37 Employment Strategies

2 Obtaining National Certification Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) –Three major categories Radiology Infection control General chairside –Obtain certification through three pathways

3 Pathway I Graduate from American Dental Association (ADA) –Accredited dental assisting or hygiene program Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) –Certified Two-year eligibility

4 Pathway II High school graduate or GED Minimum of two years of work experience CPR –Certified Two-year eligibility

5 Pathway III Status as current or previous DANB certified dental assistant (CDA) –Graduation from a doctor of dental science (DDS) –Doctor of medical dentistry (DMD) program accredited by the ADA

6 Pathway III CPR –Certified Two-year eligibility

7 Employment Solo or partnership practice Group practice Dental specialty practice

8 Employment Other employment choices –School clinics and laboratories –Veterans’ hospitals –Dental supply companies –Insurance companies

9 Employment Search What qualities are desired by employer? What areas of growth are available in the situation? What strengths could I bring to the position?

10 Employment Search What areas could be improved? Overall, what type of dentistry is interesting to me?

11 Preparing a Cover Letter and a Resumé Cover letter –Communicate your potential value and any specific personal attributes to employer

12 Preparing a Cover Letter and a Resumé Resumé –Present specific information in an attractive and professional format –Stress achievements and skills related to employment

13 Personal Portfolio Share with the dental office your certificates and letters of recommendation

14 Interview Process Leaving the interview and following up –Send a follow-up thank-you letter after an interview Receiving an offer of employment –Appropriate time to ask about benefits and salary if not discussed during the interview

15 Professional Conduct During Employment Maintain a professional appearance on the job

16 Successful Career Terminating employment –Evaluate career goals and decide if a move is a necessary action –Always leave on good terms in case you need to return

17 Successful Career Continued success –Dental assisting is a rewarding career both personally and professionally –Continue to stay challenged and knowledgeable!