Author: Sherri Merritt

The dental industry is and has been a cornerstone of healthcare and is essential for maintaining overall well-being and quality of life. However, as we step into 2025, dental practices across the world continue to face a persistent and growing challenge: staffing shortages.  From dental hygienists to dental assistants, to administrative personnel, the struggle to attract and retain qualified (and quality) professionals is impacting both the delivery of care and

Dental assistants are the unsung heroes of dental practices, playing a crucial role in ensuring patients receive quality care and that the office runs smoothly. However, their position comes with unique challenges that are often overlooked, from physical and emotional demands to navigating patient expectations and office dynamics. Dental assistants face a multitude of struggles daily. Physical Demands of the Job The physical strain of being a dental assistant is

In today’s dental world, finding the right work-home is crucial to your professional growth and your job satisfaction.  Many dental professionals have started taking on temporary positions in various offices, allowing them to determine what they want and don’t want in a work environment.  Professionals who work in various dental offices are provided the opportunity to explore practice styles, cultures, and specialties, allowing them to not only gain experience but

Becoming an ultimate assistant involves more than just technical skills; it requires a blend of professionalism, preparedness, communication, and continuous learning. Here are ten tips to help you excel in your role and make a lasting impact on your patients and practice. Come to Work Prepared with a Positive Attitude Start each day with a positive attitude. It sets the tone for your interactions and helps you approach your tasks

Investing in the training and development of dental assistants is crucial for the overall success and efficiency of a dental practice. Well-trained dental assistants can significantly enhance patient care, improve practice efficiency, free up valuable, productive doctor time, and contribute to a positive work environment. Here are several compelling reasons why dentists should prioritize training for their dental assistants. Enhanced Patient Care and Satisfaction Improving and adding to dental assistants

Performance reviews are an essential aspect of career growth and development for dental assistants. They provide an opportunity to receive feedback, discuss career goals, and negotiate raises or professional development opportunities. Preparing effectively for a performance review can significantly impact your career trajectory. Here are ten tips to help you get ready for your performance review with your dentist. Understand the Purpose of the Review Before you begin preparing, it’s