Must-Have Information
• Why Resume Headlines & Titles are Important
• Writing an Exceptional Resume Summary
• How to Impress with Your Work Experience
• Top Skills & Keywords
• Go Above & Beyond with a Cover Letter
• Resume FAQs
• Related Resumes

Common Responsibilities Listed on Dental Assistant Resumes:

• Prepare treatment rooms for patient procedures, including sterilizing equipment and instruments
• Assist the dentist during procedures by passing instruments, suctioning, and providing other support as needed
• Take and develop dental x-rays as directed by the dentist
• Educate patients on proper oral hygiene techniques and provide post-operative care instructions
• Schedule patient appointments and maintain accurate patient records
• Manage inventory of dental supplies and order new supplies as needed
• Perform basic laboratory procedures, such as pouring and trimming models and fabricating temporary crowns
• Clean and maintain dental equipment and instruments
• Assist with administrative tasks, such as answering phones and filing patient paperwork
• Provide support to other dental staff members as needed
• Ensure compliance with infection control protocols and OSHA regulations
• Assist with patient billing and insurance claims processing.

You can use the examples above as a starting point to help you brainstorm tasks, accomplishments for your work experience section.

Dental Assistant Resume Example:

• Implemented a patient education program that increased patient compliance with oral hygiene instructions by 25%.
• Streamlined the inventory management system, reducing supply waste by 15% and saving the practice $5,000 annually.
• Developed and implemented a patient recall system, resulting in a 20% increase in patient retention and revenue.
• Managed the implementation of a new electronic health record system, resulting in a 30% reduction in administrative tasks and a 20% increase in patient satisfaction.
• Collaborated with the dentist to develop and implement a treatment plan for a patient with severe dental anxiety, resulting in successful completion of treatment and a positive patient experience.
• Developed and led a training program for new dental assistants, resulting in a 50% reduction in onboarding time and improved team performance.
• Developed and implemented infection control protocols that exceeded OSHA standards, resulting in zero incidents of infection transmission in the practice.
• Managed the ordering and inventory of dental supplies, resulting in a 10% reduction in supply costs and improved supply availability for patient care.
• Collaborated with the dentist to develop and implement a treatment plan for a patient with complex dental needs, resulting in successful completion of treatment and improved patient oral health.
• Patient Education and Care
• Inventory Management
• Patient Retention Strategies
• Electronic Health Record (EHR) Management
• Dental Treatment Planning
• Staff Training and Development
• Infection Control Protocols
• Supply Chain Management
• Collaborative Patient Care
• Dental Anxiety Management
• Compliance with Regulatory Standards
• Dental Procedure Assistance
• Interpersonal and Communication Skills
• Dental Equipment Maintenance
• Organizational Skills
• Problem-solving Skills
• Detail-oriented Approach
• Multitasking Skills
• Time Management
• Customer Service Skills

Entry Level Dental Assistant Resume Example:

• Provided exceptional patient care by taking and recording medical and dental histories and vital signs of patients, resulting in a 95% satisfaction rate among patients.
• Assisted the dentist during a variety of treatment procedures, ensuring a smooth and efficient patient experience and reducing patient wait times by 20%.
• Maintained a clean and safe working environment by complying with procedures, rules, and regulations, resulting in zero safety incidents and a 100% compliance rate.
• Managed inventory levels by anticipating needed supplies and placing orders for supplies, resulting in a 15% reduction in supply costs and ensuring that all necessary supplies were always available.
• Assisted in the management of medical and dental emergencies, providing quick and effective care to patients and reducing emergency response times by 30%.
• Documented dental care services by charting in patient records, ensuring accurate and up-to-date patient information and improving patient outcomes by 25%.
• Successfully prepared treatment rooms for patients by following prescribed procedures and protocols, resulting in a 100% compliance rate and ensuring that all patients received the highest quality care.
• Sterilized and disinfected instruments and equipment, maintaining a clean and safe working environment and reducing the risk of infection by 50%.
• Provided patients with instructions for oral care following all dental treatment procedures, resulting in a 90% compliance rate and improving patient outcomes by 20%.
• Patient care and communication
• Dental procedure assistance
• Medical and dental history documentation
• Vital signs monitoring
• Inventory management
• Emergency response and management
• Treatment room preparation
• Instrument sterilization and disinfection
• Oral care instruction
• Compliance with safety procedures and regulations
• Time management and efficiency
• Team collaboration and support
• Dental charting and record-keeping
• Basic computer skills and dental software proficiency

Registered Dental Assistant Resume Example:

• Managed the sterilization process for all instruments and equipment, ensuring compliance with OSHA regulations and reducing the risk of infection for patients by 30%.
• Assisted the dentist during complex procedures, including root canals and extractions, resulting in a 25% reduction in procedure time and an increase in patient satisfaction scores by 15%.
• Implemented a patient education program, providing personalized oral care instructions and increasing patient compliance with postoperative care by 40%.
• Managed the office's inventory of dental supplies and materials, reducing waste by 20% and saving the practice $10,000 annually.
• Developed and implemented a scheduling system that reduced patient wait times by 50% and increased the number of patients seen per day by 25%.
• Provided training and mentorship to new dental assistants, resulting in a 50% reduction in onboarding time and an increase in team satisfaction scores by 20%.
• Performed dental diagnostic x-rays, identifying and addressing potential issues early and reducing the need for more invasive procedures by 30%.
• Managed medical and dental emergencies, including administering topical anesthetics and medications, resulting in a 100% success rate in resolving emergencies without the need for hospitalization.
• Developed and implemented a system for tracking patient medical and dental histories, improving patient care and reducing the risk of medical errors by 25%.
• Sterilization and infection control
• Patient education and communication
• Scheduling and time management
• Team training and mentorship
• Dental diagnostic x-rays
• Emergency management
• Topical anesthetics and medication administration
• Patient medical and dental history tracking
• Compliance with OSHA regulations
• Dental equipment maintenance
• Postoperative care management
• Interpersonal skills

Lead Dental Assistant Resume Example:

• Developed and implemented a patient education program, resulting in a 25% increase in patient compliance with oral hygiene recommendations.
• Managed inventory of dental supplies and equipment, reducing waste by 15% and saving the practice $10,000 annually.
• Trained and mentored new dental assistants, resulting in a 20% improvement in team productivity and a 10% decrease in errors.
• Collaborated with dentists to implement new treatment procedures, resulting in a 30% increase in patient satisfaction scores.
• Managed patient scheduling and billing, reducing errors by 20% and improving patient retention by 15%.
• Implemented new sterilization and disinfection protocols, resulting in a 40% decrease in infection rates and improved patient safety.
• Developed and implemented a patient recall system, resulting in a 50% increase in patient retention and a 20% increase in revenue.
• Managed the ordering and stocking of dental supplies, reducing inventory costs by 10% and ensuring adequate supplies for all procedures.
• Trained and coached team members on best practices for patient care and office management, resulting in a 15% improvement in patient satisfaction scores and a 10% increase in team productivity.
• Dental supply and equipment management
• Team training and mentoring
• Collaboration with dental professionals
• Patient scheduling and billing
• Sterilization and disinfection protocols
• Patient recall systems
• Dental procedure knowledge
• Office management and organization
• Time management
• Conflict resolution
• Attention to detail
• Dental software proficiency
• X-ray and imaging skills

Pediatric Dental Assistant Resume Example:

• Developed and implemented a comprehensive patient education program, resulting in a 25% increase in patient compliance with oral hygiene recommendations.
• Managed inventory and supply ordering, reducing costs by 10% while ensuring adequate supplies for all procedures.
• Collaborated with dentists and other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive care for patients with special needs, resulting in improved patient outcomes and satisfaction.
• Implemented a new patient scheduling system, reducing wait times by 15% and increasing patient satisfaction scores by 20%.
• Developed and delivered training programs for new dental assistants, resulting in a 30% reduction in onboarding time and improved team performance.
• Managed patient records and billing processes, ensuring compliance with HIPAA regulations and reducing billing errors by 25%.
• Developed and implemented a system for tracking patient outcomes and satisfaction, resulting in a 15% improvement in patient satisfaction scores and better patient outcomes.
• Managed the sterilization and maintenance of dental equipment, ensuring compliance with OSHA regulations and reducing equipment downtime by 20%.
• Collaborated with dentists and other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive care for patients with complex medical histories, resulting in improved patient outcomes and satisfaction.
• Inventory and supply management
• Collaboration with healthcare professionals
• Patient scheduling and coordination
• Training and onboarding new staff
• Patient records and billing management
• HIPAA compliance
• Dental equipment sterilization and maintenance
• OSHA regulations compliance
• Patient outcome tracking and improvement
• Special needs patient care
• Handling complex medical histories

Beginner Dental Assistant Resume Example:

• Provided exceptional patient care, resulting in a 95% satisfaction rate from patients and their families.
• Managed inventory and supplies, reducing waste by 20% and saving the practice $5,000 annually.
• Assisted in the implementation of new sterilization protocols, ensuring compliance with OSHA and CDC guidelines.
• Contributed to the development of a patient education program, resulting in a 30% increase in patient understanding of oral health and treatment options.
• Managed patient scheduling and appointment confirmations, reducing no-shows by 15% and increasing patient retention.
• Provided support in the preparation of dental materials, resulting in a 25% reduction in material waste and cost savings for the practice.
• Performed dental radiographs and assisted in restorative procedures, contributing to a 20% increase in patient treatment completion rates.
• Managed patient records and maintained accurate documentation, ensuring compliance with HIPAA regulations.
• Assisted in the training and onboarding of new team members, resulting in a 10% increase in team productivity and efficiency.
• Dental radiographs and imaging
• Restorative procedure assistance
• Patient education and engagement
• Scheduling and appointment management
• Dental material preparation
• Record keeping and documentation
• Team training and onboarding
• Time management and organization
• Basic computer and software skills
• Dental equipment maintenance and troubleshooting
• Professionalism and ethical conduct

Orthodontic Dental Assistant Resume Example:

• Implemented a patient education program that resulted in a 25% increase in patient compliance with oral hygiene instructions and a 15% reduction in treatment time.
• Developed and implemented a system for tracking and ordering dental supplies, resulting in a 20% reduction in waste and a 10% decrease in supply costs.
• Assisted in the development and implementation of a new patient scheduling system, resulting in a 30% reduction in patient wait times and a 20% increase in patient satisfaction scores.
• Managed the orthodontic laboratory, ensuring timely delivery of appliances and reducing turnaround time by 20%.
• Implemented a system for tracking patient progress and treatment plans, resulting in a 15% increase in treatment plan adherence and a 10% reduction in treatment time.
• Developed and implemented a system for tracking and managing patient records, resulting in a 25% reduction in errors and a 15% increase in accuracy.
• Developed and implemented a system for managing patient appointments, resulting in a 20% reduction in missed appointments and a 10% increase in patient satisfaction scores.
• Assisted in the development and implementation of a new patient intake process, resulting in a 30% reduction in patient wait times and a 20% increase in patient satisfaction scores.
• Managed the inventory of orthodontic appliances, ensuring timely delivery and reducing inventory costs by 15%.
• Dental supply management
• Patient scheduling and appointment management
• Orthodontic laboratory management
• Treatment plan tracking and adherence
• Patient record management
• Inventory management and cost reduction
• Patient intake process improvement
• Oral hygiene instruction
• Orthodontic appliance knowledge
• Team collaboration and coordination
• Attention to detail and accuracy
• Problem-solving and critical thinking
• Adaptability to new technologies and systems

High Level Resume Tips for Dental Assistants:

Must-have information for a dental assistant resume:.

Here are the essential sections that should exist in an Dental Assistant resume:

• Contact Information
• Resume Headline
• Resume Summary or Objective
• Work Experience & Achievements
• Skills & Competencies

Additionally, if you're eager to make an impression and gain an edge over other Dental Assistant candidates, you may want to consider adding in these sections:

• Certifications/Training

Let's start with resume headlines.

Why Resume Headlines & Titles are Important for Dental Assistants:

Dental assistant resume headline examples:, strong headlines.

• Experienced Dental Assistant with a passion for patient care and a proven track record of assisting in complex procedures
• Detail-oriented Dental Assistant with expertise in digital radiography and a commitment to maintaining a clean and safe environment for patients
• Certified Dental Assistant with a focus on providing exceptional customer service and a talent for managing patient records and scheduling appointments

Why these are strong: These resume headlines are strong for Dental Assistants as they highlight key skills and experiences that are relevant to the role. The first headline emphasizes the candidate's experience and passion for patient care, as well as their ability to assist in complex procedures. The second headline showcases the candidate's attention to detail and expertise in digital radiography, which are important skills for Dental Assistants. Finally, the third headline emphasizes the candidate's certification, focus on customer service, and talent for managing patient records and scheduling appointments, which are all important qualities that hiring managers look for in Dental Assistants.

Weak Headlines

• Skilled Dental Assistant with Experience in Patient Care
• Detail-Oriented Dental Assistant with Strong Communication Skills
• Dental Assistant with Knowledge of Dental Procedures and Equipment

Why these are weak:

• These resume headlines need improvement for Dental Assistants as they lack specificity and don't highlight any unique skills or accomplishments that the candidates bring to the table. The first headline mentions experience in patient care, but doesn't provide any context or results, such as patient satisfaction rates or successful treatment outcomes. The second headline mentions strong communication skills, but doesn't showcase any examples of how the candidate has effectively communicated with patients or colleagues. The third headline mentions knowledge of dental procedures and equipment, but doesn't provide any certifications or training that could strengthen the candidate's profile.

Writing an Exceptional Dental Assistant Resume Summary:

Resume summaries are crucial for Dental Assistants as they provide a brief yet impactful way to showcase their skills, experience, and unique value proposition. A well-crafted summary can immediately capture the attention of hiring managers, setting the tone for the rest of the resume and positioning the candidate as an ideal fit for the role.

For Dental Assistants specifically, an effective resume summary is one that highlights their ability to provide exceptional patient care, work collaboratively with dental professionals, and ensure smooth operations in the dental office.

Key points that Dental Assistants should convey in a resume summary include:

Relevant Experience: Clearly mention the number of years of experience you have in dental assisting, highlighting any notable achievements or career highlights. If you have experience with different types of dental procedures or specialties that are particularly relevant to the job, mention that too.

Technical and Domain Expertise: Showcase your knowledge of dental assisting procedures, equipment, and materials. Mention any certifications or licenses you hold, such as CPR or X-ray certification.

Collaboration and Teamwork: In any dental office, collaboration and teamwork are essential. Emphasize your ability to work closely with dentists, hygienists, and other dental professionals to provide exceptional patient care.

Patient-Centric Mindset: Highlight your ability to put patients at ease, provide compassionate care, and ensure their comfort throughout their dental visit.

Organizational and Administrative Skills: Show that you can manage patient records, schedule appointments, and ensure smooth operations in the dental office.

To create a compelling resume summary, use your best judgment to choose the right combination of these key points that align closest with the individual role you’re applying for. Remember, your resume summary will be one of the first things that a potential employer will see about you and your dental assisting career.

Dental Assistant Resume Summary Examples:

Strong summaries.

• Detail-oriented Dental Assistant with 5 years of experience in providing exceptional patient care and assisting with a wide range of dental procedures. Proficient in taking digital x-rays, sterilizing instruments, and managing patient records. Dedicated to creating a comfortable and welcoming environment for patients, resulting in a 95% patient satisfaction rate.
• Certified Dental Assistant with expertise in orthodontic procedures and a passion for improving patients' oral health. Skilled in taking impressions, fitting braces, and providing patient education on proper oral hygiene. Collaborates effectively with dentists and other healthcare professionals to deliver comprehensive care. Recognized for exceptional patient communication skills and ability to put patients at ease.
• Experienced Dental Assistant with a focus on providing high-quality care to pediatric patients. Proficient in managing patient anxiety and creating a positive experience for children during dental procedures. Skilled in administering nitrous oxide and providing patient education on proper oral hygiene. Recognized for ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment and maintain a high level of professionalism.

Why these are strong:

• These resume summaries are strong for Dental Assistants as they highlight the candidates' key skills, experience, and dedication to patient care. The first summary emphasizes the candidate's attention to detail and patient satisfaction rate, making them a valuable asset to any dental practice. The second summary showcases the candidate's expertise in orthodontic procedures and their ability to collaborate effectively with other healthcare professionals. Lastly, the third summary demonstrates the candidate's focus on pediatric patients and their ability to manage patient anxiety, making them highly appealing to potential employers in pediatric dentistry.

Weak Summaries

• Dental Assistant with experience in assisting dentists with patient care, seeking a new opportunity to utilize my skills and knowledge in a dental office setting.
• Experienced Dental Assistant with knowledge of dental procedures and equipment, seeking a position in a dental practice to further develop my skills and contribute to patient care.
• Dental Assistant with a passion for helping patients and a commitment to providing quality care, seeking a position in a dental office to support the dental team and ensure patient satisfaction.
• These resume summaries need improvement for Dental Assistants as they are too general and do not provide any specific details about the candidate's experience or accomplishments. The summaries do not showcase the candidate's unique value or skills, and do not provide any quantifiable results or details on the candidate's successes in patient care or supporting the dental team.

Resume Objective Examples for Dental Assistants:

Strong objectives.

• Seeking an entry-level Dental Assistant position to utilize my strong communication skills and passion for patient care to provide exceptional service and support to the dental team and patients.
• Recent graduate of an accredited Dental Assistant program with hands-on experience in dental procedures and patient care, seeking a Dental Assistant position to apply my knowledge and skills in a fast-paced dental office.
• Detail-oriented and organized Dental Assistant with experience in managing patient records and scheduling appointments, seeking a position in a dental practice where I can contribute to the efficient operation of the office and provide excellent patient care.
• These resume objectives are strong for up and coming Dental Assistants because they showcase the candidates' passion for patient care, education, and relevant skills, while also highlighting their eagerness to learn and contribute to the success of the dental practice. The first objective emphasizes the candidate's communication skills and dedication to patient care, which are important attributes for a Dental Assistant. The second objective showcases the candidate's education and hands-on experience in dental procedures and patient care, demonstrating a strong foundation for success in the role. Lastly, the third objective highlights the candidate's experience in managing patient records and scheduling appointments, making them a promising fit for a Dental Assistant position where they can further develop their skills and contribute to the efficient operation of the dental practice.

Weak Objectives

• Seeking a Dental Assistant position where I can utilize my skills and gain experience in the field.
• Entry-level Dental Assistant looking for a job in a dental office to learn more about the industry.
• Recent graduate with a passion for dentistry seeking a Dental Assistant role to gain hands-on experience.
• These resume objectives need improvement because they lack specificity and fail to highlight the candidate's unique skills or qualifications. The first objective is too generic and doesn't provide any information about the candidate's background or relevant experience. The second objective is too vague and doesn't mention any specific skills or education that the candidate possesses. The third objective, although it mentions a passion for dentistry, doesn't elaborate on the candidate's expertise or any particular area of dental assisting they are interested in, which would make their profile more appealing to potential employers.

Generate Your Resume Summary with AI

Speed up your resume creation process with the ai resume builder . generate tailored resume summaries in seconds., how to impress with your dental assistant work experience:, best practices for your work experience section:.

• Emphasize your experience with dental procedures and terminology, including knowledge of dental instruments and equipment.
• Highlight your ability to work closely with dentists and other dental professionals to provide high-quality patient care.
• Showcase your organizational skills, including scheduling appointments, managing patient records, and maintaining a clean and safe dental environment.
• Demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively with patients, including explaining procedures and providing post-treatment instructions.
• Mention any experience with dental software and technology, such as electronic health records and digital imaging systems.
• Highlight any continuing education or certifications related to dental assisting, such as CPR certification or expanded functions training.
• Use action verbs to describe your responsibilities and accomplishments, such as "assisted with dental procedures" or "managed inventory of dental supplies."
• Quantify your achievements where possible, such as "assisted with over 100 dental procedures per month" or "maintained a 95% patient satisfaction rate."

Example Work Experiences for Dental Assistants:

Strong experiences.

Assisted dentist in all aspects of patient care, including taking and developing X-rays, preparing instruments and materials, and providing chairside support during procedures.

Educated patients on proper oral hygiene techniques and post-operative care instructions, resulting in a 25% decrease in patient complications and a 15% increase in patient satisfaction scores.

Maintained accurate patient records and appointment schedules, ensuring timely and efficient patient care and reducing wait times by 20%.

Sterilized and maintained dental instruments and equipment, adhering to strict infection control protocols and ensuring a safe and sanitary environment for patients and staff.

Managed inventory and ordering of dental supplies, reducing waste and saving the practice $5,000 annually.

Trained and supervised new dental assistants, resulting in a 50% decrease in training time and improved team morale.

• These work experiences are strong because they demonstrate a range of technical skills and responsibilities that are essential to the role of a Dental Assistant. The use of specific metrics and outcomes also highlights the candidate's ability to improve patient care and operational efficiency. Additionally, the inclusion of leadership and training experience showcases the candidate's potential for growth and advancement within the field.

Weak Experiences

Assisted dentist in various procedures, including taking X-rays, preparing materials, and sterilizing instruments.

Managed patient records and scheduling, ensuring accuracy and confidentiality.

Maintained cleanliness and organization of dental office and equipment.

Answered phones and greeted patients, providing basic information and scheduling appointments.

Assisted with administrative tasks, such as filing and data entry.

Cleaned and stocked operatories, ensuring they were ready for patient use.

• These work experiences are weak because they lack specificity and quantifiable results. They provide generic descriptions of tasks performed without showcasing the impact of the individual's work or the benefits brought to the company. To improve these bullet points, the candidate should focus on incorporating metrics to highlight their achievements, using more powerful action verbs, and providing clear context that demonstrates their leadership qualities and direct contributions to successful outcomes.

Top Skills & Keywords for Dental Assistant Resumes:

Top hard & soft skills for dental assistants, hard skills.

• Patient Care and Comfort
• Dental Radiography
• Infection Control and Sterilization
• Dental Charting and Record Keeping
• Dental Materials Knowledge
• Dental Anatomy and Terminology
• Dental Instrumentation and Tray Setup
• Dental Impressions and Models
• Dental Office Management Software
• CPR and Basic Life Support Certification
• Dental Health Education and Promotion

Soft Skills

• Attention to Detail
• Interpersonal Skills
• Communication Skills
• Problem Solving
• Critical Thinking
• Adaptability
• Multitasking
• Professionalism

Go Above & Beyond with a Dental Assistant Cover Letter

Dental assistant cover letter example: (based on resume).

As a Dental Assistant, you understand the importance of attention to detail and providing exceptional patient care. Similarly, pairing your resume with a well-crafted cover letter can set you apart from other applicants and significantly increase your chances of landing an interview. A cover letter is an extension of your resume, an opportunity to showcase your passion for the role and highlight your relevant experience. Contrary to common belief, crafting a compelling cover letter doesn't have to be a daunting task, and the benefits far outweigh the effort required.

Here are some compelling reasons for submitting a cover letter as a Dental Assistant:

• Personalize your application and showcase your genuine interest in the dental practice and the patients you will be serving
• Highlight your unique skills and experience that align with the specific job requirements, such as experience with dental software or knowledge of dental procedures
• Communicate your understanding of the dental practice's needs and how you plan to contribute to the team
• Share success stories and achievements that couldn't be accommodated in your resume, such as improving patient satisfaction or implementing new processes to increase efficiency
• Demonstrate your strong communication and interpersonal skills, which are essential for Dental Assistants
• Differentiate yourself from other applicants who might have opted not to submit a cover letter and show that you are willing to go the extra mile to secure the position.

In summary, a cover letter is a valuable tool for Dental Assistants to showcase their skills, experience, and passion for the role. It can help personalize their application and set them apart from other applicants, ultimately increasing their chances of landing an interview.

Resume FAQs for Dental Assistants:

How long should i make my dental assistant resume.

A Dental Assistant resume should ideally be one to two pages long. It should include all relevant information about your education, work experience, skills, and achievements. However, it is important to keep in mind that the length of your resume should not compromise its quality. It is better to have a concise and well-written resume than a lengthy one that is filled with irrelevant information. As a Dental Assistant, you should focus on highlighting your skills and experience in the dental field, including your knowledge of dental procedures, equipment, and patient care. Additionally, you should tailor your resume to the specific job you are applying for, highlighting the skills and experience that are most relevant to the position. Overall, a well-crafted and concise resume is key to standing out as a Dental Assistant candidate.

What is the best way to format a Dental Assistant resume?

The best way to format a Dental Assistant resume is to start with a clear and concise summary statement that highlights your skills and experience in the field. Use bullet points to list your relevant work experience, education, and certifications. Be sure to include any specialized skills or training you have received, such as experience with digital radiography or dental software programs. It is also important to include any volunteer work or community service related to the dental field. Use a professional font and keep the formatting consistent throughout the document. Finally, proofread your resume carefully to ensure that there are no spelling or grammatical errors. A well-formatted and error-free resume can help you stand out to potential employers and increase your chances of landing a job as a Dental Assistant.

Which Dental Assistant skills are most important to highlight in a resume?

When highlighting skills on a Dental Assistant resume, it is important to focus on both technical and soft skills. Technical skills may include knowledge of dental procedures, equipment, and materials, as well as proficiency in taking x-rays, sterilizing instruments, and assisting the dentist during procedures. Soft skills may include communication, teamwork, organization, and attention to detail. It is also important to tailor the skills highlighted on the resume to the specific job description and requirements. For example, if the job requires experience with a particular type of dental software, be sure to highlight that skill. Overall, a strong Dental Assistant resume should showcase a combination of technical and soft skills that demonstrate the candidate's ability to provide high-quality patient care and work effectively as part of a dental team.

How should you write a resume if you have no experience as a Dental Assistant?

If you have no experience as a Dental Assistant, you can still create a strong resume that highlights your skills and qualifications. Here are some tips to help you get started: 1. Focus on transferable skills: Even if you haven't worked as a Dental Assistant before, you may have skills and experience that are relevant to the job. For example, you may have experience working in customer service, healthcare, or administration. Highlight these skills on your resume and explain how they could be applied to a Dental Assistant role. 2. Emphasize your education: If you have completed any relevant coursework or training programs, make sure to include this information on your resume. This can show potential employers that you have a basic understanding of dental terminology, procedures, and equipment. 3. Include any relevant volunteer or internship experience: If you have volunteered or completed an internship in a dental office, make sure to include this on your resume. This can demonstrate your interest in the field and your willingness to learn. 4.

Compare Your Dental Assistant Resume to a Job Description:

• Identify opportunities to further tailor your resume to the Dental Assistant job
• Improve your keyword usage to align your experience and skills with the position
• Uncover and address potential gaps in your resume that may be important to the hiring manager

Related Resumes for Dental Assistants:

Dental assistant resume example, entry level dental assistant resume example, registered dental assistant resume example, lead dental assistant resume example, pediatric dental assistant resume example, beginner dental assistant resume example, orthodontic dental assistant resume example, more resume guidance:.

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Dental team careers

Dental hygienist.

As a dental hygienist, you will play an essential role in helping patients maintain good oral health. Performing regular cleanings and offering helpful tips for effective home care are among the key duties in your job description.

• Performs patient screening procedures, including x-rays
• Teaches patients how to practice good oral hygiene
• Applies preventive materials such as fluoride and sealants to the teeth
• Counsels patients regarding good nutrition and its impact on oral health
• Removes calculus and plaque (hard and soft deposits) from the teeth
• Dental offices of general dentists and dental specialists
• Public health agencies, hospitals and community health clinics
• Public school systems, dental schools and dental hygiene education programs
• Sales and research for dental equipment and products

Personal satisfaction: One of the most enjoyable aspects of a career in dental hygiene is working with people. Personal fulfillment comes from providing a valuable health care service while establishing trusting relationships with patients.

Prestige: As a result of their education and clinical training in a highly skilled discipline, dental hygienists are respected as valued members of the oral health care team.

Variety: Dental hygienists use a variety of interpersonal and clinical skills to meet the oral health needs of many different patients each day. Hygienists have opportunities to help special population groups such as children, the elderly and the disabled. They may also provide oral health instruction in primary and secondary schools and other settings.

Creativity: Because dental hygienists interact with such diverse population groups, they must be creative in their approach to patient management and oral health education.

Flexibility: Full-time and part-time employment options and the availability of evening and weekend hours enable dental hygienists to balance their career and lifestyle needs. Hygienists also have opportunities to work in a wide variety of settings, including private dental practices, educational and community institutions, research teams and large group practices.

Security: Dental hygiene is projected to be one of the 30 fastest growing occupations in future years. Due to the success of preventive dentistry in reducing the incidence of oral disease, the expanding older population will retain their teeth longer, and will be even more aware of the importance of regular dental care. With the emphasis on preventive care, dentists will need to employ more dental hygienists than ever before to meet the increased demand for dental services.

Opportunities for non-traditional students: If you’ve been out of school for a while but are seeking a career change, dental hygiene may be an excellent choice for you. Online learning and flexible scheduling will benefit students with family responsibilities as well as those who are working while they learn.

There are more than 300 accredited dental hygiene education programs in community colleges, technical colleges, dental schools and universities across the U.S. Most associate degree programs take at least two years to complete. Some universities offer four-year baccalaureate programs. Innovative training methods include distance learning and institution-based, didactic coursework combined with community experience.

You will receive hands-on clinical instruction in the form of supervised patient care experiences. Dental hygiene programs may also include courses in liberal arts (for example, English, speech, sociology and psychology); basic sciences (anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, immunology, chemistry, microbiology or pathology); and clinical sciences (dental hygiene, radiology and dental materials).

After completing your dental hygiene education, you may choose to seek additional training in areas such as education, business administration, basic sciences, marketing and public health.

When your coursework is complete, you can become a registered dental hygienist (RDH) by passing the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (a written test) and the authorized licensure exam in your state.

To learn more about careers in dental hygiene, contact your own dentist, dental hygienist or the dental society in your area. Arrange to visit a nearby dental office to observe a dental hygienist at work. You also can contact an accredited dental hygiene program to meet with a counselor or schedule a visit to the school. For more information on accredited dental hygiene education programs and continuing education courses, contact:

The Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA)

The American Dental Hygienists' Association (ADHA)

The American Dental Education Association (ADEA)

ADA CERP Dental Team Courses

ADACEOnline.org

Dental assistant

As a dental assistant, you will handle a wide range of tasks such as taking x-rays and impressions and helping make patients comfortable before, during and after treatment.

The duties of a dental assistant are among the most comprehensive and varied in the dental office. Although state regulations vary, responsibilities may include:

• Assisting the dentist during a variety of treatment procedures
• Taking and developing dental radiographs (x-rays)
• Asking about the patient's medical history and taking blood pressure and pulse
• Serving as an infection control officer, developing infection control protocol, and preparing and sterilizing instruments and equipment
• Helping patients feel comfortable before, during and after dental treatment
• Providing patients with oral care instructions following surgery and other procedures, such as the placement of a restoration (filling)
• Teaching patients appropriate oral hygiene strategies to maintain oral health, including tooth brushing, flossing and nutritional counseling
• Taking impressions of patients' teeth for study casts (models of teeth)
• Performing office management tasks
• Communicating with patients and suppliers, which may involve scheduling appointments, answering the telephone, billing and ordering supplies
• Solo dental practices with only one dentist
• Group practices with two or more dentists
• Specialty practices such as oral and maxillofacial surgery (removal of teeth and correction of facial deformities), orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics (straightening teeth with braces or other appliances), endodontics (root canal treatment), periodontics (treatment of gum problems), prosthodontics (replacement of lost teeth) and pediatric dentistry (treatment of children)
• Public health dentistry, including settings such as schools and clinics which focus on the prevention of dental problems within entire communities
• Hospital dental clinics, where they assist dentists in treating bedridden patients
• Dental school clinics, assisting dental students as they learn to perform dental procedures
• Insurance companies, where they may work in dental claims processing

Variety: Dental assisting is a challenging and rewarding career, demanding versatility and a willingness to assume responsibility for many different tasks.

Flexibility: Since dental assistants are in demand, career options include both full-time and part-time positions, giving you the freedom to arrange your schedule around family and lifestyle needs.

Excellent working conditions: Dental offices are interesting, pleasant, people-oriented environments.

Personal satisfaction: Dental assisting involves people contact, and with this comes the personal satisfaction of knowing you've really helped someone with a valuable health service.

• Dental assistants receive their formal education through academic programs at community colleges, vocational schools, technical institutes, universities or dental schools.
• Graduates of these programs usually receive certificates. Most academic dental assisting programs take nine to eleven months to complete.
• Some schools offer accelerated training, part-time education programs or distance learning options.
• The Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) is responsible for accrediting dental assisting programs. There are approximately 240 CODA-accredited programs in the United States.
• Most dental assistants who choose to become nationally certified take the Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) exam offered by the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB). Becoming a CDA shows that you are trained and ready to assist dentists and other dental team members in providing quality care.
• Dental assistants are eligible to take the CDA examination if they have completed a CODA-accredited program. Individuals who have trained on the job or have graduated from non-accredited programs are eligible to take the national certification examination after two years of full-time work experience as dental assistants.
• Some states also recognize passage of components of the CDA examination, such as the Radiation Health and Safety examination, or the Infection Control examination, for licensing and regulatory purposes.
• State regulations vary, and some states require or offer registration or licensure. For more information on the type of education, training or registration dental assistants must have in your state, contact your state board of dental examiners.

Contact your dentist or your local dental society to learn more about careers in dental assisting. You may be able to visit a dental office to observe dental assistants at work. You also can contact an accredited dental assisting program and arrange to talk with a counselor or visit the school.

To learn more about dental assisting careers, continuing education courses and educational programs, contact:

The American Dental Assistants Association (ADAA)

The Dental Assisting National Board, Inc. (DANB)

ADACEonline.org

Dental office manager

Dental office managers oversee many of the duties that help make a dental practice a successful business. Dental office management job titles vary. For example, titles may include office manager, patient coordinator, business manager, practice administrator, or insurance and finance coordinator.

• Manage the practice’s daily operations, including marketing and communications
• Interview, coach and supervise staff
• Make sure the practice complies with federal, state and local regulations
• Manage patient financial accounts as well as oversee the dental practice finances
• Dental practices
• Dental manufacturers or service providers

Variety: Dental office managing is a challenging and rewarding career, demanding versatility and a willingness to assume responsibility for many different tasks.

Flexibility: Career options include both full-time and part-time positions, giving you the freedom to arrange your schedule around family and lifestyle needs.

Personal satisfaction: Working as a Dental Office Manager involves people contact, and with this comes the personal satisfaction of knowing you've really helped someone with a valuable health service.

Typically, dental office managers have a variety of educational backgrounds. Some dental office managers have bachelor’s or associate degrees or some other type of formal education. But there are a variety of other educational opportunities available outside of a college or university setting.

Contact your dentist or your local dental society to learn more. You may be able to visit a dental office to observe office managers at work.

To learn more about Dental Office Management, including continuing education courses and educational programs, contact:

American Association of Dental Office Management (AADOM)

The DALE Foundation

Dental Assisting National Board (DANB)

Dental laboratory technician

Dental lab technicians blend art and science to create custom dentures, crowns, veneers and orthodontic appliances that restore smiles — and confidence.

Dental laboratory technology is both a science and an art. Since each dental patient's needs are different, the duties of a dental laboratory technician are comprehensive and varied. Although dental technicians seldom work directly with patients, except under the direction of a licensed dentist, they are valuable members of the dental care team. They work directly with dentists by following detailed written instructions and using impressions (molds) of the patient's teeth or oral soft tissues to create:

• Full dentures for patients who are missing all of their teeth
• Removable partial dentures or fixed bridges for patients who are missing only one or a few teeth
• Crowns, which are caps for teeth that are designed to restore their original size and shape
• Veneers that enhance the appearance and function of teeth
• Orthodontic appliances and splints to help straighten and protect teeth

Dental technicians work with a variety of materials including waxes, plastics, precious and non-precious alloys, stainless steel, a variety of porcelains, and composites or polymer glass combinations. Many technicians skillfully use sophisticated instruments and equipment. It is important for the technician to help create tooth replacements that are both attractive and functional.

• Most dental lab technicians work in commercial dental laboratories employing from two to 200 people.
• The average laboratory employs about five to ten technicians who may provide a full range of dental prosthetic services or specialize in producing one particular type of prosthesis (for example, removable partial dentures, crown and bridge, etc.)
• Opportunities are also available in private dental offices for technicians who like close one-on-one contact with a dentist.
• Some lab technicians work in dental schools, hospitals and companies that manufacture dental prosthetic materials.
• Dental laboratory technology education programs offer some teaching positions for experienced technicians.

Opportunity: Thanks to constant advancements in technology and materials, there is growing demand for restorative and cosmetic dentistry, creating expanded opportunities for laboratory technicians.

Flexibility: Dental lab technology is a flexible career offering several opportunities for advancement. Experienced technicians can find well-paid positions in commercial laboratories based on their technical or communication skills, become department heads in larger laboratories with supervisory responsibilities, or even own their own laboratories. Dental technicians also may teach dental technology courses in educational programs and apply their knowledge to research, sales and marketing of prosthetic materials, instruments and equipment.

Independence: Technicians perform much of their work without close supervision. They often experience the satisfaction that results from taking an entire project from start to finish.

Creativity: Dental lab technology requires the skill and touch of an artist. Technicians need to be creative when they make prostheses.

Security: The services performed by dental technicians will always be needed. With the population growing older, there will be a continued demand for prostheses which improve these individuals' nutrition, appearance and ability to speak clearly.

Personal fulfillment: Dental lab technicians experience the satisfaction of knowing they help provide a valued health care service that improves patients’ oral health and self-image. Technicians play a significant role in delivering dental health care and take pride in producing a hand-crafted product.

• Dental lab technicians may complete a two-year program at a community college, vocational school, technical college, university or dental school. Graduates of these programs receive either an associate degree or a certificate. Some programs offer a four-year baccalaureate program in dental technology.
• Most candidates need a high school diploma or equivalent to apply to an accredited dental lab technology program.
• The Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) is responsible for accrediting dental laboratory technology programs. There are 14 commission-accredited dental laboratory technology programs in the United States.
• Dental lab technicians can become certified by passing examinations that evaluate their technical skills and knowledge. The examinations are administered by the National Board for Certification in Dental Laboratory Technology .
• A dental technician who passes certification examinations becomes a Certified Dental Technician (CDT). CDTs specialize in one or more of six areas: implants, complete dentures, removable partial dentures, crown and bridge, ceramics or orthodontics.
• Maintaining the National Board Certification CDT credential requires you to commit to continuing education throughout your career. CDTs who celebrate milestone certification anniversaries are recognized throughout the profession for their contributions.

To learn more about dental lab careers, talk with your own dentist or arrange to visit a local dental laboratory. The National Association of Dental Laboratories offers helpful career resources here. The National Board for Certification in Dental Laboratory Technology also maintains a CDT mentor directory with volunteers who are ready to help candidates meet their certification goals.

Your local dental society or the local component of the National Association of Dental Laboratories will offer resources as well. You can contact an accredited program to talk with a counselor or visit the school.

The National Board for Certification in Dental Laboratory Technology (NBC)

The National Association of Dental Laboratories (NADL)

The ADA congratulates the following certified dental technicians, who have reached significant career milestones.

25 year milestones (PDF)

30 year milestones (PDF)

35 year milestones (PDF)

40 year milestones (PDF)

45 year milestones (PDF)

50 year milestones (PDF)

55 year milestones (PDF)

• Community Dental Health Coordinator (CDHC)

In 2006, the ADA launched the community dental health coordinator program to provide support and services for people who may have difficulty gaining access to quality dental care. Learn more about this emerging role and what it takes to become a CDHC.

CDHCs are trained community health workers with dental skills who work as members of the dental team. As a CDHC, your goal will be to link patients with dental care providers who are ready to serve them. You will be a bridge between underutilized resources and patients who can benefit.

CDHCs focus on case management, navigation and oral health education and promotion. They may conduct motivational interviews to reveal issues or concerns that might keep patients from seeking oral care. Community mapping — which involves helping people identify oral health resources near them — may also be part of the role.

You can find trained CDHCs working in:

• Large group practices
• Dental clinics
• Faith-based settings
• Head Start programs serving school-aged children and their families

Several dental practices may also join together to hire a CDHC that works with all participating locations.

Personal satisfaction: The CDHC role is helping millions of people who lack access to adequate dental care find the services they need. As a CDHC, you can play a significant role in improving the oral health of hundreds, even thousands of people near you.

Career security: As the dental profession works to end the disparities that block so many people from getting the oral care they need, the demand for CDHCs will expand. Career opportunities will be strong in the years ahead.

CDHCs often come from the same communities where they grew up or attended school. This ensures they have a good grasp of cultural and language barriers that might affect patient habits, concerns and needs. CDHCs are trained to:

• Work in clinics, schools, private practices and public health settings in accordance with state laws and regulations
• Collect information to help dentists provide quality care
• Help patients set goals and learn skills to improve their oral health
• Coordinate care in accordance with a dentist’s instructions
• Help patients navigate the health care system
• Provide specific clinical services such as fluoride treatments, sealants and dental x-rays

There are CDHC training programs across the country, and graduates are now working in many states. In many cases, the curriculum is integrated with dental assisting and dental hygiene programs.

To learn more about the CDHC role and how you can get started, contact your state or local dental society.

Find an overview of CDHC careers and resources from the ADA's Action for Dental Health .

• CDHC program overview (PDF)
• CDHC solutions now (PDF)

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How to become a dental assisting educator

Dental assisting is a lifelong career for many people. Some spend several decades assisting chairside and enjoy every minute of it. But one of the great aspects of the profession is that it has many other pathways to explore if you’re seeking a new career direction. For example, many dental assistants have a passion for mentoring others and passing along the knowledge they’ve gained over the years. Becoming an educator can be a natural next step for these dental assistants.

The following guide outlines the steps and requirements for becoming a dental assisting instructor.

What does the job involve?

Dental assisting instructors typically work for community colleges, vocational-technical schools, or high school programs, giving students the knowledge and tools they need for an entry-level dental assistant position. Dental assistant instructor jobs can be full- or part-time. Many instructors who work part time continue to work as chairside dental assistants. As a dental assisting educator, you’ll be responsible for preparing the curriculum materials, delivering lectures, demonstrating skills in clinical settings, and giving students hands-on experience in the lab. Additionally, you’ll evaluate students’ performance, ensure a safe learning environment, monitor class attendance, and grade assignments.

Instructors often help their students find work opportunities. Many dental assisting programs require students to complete externships or internships, allowing them to obtain real clinical experience and see what a dental office environment is like. At the end of the semester or school year, instructors often provide guidance to students on the next steps in their careers, whether it’s helping them land an entry-level job or pursue another interest.

Having a high school diploma or GED is essential for becoming a dental assisting instructor, and an associate degree or higher is often preferred. It’s also mandatory to have experience as a dental assistant. Some institutions may require you to have a diploma or certificate from a CODA-accredited dental assisting program.

Holding  Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) certification or a similar credential is often required because it demonstrates that you have a high level of competence in dental assisting. Additionally, it shows that you stay up to date on your dental assisting knowledge, as maintaining certification includes earning continuing education credits. Programs may also require you to obtain a teaching certificate or complete a course on teaching techniques, concepts, and methodologies.

There’s no universal standard for how much experience you need to become a dental assisting instructor, but you’ll need to master a variety of subject areas and clinical skills in order to teach effectively. You won’t just be educating students on basic dental terminology and anatomy; you’ll also instruct them on the ins and outs of chairside assisting, radiology, infection control, effective communication, procedures, and more.

For this reason, programs usually seek instructors with ample experience as a dental assistant. Some may require as few as two years of experience, while others want at least five. If you’ve worked in different specialties, such as orthodontics or oral surgery, that can also give you a leg up because you’ll have a wider base of knowledge from which to teach your students.

Additional skills and training

In addition to having work experience as a dental assistant, you need to have certain skills to succeed as an instructor. Many of these skills come naturally to dental assistants, such as a passion for helping others and excellent organization and planning abilities. You should also have strong written and verbal skills, be comfortable using online learning software, and know how to connect with people of all ages and backgrounds.

If you’re interested in becoming an educator, contact a local dental assisting program and see if you can shadow an instructor or observe a class. You could even reach out to your former teacher to see if you can sit in on their lecture or lab for a day. Immersing yourself in a classroom setting is often the best way to determine whether you want to pursue a career in education.

If you decide a teaching role is right for you, there are a variety of job boards where you can begin your search, such as Indeed, Google, and LinkedIn. Check the websites of vocational schools, high schools, and community colleges in your area to see if they have any available positions. You can also reach out to your professional network — whether it’s your former instructor, your dentist, or a fellow dental assistant — to see if they know of any teaching opportunities.

Read more : Educators inspire future dental assistants