Do you live in Florida and are ready to become a dental assistant? Wondering if you need a license or formal training? The good news is that Meridian College has you covered. This blog article will explain what you need to do to become a dental assistant in Florida. So, do you need a dental assistant license in Florida?
Do You Need a License to be a Dental Assistant in Florida?
The answer to this question is no; a dental assistant license is not required to become a dental assistant in Florida. In the past, you might have seen that many dental assistants started in the dentist’s back office, supported the dentist and hygienist, and worked their way up to becoming dental assistants. However, the current hiring environment has changed its dynamic. Employers are looking for trained “entry-level” dental assistants. So, how can you get a job if you have yet to work as a dental assistant? The best option is to attend the Dental Assistant program at Meridian College.
Reasons Why Getting a Dental Assistant Diploma is Important
There are many reasons to get a dental assistant diploma at Meridian College. These reasons include:
#1: Employers are Looking for Trained “Entry-Level” Dental Assistants
Most employers want trained dental assistants to reduce the burden on resources and accelerate the time it takes for new employees to start working independently. Why hire a new dental assistant and spend a year training them when candidates already have educational experience?
#2: The Liability in the Dental Field
The medical and dental fields are heavily regulated, and sometimes patients sue for malpractice. Since there is a liability in the dental field, employers want to hire trained dental assistants who won’t make mistakes or errors. Having the proper knowledge and skillset is vital to limit liability.
#3: A Competitive Work Environment
Even though dental assistants are in demand, there are many candidates completing vocational training and applying for dental assistant roles in Florida. Don’t get left behind. Take the time to complete dental assistant training and allow yourself to compete in this competitive work environment.
#4: No Knowledge Gaps
Starting as a dental assistant trainee may sound like the best option. This can get you started quickly, but it can leave knowledge gaps you didn’t even know you have. Starting from scratch in a trainee position means you do what you are assigned. You might start by sterilizing instruments or shadowing the current dental assistant and watch what they do. You end up doing a limited number of tasks without a complete understanding of the dental assistant role. However, attending the Dental Assistant program at Meridian College will allow you to lay a solid educational foundation you can build upon throughout your career.
By completing the Dental Assistant program, you will work on all aspects of dental assisting. Bridges, dentures, dental prosthetics, polishing clinical crowns, applying topical fluorides and anesthetics, suture removal, and applying liners and sealants. No stone is left unturned, and you are ready to take on any task as you start working as a dental assistant.
#5: Career Services
One of the best reasons to attend the Dental Assistant program at Meridian College is our career services. We help you build a strong resume, prepare you for those important job interviews, and match you with employment opportunities. We have strong ties in the Florida communities, and employers look to Meridian College for highly trained dental assistants ready to hit the ground running.
Want to Learn More?
The Dental Assistant training program at Meridian College provides extensive hands-on training, including a school externship at a dental office where you will assist the dentist in treating actual patients.
Meridian College also has dedicated school instructors who offer dental assisting training that can help you get an entry-level position at a dentist’s office or dental clinic. You get to work in real-world situations and use your training from classroom lectures to further your skills during lab work.
Contact Meridian College today to learn more about becoming a dental assistant.