An Inside View of Dental Assisting Training

Hien Dang
Dental Assisting Training Student
Seattle Vocational Institute

As a part of the community college system, Seattle Vocational Institute’s (SVI) one-year dental assisting training program provided an affordable option.

"The classes here are relatively inexpensive, and my financial aid paid for all of it. I haven't had to work, which allows me to totally concentrate on learning."

Dang enjoys the theoretical part of her training. “We studied radiology, what x-rays are, and how to be safe in the office. I like learning the science and the techniques of doing each procedure."

"The hands-on learning is harder for me. I feel nervous when I'm working with a doctor, especially the first time we're doing a procedure. My first big procedure I did forget something, but the doctor was really nice. He asked questions and helped me along, so everything went okay."

The SVI dental assisting training program includes an externship in two different places. The teacher who coordinates the externship "knows us very well, and she places us at sites where she thinks we'll do well. I'll probably go to the clinic at the University of Washington—they have general dentistry, oral maxifocal surgery and orthodontics."

"Usually we start with a general practice, and then if we want to specialize, we can go into that area in the second half of the externship. I made a request to go into prosthodontics—bridges and dentures. Our coordinator wants to be sure we get the experience we want to learn everything we can."

Dang's interest in prosthodontics relates to a larger goal: to find a position as a dental lab technician in the future. “I haven’t found any schools that focus on dental lab technology; it’s more of an on-the-job training situation. The labs make dentures, crowns and bridges. I like to create things and make art, so I’m interested in the craft aspects of the lab work.”

For Dang, taking on the role of dental assistant means adopting a more professional image. “Dental assisting is a conservative, professional job. We have to make sure the patients trust us and keep the office orderly. We can’t do anything that might upset anyone; we have to make sure that what we say is reassuring and always makes the practice look good.”

Dental assisting offers Dang a stable and well paying job, along with the possibility of shifting to a more technical position in the future. “It’s a job that can support me in all my interests. People should know that it’s a good way to support yourself, but it takes a lot of hard work. You have to like working with people and hearing their stories. That’s one of the best parts!”