Dental assistants play an important role in any dentist office or dental clinic. Not only do dental assistants help greet patients and make them feel comfortable, they also assist dentists chair side to ensure procedures and treatments go smoothly. Because the quality of care a patient receives is directly impacted by the role of a dental assistant, ita��s important that dental assistants take good care of themselves, so they can perform their tasks effectively.
If youa��re considering enrolling in a dental assisting program, read on to learn more about how you can practice self-care during your career.
1. Having a Strong Support Network Can Help Once You Become a Dental Assistant
Dental assisting is a challenging as well as rewarding career. While the majority of your patients are bound to be excellent and problem-free, you may encounter some patients who are afraid of the dentist or uneasy about their procedure. Managing and soothing these patients can sometimes be a stressful experience, which is why it can be beneficial to turn to your support network from time to time.
Professional support networks are helpful because they allow you to surround yourself with other professionals in your industry who understand the challenges of your work. Your professional support network could be a big professional organization, or can simply include a few friendly co-workers that you enjoy spending time with. In addition, having a personal support network at home will help you relax and unwind, and return to work feeling rejuvenated.
2. Practice Self-Care by Following an Active and Healthy Lifestyle
Living a healthy and active lifestyle is an important part of practicing self-care. Once you become a dental assistant, ita��ll be important that you make your health a priority. Drinking lots of water and eating healthy meals and snacks throughout the day will help ensure you have enough energy to stay alert.
Exercise is also an important part of self-care. Not only does it keep your body healthy, ita��s also a great way to relieve tension and unwind. You dona��t necessarily have to spend hours in the gym, either. You can simply try a fun physical activity like taking a yoga or zumba class, going for a bike ride, or going for a walk around your neighbourhood.
3. Make Sure to Practice Good Posture While on the Job
Another way you can practice self-care while on the job is by maintaining good posture. At first, after you complete your dental assistant training, you might find working on your feet all day to be a challenge if you dona��t have proper posture. However, good shoes and working towards correcting your posture can go a long way. Always remember to keep your shoulders back and your back straight, so you can comfortably focus on the task at hand and avoid any discomfort throughout your career.
4. Once You Become a Dental Assistant, Try Journaling to Relieve Stress
Journaling is an excellent way to decompress after a day at the office. Even on good days, the process of journaling your thoughts, experiences, and accomplishments will help you clear your mind, so you can focus on your home life.
If youa��ve always wanted to try journaling, but have had a hard time getting started, try using writing prompts for inspiration. There are plenty of online resources with writing ideas like a�?what did you do well today?a�? that can help you get the ball rolling. If journaling isna��t for you, reading a good book is another excellent way to unwind after a busy day.
Do you want to learn more about dental assistant college programs?
Contact the Canadian Academy of Dental Health to learn more!