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15 Dental Assistant Resume Examples That Work in 2024

Dental Assistant

Best for mid and entry-level candidates.

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• Dental Assistant Resume
• Dental Assistant Resumes by Experience
• Dental Assistant Resumes by Role

Writing Your Dental Assistant Resume

Dental assistants are a tremendous asset to any dental office, but it’s not always easy coming up with what to say when you’re applying for a job. After all, how are you supposed to put all your expertise on one page?

If this sounds familiar, then know that the goal of this post is to lift some of that burden by providing essential tips and showing you exactly what you need to do to  build a professional resume .

These 15 dental assistant resume samples have  helped real dental assistants land jobs,  and our writing guide can help you learn the nitty-gritty of resume writing (or cover letter writing ) so you can land your next great dental assistant role in 2024.

Dental Assistant Resume Example

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Why this resume works

• Some states (like Iowa) have dental assistant programs designed for people specifically with no certification. You learn the skills on the job so you can eventually apply to get certified! 
• Metrics quantify your impact and let your future employer know that you did something special. 

Experienced Dental Assistant Resume

• Certification for dental assistants varies state by state, but nearly all dental assistant jobs require you have either cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) certification or Basic Life Support (BLS) certification. So if you have either, be sure to mention it on your experienced dental assistant resume.
• We’d recommend having six to eight skills, such as “X-rays” and “4-handed dentistry.”

Inexperienced Dental Assistant Resume

• Be sure to include activities that demonstrate leadership when possible, like being on a sports team or the president of a club.
• If you decide to include a  resume objective , make sure you customize it for each job to which you apply. The most effective way to do that is to include the company name, followed by a sentence or two explaining your strengths that mirror some of the requirements in the  dental assistant job description .

Dental Assistant Externship  Resume Example

• For your projects, add any instances of using dental tools even if it was only at a seminar. Next, use the career objective space to convince the employer that you’re more than ready to be an extern with your current knowledge.

Dental Assistant-In-Training Resume

• Never fear, rely on transferable skills! Positions like office assistant jobs do a great job demonstrating your capacity to provide quality customer service and vast knowledge of electronic medical records.
• We’d also recommend adding a  resume objective  (also called a career objective) to highlight your passion for the role you’re applying to and your relevant skills.
• If you do include an objective, always include the company name and the specific job you’re seeking. Customization is vital!

Lead Dental Assistant  Resume Example

• Remember to include how junior dental assistants have flourished under your supervision as a way of demonstrating your leadership skills and capacity building for future professionals.

Endodontic Dental Assistant Resume

• The next step is giving these skills extra weight by adding quantified bullet points that display how you’ve used each tool to create direct impacts like boosting successful surgery rates or reducing scan-to-report turnaround times.
• Need more space to tell your story? Add the how and why of it all to your dental assistant cover letter .

Chairside Dental Assistant Resume

• Did you earn a high patient satisfaction rating? Are you proficient in cutting-edge dental tools? If yes, highlighting these achievements will add a competitive advantage to your chairside dental assistant resume.

Pediatric Dental Assistant Resume Example

• Colleges around the country offer what are usually 1-year programs in dental assisting, with the goal being certification (usually candidates need to pass the Dental Assisting National Board’s Certified Dental Assistant exam). If you’ve attended such a program, be sure to include it in the “Education” section of your pediatric dental assistant resume .
• If you’re stuck, try using a  resume outline  to get a sense of what your work experience bullet points should look like (and what the rest of your resume should look like, too). 

Oral Surgery Assistant Resume

• If you’re applying to a dental assisting job in oral surgery and you have experience in that field, then create a separate copy of your resume focusing on those aspects of your past work. 
• You’ve already seen some  good resume examples , but it can help to look at other examples within the dental field so you can note specific verbs, metrics, and skills listed there.
• Don’t plagiarize, of course; simply use the examples to give you a boost to write your own resume.

Orthodontic Dental Assistant Resume

• Including numbers on your orthodontic dental assistant resume will demonstrate your value on the job and confirm that you’re the best person for a role requiring specific job skills, like taking impressions and understanding EMR.
• First, that’s a red flag. It speaks strongly of plagiarism (plus it’s not creative).
• Secondly, simply restating the job description doesn’t make a strong sell on why you’re a better choice than the competition. Instead, focus on your accomplishments and achievements (use those numbers we just talked about) to show how you provided value beyond the basic job description.

Dental Hygiene Assistant Resume

• Many people try to emphasize education, but if you’re a few years out from your school days, it’s not relevant. Just include the basics and focus on your work experience.
• Even professional headshots can make a resume look less than professional, and they can even cause bias in the recruitment process.
• Before you go overboard, remember: your resume needs to be easy to read and pleasing to the eye. So use a different font and some color for your section headers, but keep your body text untouched.
• Tip: Find out the color scheme at the dental office you’re applying to, and use that color to complement your application!

Registered Dental Assistant Resume

• For example, a  resume objective  is great for showing off transferable skills and recent experiences if you’re just starting out in your career.
• Once you’ve nailed that content, feel free to add optional sections!
• Be sure to use the exact title widely accepted by your state on your registered dental assistant resume.

Expanded Functions Dental Assistant Resume

• Words   alone can’t provide enough evidence for your skills. Try to include numbers on the number of dental techniques you’ve mastered, or the number of patients you see per hour.
• Aim to include metrics in at least half of your bullet points, but don’t be afraid to add more if you can incorporate them naturally.
• Remember: no matter how pretty your  resume template  is, it won’t make up for content and formatting, so make sure you’re setting yourself up for success!

Certified Dental Assistant Resume

• For example, if you include a waitressing position from a few years ago, discuss responsibilities that highlight your abilities with customer service, time management, and communication. These universal skills can easily translate to a dental assistant role.
• We’d recommend formatting your resume in  reverse-chronological  order, with your most current work experience toward the top of the page. This helps highlight your most recent and, probably, most relevant job title.

Related resume guides

• Medical assistant
• Nursing assistant
• Dental hygienist

Dental assistant job postings reflect the variety of responsibilities this flexible career offers and requires. Since a dental assistant will complete various tasks every day, a strong resume for this position should reveal your abilities and responsibilities on the job. Your dental assistant resume should focus on the quantifiable skills and abilities specified in the job description.

Dental practices typically use Applicant Tracking System (ATS) recruiting software to scan applications for key terms, reducing the need for hands-on application review for the first hiring round. So, your resume may need updating to pass the ATS scanning. When creating your dental assistant resume, pay attention to these four areas to increase your odds of successfully moving on to the interview process:

• Emphasizing specific dental assistant skills
• Formatting your dental assistant resume properly
• Utilizing an objective and summary 
• Using quantifiable points 

Emphasize your dental assistant skills

When recruiters hire dental assistants, they use a three-step process to weed out candidates:

• Hiring directors narrow down candidates for minimum qualifications (usually by using ATS). Filters are set to catch basic qualifications regarding experience and key terms or phrases.
• Next, recruiters look for a set of preferred qualifications. Applicants who meet these criteria remain in the application process.
• Lastly, employers shortlist and rank candidates based on their fit with the minimum and preferred qualifications. 

To pass the ATS filtering and move on to the next phase of the process,  your resume should contain key terms and phrases from the employer’s job description.  The  skills section on your resume  is the place to explain your abilities within the scope of the dental assistant job.

You can add soft skills, like interpersonal communication, or hard skills, which are job-specific abilities learned and perfected in specific careers. Resumes that reflect the soft and hard skills the employer is looking for will pass through the ATS filter and on through the application process. Some of the top soft and hard dental assistant skills employers are looking for are:

• Dental equipment knowledge (hard skill)—shows the applicant can complete basic dental assistant tasks
• Electronic Medical Records (EMR) experience (hard skill)—shows the applicant can utilize an online data system for employer
• Medical licensing (hard skill)—indicates up-to-date, recognized proficiencies (could be a minimum requirement)
• Communication skills (soft skill)—shows abilities with positive patient interactions
• Team player (soft skill)— indicates the ability to work with others in the office
• Customer service (soft skill)—shows applicant will put the patient’s needs first
• Highly organized (soft skill)—indicates applicant can prioritize tasks and complete work on time
• X-ray experience (hard skill)—shows precise (and likely preferred) experience and training
• Vital signs (hard skill)—shows future employer ability to complete routine, necessary tasks
• Patient safety (hard skill)—indicates the ability to follow required safety steps and policies

Don’t feel pressured to put every skill on your resume to pass the ATS scan. Instead, customize your resume to match the  dental assistant job description  by finding keywords in the description and adding some to your own dental assistant resume.

Format your dental assistant resume properly

For most job seekers,  properly formatting a resume  is a huge hurdle. Your resume should of course show important details like experience, education, and applicable skill sets, but resume formatting plays a huge role in how the ATS and the hiring manager read your resume. 

Many job seekers get caught up in stylizing their resume instead of simply making minor changes to a  resume template . You don’t have to go overboard to get your resume noticed, so keep your formatting simple

Let’s look at the most vital aspects when formatting your resume for a dental assistant position:

• Pare things down by using simplified wording, removing stylized lines or graphic additions, deleting extra spacing, and removing redundancies.
• Use  bullet points  to narrow your focus and keep things short.
• Avoid using icons or images . The ATS only searches for keywords, icons and graphics won’t help the application process.
• Include the title of the position you’re seeking  on your resume to emphasize your focus or goal.
• Check, double-check, and recheck your resume to ensure  no errors . Spelling errors and other basic mistakes can be a huge turnoff to a future employer since they highlight an applicant’s lack of attention to detail. Send the resume through our  free resume checker  and have another set of eyes look at it before sending it off in an application.
• Decide if you need to include an objective or summary . If so, prioritize its location on your resume to highlight this standout feature.

Your dental assistant resume objective or summary

For some job seekers, you might want to add an  objective to your resume . Some argue that it’s antiquated, but they can be useful if you know how to use them correctly.

What exactly  is  an objective? A resume objective is a way to show a prospective employer your job aspirations and what kind of job you’re seeking. This section is best for applicants new to a field or with experience that doesn’t exactly relate to their ideal position.

In other words, if your goal is to be a dental assistant, but you don’t yet have experience, you could use an objective statement. Comprise your resume objective with two to three sentences explaining you are seeking a dental assistant position as your current career goal and why.

On the other hand, you could choose to add a  summary to your resume  instead. You use a summary if you have at least 10 years of experience in the field. Per its name, a summary summarizes your best achievements and your top skills. It’s a great way to increase your credibility within two to three sentences.

Boost your dental assistant resume with quantifiable points

Like in many careers, using specific data is a concrete way to show value. Generic, vague statements won’t do anything to help you get a job, so use details that strengthen your accomplishments. (Our tip? Try to answer the “how” in most of your work experience bullet points.) You want to show future employers exactly what you’ve done, what you’re capable of, and what they can expect of you if hired. But what does that look like on a resume? 

Here are some ways a dental assistant can show the quantifiable impact:

• Explain a percentage increase in patient retention
• Convey increase in patient satisfaction
• Relay the number of patients seen per shift
• Detail the percentage of reduced cavities experienced with patient education provided
• Listing the total number of clients assisted in a procedure

Once you pinpoint a valuable action of interest to an employer, quantify the impact you made (aka explain the results of your actions). Here are a few examples of strong job-specific quantified points that might be used as a bullet point on your dental assistant resume:

Tailor your resume for each dental assistant job application

By scanning the job posting, you should customize your dental assistant resume to match what the employer is looking for in a candidate for each of these categories:

• Objective/summary—rework your objective statement to include the company’s name, the job title you’re seeking, and specific skills related to the job description.
• Skills—add your skills to the resume you’ve listed on the job posting. Remove any that are not relevant to the job you’re applying for so you can make room for those the ATS will identify.
• Job description bullet points—some of your quantifiable points should echo what’s listed in the job description by using specific keywords and phrases.

Dental assistant resume

Once you have some expertise as a dental assistant, you can  build your resume  to emphasize your time in the field. This will help you stand out from other applicants. Here are some ways to customize your dental assistant resume with some experience in the field:

• List all certifications you’ve earned
• Include quantifiable points that show increases in revenue for dental practices
• Explain how you improved the dental office revenue, patient volume, or another valuable metric

You can list your certifications toward the bottom of your resume, similar to this:

Entry-level dental assistant resume

• Include basic certifications like CPR, since it’s an expectation for most dental practices
• List relevant experience highlighting soft skills that can be utilized as a dental assistant
• Show hobbies and interests that may indicate leadership or other positive qualities
• Mirror the job description in your resume objective, even noting the company name in the career goal

Pediatric dental assistant resume

For a specialized dental assistant resume at a pediatric office, add in some customized details like these to help you stand out from other applicants:

• Soft skill experience demonstrating any work with youth or children
• Include hard and soft skills that are especially vital to working with children, like patience or safety procedures
• List descriptions of excellent customer service provided to patients

Orthodontic dental assistant resume

When customizing your orthodontic dental assistant resume for a job in an orthodontic office, think about adding specifics to showcase your resume:

• Show soft skills that demonstrate the high-quality patient care you provided
• Include quantifiable points that focus on patient satisfaction or happiness
• Add certifications that are valuable in an orthodontic office, like x-ray qualifications

Certified dental assistant resume

When applying for a job as a certified dental assistant, include such customizations to your resume as:

• Using numbers to show your value above other candidates
• List jobs in reverse-chronological order to focus first on your most relevant job experience
• Include past positions that bring relevant soft skills to a potential employer’s attention, even if the job title isn’t relevant

Your dental assistant resume recap

Congratulations  on taking the first step toward your career as a dental assistant! With a little thoughtful customization, your dental assistant pursuit is easily within reach. 

During the process, use our  online resume builder  to help you create your most effective product right from the start. If you already have a working draft, feel free to use our AI-powered  online resume checker  to polish your product for any future job applications.

• • Assisted in over 500 dental procedures, including fillings, extractions, and root canals, maintaining a 99% patient satisfaction rate.
• • Managed patient records and appointments using Dentrix software, resulting in a 20% increase in clinic efficiency.
• • Implemented a new sterilization protocol for dental instruments, reducing cross-contamination risks by 30%.
• • Shadowed experienced dental assistants in over 200 implant procedures, gaining valuable insights into complex dental care.
• • Contributed to patient education on post-surgical care, leading to a 15% decrease in post-operative complications.
• • Organized dental supplies inventory, ensuring availability of necessary materials for all scheduled procedures.

11 Dental Assistant Resume Examples & Guide for 2024

Your dental assistant resume must clearly highlight your clinical skills. Include any specialized training, such as in radiology or infection control. Additionally, your dental assistant resume should showcase your patient care abilities. Demonstrate experience with dental health procedures and patient communication.

All resume examples in this guide

Senior Dental Assistant

Entry Level Dental Assistant

Pediatric Dental Assistant

Dental Hygienist

Dental Assistant-In-Training

Oral Surgery Assistant

Orthodontic Dental Assistant

Dental Hygiene Assistant

Expanded Functions Dental Assistant

Certified Dental Assistant

Dental Assistant | Patient Care | Radiology resume example

Resume Guide

Dental Assistant Resume Example

Resume Format

Resume Experience

Hard & Soft Skills

Certifications & Education

Resume Summary Tips

Additional Resume Sections

Key Takeaways

By Experience

Like chameleons, dental assistants adapt to their environment, fitting in wherever needed. Scheduling appointments, greeting patients with a friendly smile, prepping rooms and equipment, assisting in procedures, managing office supplies and patient records, dental assistants are the unsung heroes of the dental office.

This guide, with examples and pro-tips, will ensure your numerous skills and qualifications are evident in the limited space available on your dental assistant resume. As well as addressing these common resume-writing challenges dental assistants encounter:

• C ertification and licensure requirements for dental assistants vary based on location and employer, making it difficult to determine which to include on your resume.
• As a dental assistant, you may have diverse skill sets, and choosing the most relevant ones for a particular job can be difficult.
• Choosing the most effective keywords for your resume can be tricky since they may vary among dental assistant jobs.
• The high demand for dental assistants means many enter the field without prior experience.  We have tips and tricks to help you combat that.

To see additional resumes and cover letter guides for related positions, check out these as well:

• Dental nurse resume & guide
• Dental hygienist resume & guide
• Entry level dental assistant resume & guide
• Pediatric dental assistant resume & guide
• Dental assistant cover letter & guide  

Dental assistant  resume example

Here's what this applicant does well in their resume:

• Highlighting practical experience: The resume effectively showcases hands-on experience in dental procedures, including assisting in over 500 dental procedures and gaining experience in a dental implant center. This demonstrates practical skills crucial for a Dental Assistant.
• Quantifying achievements: By quantifying achievements, like a 99% patient satisfaction rate and reducing post-operative complications by 15%, the resume conveys the applicant's effectiveness and impact in previous roles.
• Specialized certifications and skills: Including a Certified Dental Assistant certification and specialized training in Radiology Safety and Techniques, along with skills in patient care, radiology, and Dentrix software, aligns well with the requirements for a Dental Assistant role.

How to format a dental assistant  resume

Your resume’s formatting is an opportunity to demonstrate technical skills in creating well-formatted, easy-to-read documents, an administrative task you may be asked to perform as a dental assistant.

To ensure your resume is well-organized, professional, and memorable, follow these formatting best practices:

• Creative Elements: Include creative elements  like colors and decorative patterns to make your resume unique and memorable.
• Header Content: A prominent header  featuring your name, desired job title, and contact information  lets employers view them at a glance.  
• Ordering: List all section examples in reverse chronological order  to ensure your most recent and relevant appear first.

Understanding Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) is critical when formatting your dental assistant resume.

ATS analyzes text on resumes, looking for exact keywords or phrases corresponding to desired skills and qualifications for a specific job. Employers use these systems to quickly sort and prioritize resumes to consider the most qualified candidates.

Here’s what’s considered “best practices” for ATS-optimized formatting on your dental assistant resume:

• Fonts: Select ATS-friendly fonts matching the overall style of your resume. Some ATS-friendly fonts are Calibri, Arial, and Times New Roman. However, by employing these overused fonts, you may miss a chance to make your resume stand out. For interesting, modern font options with great readability, try Rubik, Lato, Montserrat, Raleway, Exo 2, or Volkhov, all available on the Enhancv Resume Builder.
• Document Type: PDF files  are standard for resumes to ensure formatting is maintained and ATS can easily identify and analyze text.
• Creative Elements in Text: Avoid using nonessential stylistic features within text. Elements such as emojis for bullets and non-standard date formats can impede ATS’ ability to recognize information in these sections.
• Headings and Subheadings: Ensure resume sections are organized and include simple, precise headings. Standard section titles ensure ATS accurately recognizes and extracts information from these sections.

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To improve the organization and ATS optimization of your resume, include the following top-recommended sections:

The top sections on a dental assistant resume:

• Contact Information: This allows prospective employers to know who the resume belongs to and how to get in touch with the candidate.
• Personal Statement: A brief, concise explanation of the candidate's motivation for becoming a dental assistant and the unique skills or experiences they bring.
• Certifications and Licenses: In the field of dental assistance, certain qualifications or licenses can be legally required, proving the candidate's ability to carry out the specific tasks.
• Experience: A short history of the candidate's related work experience to verify their skills.
• Clinical skills: Recruiters prioritize proficiency in clinical tasks central to patient care.
• Administrative skills: These are vital to maintaining patient records and office efficiency.

While applicants may have unique backgrounds and qualifications, be sure to include these highly sought-after qualifications on your dental assistant resume when possible:

What recruiters want to see on your resume:

• Dental a ssisting c ertification: Many states require dental assistants to be certified, so this is often a top priority for recruiters to ensure the candidate meets legal requirements.
• Experience with d ental s oftware: Knowledge of specific dental software such as Dentrix or Eaglesoft shows an ability to manage patient data and scheduling, which can be critical in dental offices.
• X-Ray c ertification: In many cases, dental assistants might be required to take x-rays; hence having this certification can make the candidate more attractive to recruiters.
• Basic l ife s upport s kills: Dental procedures can sometimes lead to medical emergencies, so candidates with life support skills are typically highly valued.
• Chairside m anner: Recruiters often prioritize dental assistants who demonstrate good interpersonal skills, as they need to interact with patients, easing their worries and explaining procedures.

How to write your dental assistant resume experience

The daily responsibilities of dental assistants vary depending on their credentials and the size and specialization of the dental office where they work. Therefore, it’s critical to highlight employment experiences requiring equivalent skills to the position you are applying for.  

To quickly and easily create a targeted dental assistant resume  for each application, follow these steps:  

• Create a resume template including a complete list of your experiences, certifications, education, and skills.
• Make a copy of the template for each new application.
• Review the job description for each new job you apply to, paying close attention to the ideal candidate description.
• In the copy of the template, delete all examples that don't align with the job description.
• Edit remaining examples to ensure they include keywords  directly copied from the job description for increased ATS optimization.

The experience section  of your dental assistant resume should be more than a list of tasks you performed. It’s an opportunity to share the specialized skills you developed and the achievements you made in those past positions. This reveals not only what you did but how successfully you did it.

Take a look at the following experience examples to better understand how focusing on achievements rather than duties improves an experience description.

• • Worked reception answering phone calls, scheduling appointments, and checking in patients.
• • Assisted the dentist in various procedures.
• • Conducted preliminary patient assessments and recorded medical histories.
• • Updated patient records using electronic health records (EHR) systems.

This applicant fails to use active verbs and specific details to document their accomplishments in this role. The description of their duties comes off as generic and doesn’t reflect how well they performed these tasks, which could set them apart from other applicants who performed many of the same tasks.

• • Managed front desk responsibilities, seeing an average of 30 patients daily, including scheduling appointments, answering phone calls, and handling patient inquiries with professionalism and courtesy.
• • Created education flyers to distribute to patients on topics including post-treatment care, oral hygiene practices, and preventive measures, contributing to improved patient satisfaction and compliance.
• • Collaborated with the dental team to implement infection control protocols, maintaining a safe and hygienic working environment.
• • Successfully completed 8 bi-annual professional development sessions to stay current with industry trends, technologies, and best practices.

This applicant does an excellent job using active verbs to indicate they not only performed their assigned duties but actively contributed by managing, creating, collaborating on, and completing them. It’s evident from this description that the applicant was successful and gained valuable experience in this job.

Additionally, they do a nice job including examples and keywords to describe their skills and qualifications for ATS optimization.

How to quantify impact on your resume

An excellent way to stand out amongst other applicants and boost your resume impact  is to include quantifiable evidence of your skills and abilities in your experience descriptions. These are tangible, measurable, or verifiable details that highlight your accomplishments  in past jobs.

The example above provides an excellent example of incorporating quantifiable evidence:

“Successfully completed 8 bi-annual professional development sessions to stay current with industry trends, technologies, and best practices.”

This applicant stated the number of professional development sessions completed to clarify their dedication to continued learning and staying current in the industry.

In addition to sharing the number of completed training sessions, workshops, or certifications, there are many other ways to quantify your impact. Here are a few additional options for using numbers and data  to quantify your skills in your experience descriptions:

• Share a percentage increase in efficiency or patient satisfaction to illustrate the effectiveness of your efforts.
• State the number of patients assisted daily to demonstrate efficiency and capacity to manage a fast-paced environment and large workload.
• Note how many dental procedures you are proficient in to highlight your diverse skill set.
• Identify the size of office staff you've worked with to indicate your experience collaborating as a team member.
• Detail the number of patient records you've managed to showcase your ability to organize and maintain high volumes of patient data.
• Share the amount of office management software or dental equipment you're proficient using to emphasize your technical acumen.
• Mention reductions in wait times or operational costs you contributed to illustrate your efficiency and attention to detail.

When including numbers and statistics, be selective by only mentioning data relevant to the position you're applying for. For example, a small dental practice focused on positive patient experience will be more impressed by how your efforts resulted in an increased percentage of patient satisfaction than how many patients you treated daily in a large, fast-paced dental office.

How do I write a dental assistant resume with no experience

Some employers offer applicants on-the-job training or certification contingent employment, creating opportunities for applicants without prior dental assistant experience.

However, there are additional considerations to keep in mind when writing a dental assistant resume with no experience . A crucial element is ensuring experiences highlight transferable skills, such as employment, temp work , or even medical or dental office volunteering.

Follow these steps to write an experience section highlighting transferable skills without dental assistant experience:

• Compile a list of keywords from the job description.
• Brainstorm previous employment, educational, or volunteer experiences that showcase the same keyword skills and knowledge from the job description.
• To add credibility, include tangible evidence of these skills, such as certifications, achievements, and quantifiable data.
• Avoid including irrelevant work experiences  or outdated experiences .
• List experiences in reverse chronological order to ensure your most recent and relevant examples appear first.

Don’t worry about explaining or giving details about how your transferable skills align with the job you are applying for in your resume. Your  dental assistant cover letter  is an excellent opportunity to detail further how your background aligns with the open position.

Without dental assistant experience, this section aims to share related jobs and transferable skills, especially those in medical or dental environments. The best way to demonstrate your potential to succeed in the available position is to utilize keywords from the job description in your examples.

How to list your hard skills and soft skills on your resume

The skills section  of your dental assistant resume can be intimidating since an extensive list may be necessary to highlight the broad range of skills required of dental assistants.

Include subsections where appropriate to keep your skills lists manageable—for instance, listing hard and soft skills in separate sections. In addition, you can organize hard skills by creating subsections for clinical and administrative skills.

Additionally, you can trim a lengthy skills section by tailoring it to the desired position. The skills an employer values most will depend on many factors, such as the size of the office, patient demographics, number of employees, and dental specialty. Therefore, it's not necessary to include every skill for every application.

Hard skills - in a nutshell

Hard skills  are skills necessary to perform a particular job. They typically require study, training, and practice.

 In the dental field, hard skills often require certification and reflect technical abilities, like using office software and dental equipment or performing dental procedures.

When brainstorming hard skills to include on your dental assistant resume, consult this list of top sought by employers in the field:

Best clinical hard skills for your dental assistant resume

• Dental X-ray photography
• Dental impression molding
• Sterilization techniques
• Dental instrument preparation
• Dental procedure assisting
• Coronal polishing
• Fluoride application
• Sealant application
• Infection control
• First aid and CPR
• Oral evacuation
• Digital radiography
• Photography
• Dental health education
• Restorative procedures
• Orthodontic procedures
• Periodontal dressings

Best administrative hard skills for your dental assistant resume

• Administrative Skills
• Patient management software
• Dental coding and billing
• Supply inventory management
• HIPAA compliance
• Dental office management

Soft  skills - in a nutshell

Soft skills  are intrinsic, personal skills demonstrating the kind of employee you'll be. In a dental office, these skills enable you to provide excellent patient care and satisfaction. For example, in the dental field, compassion, empathy, and active listening are valued regardless of the office in which you work.

These are some of the top soft skills employers look for in dental assistant applicants:

Best soft skills for your dental assistant resume

• Communication skills
• Interpersonal skills
• Attention to detail
• Time management
• Stress management
• Critical thinking
• Problem-solving
• Adaptability
• Listening skills
• Organizational skills
• Professionalism
• Trustworthiness
• Tact and diplomacy
• Customer service skills

Follow these steps to write your dental assistant skills sections:

• Format your skills section as a simple list without elaboration or examples.
• Differentiate between hard and soft skills by listing them in separate subsections.
• Consider organizing your hard skills further by adding subheadings for clinical skills and administrative skills.
• Target your skills section using keyword skills from the job description.
• Write these keyword skills precisely as they appear in the job description to enhance ATS analysis.
• Never lie about or exaggerate your skills on your resume.
• Ensure consistency between your experience and skills sections by listing the skills mentioned in the experience section in the skills section and vice versa.

In general, employers are willing to offer training in hard skills. However, the intrinsic nature of soft skills makes them difficult to teach. Therefore, it's essential to tailor your resume's hard skills for each application and to include as many keyword soft skills as possible.

How to list your certifications and education on your resume

While certification is not always required, many employers prefer applicants with a general dental assisting certification. Beyond that, there are numerous expanded dental functions certifications (EDFC) available to enable Certified Dental Assistants (CDAs) to perform specialized tasks such as performing X-rays.

Your resume's education and certifications sections should reinforce your skills sections as evidence supporting your stated skills.

To write your dental assistant certification section and education section, follow these steps:

• Create separate sections titled “Education” and  “Certifications” to allow ATS to parse information from your resume accurately.
• List all degrees and certifications in reverse chronological order, putting your most recent and relevant at the top.

Education Specific  best practices :

• For each degree, include the name of the university, its’ location, the dates you attended, and the title of your degree.
• Continuing education courses , like those required for a CDA, should be listed in the education section.
• Including your GPA is optional unless the job description specifies a minimum GPA requirement.
• You can include brief statements about relevant exceptional  coursework achievements  in the example description.
• Only include your major and minor  if relevant to the desired position or if it provides relevant information about your background. For example, a minor in Spanish may be appropriate. However, a minor in Dance probably isn’t.

Here’s an example of how an excellent education example:

• • Earned perfect scores in all 10 required courses.
• • Completed a supervised clinical externship, gaining practical experience in assisting with various dental procedures and leading to my first dental assistant employment.

Best practices for listing examples on your resume’s certification section :

• Include the name of the certification, the certifying institution, and the year obtained.
• When appropriate, consider listing certifications under the subheadings “Clinical Certifications” and “Administrative Certifications” for clarity.
• Limit certifications to current, unexpired credentials. For example, if you were certified in CPR four years ago and never renewed, you shouldn't list this since CPR certification is only valid for two years.
• If a certification requires renewal to remain valid, include the date first acquired as well as the most recent renewal date or a "valid through" date. For certifications you have held long-term, this demonstrates soft skills such as organization and responsibility.
• Limit your certifications to only those specifically named or directly related to the required skills mentioned in the job description.

Here’s an example of how a certification item requiring renewal should look on your dental assistant resume:

If you're considering adding a dental assistant certification to your resume, check out one of these highly sought-after by employers.

Best certifications for your dental assistant resume

• Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) by the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB)
• Registered Dental Assistant with Expanded Functions (RDAEF) by Various State Dental Boards (specific websites vary by state)
• Certified Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Assistant (COMSA) by the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB)
• Certified Restorative Functions Dental Assistant (CRFDA) by the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB)
• Certified Dental Practice Management Administrator (CDPMA) by the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB)

It's essential to be selective when writing your dental assistant resume's education and certifications sections.

Some employers may sift through long lists. However, others will only take a cursory look before determining whether or not your background will suit their needs. Therefore, limiting your qualifications to highlight those that best demonstrate your ability to succeed is critical.

How to write your dental assistant resume summary or objective

A summary or objective section, sometimes called “ Resume Profiles ” or “ Personal Statements ,” allows you to briefly contextualize how the data and facts on your resume correspond to your career progression and goals.

These sections demonstrate your suitability for the position, which may not be evident, particularly if you don’t have prior experience as a dental assistant.

Regardless of which personal statement you select, it should clarify how your experiences and qualifications make you a suitable candidate for an available job.

Follow these best practices when writing either a summary or an objective:

• Customize the statement to match the specific job you're applying for, emphasizing relevant skills and experiences.
• Start sentences with action verbs to make your summary dynamic and impactful.
• Be brief. A summary should only be 3-5 sentences.

The difference between a summary and an objective is the focus on either your past experiences or future career goals.

A resume summary  focuses on your past work experience and how it aligns with an available job. On the other hand, a resume objective  focuses on your future career goals to illustrate how they correspond with the position.

A summary is preferable for dental assistants with extensive experience well aligned to the available job, for example, in the same dental specialty. It highlights how your past success indicates your potential to succeed in that particular role.

To write a summary for your dental assistant resume , follow these best practices:  

• Highlight your most relevant skills or experiences that directly overlap with the job description.
• Briefly mention your years of experience to provide context for your level of expertise.
• Write an impactful summary using keywords  directly from the job description, highlighting your well-aligned keyword experiences and skills.
• Use details such as naming specific software, dental equipment, procedures, and certifications to reinforce the relevance of your experiences.  
• Convey your enthusiasm for the opportunity to continue providing high-quality patient care in the dental field in this position.

Check out how the following summary is improved by including specific details to reinforce skills.

This applicant overlooks several opportunities to include specific details, such as examples of procedures they are proficient in, contributions they’ve made, and their specific certification to incorporate keywords and ensure their qualifications are evident to the employer.

This applicant includes specific examples of tasks they are proficient in, procedures they've performed, and their impact on patient satisfaction. They also named the professional organization where they completed their continuing education. These details lend authority to their stated skills and qualifications and enhance ATS analysis by including keywords from the job description.

An objective section is a better option for dental assistants with limited experience or who are applying for their first job. It allows you to focus on how you plan to use your background to achieve career goals while contributing to the success of the office.

To write your dental assistant resume objective, follow these best practices:

• Describe the type of position you are seeking.
• Share relevant or transferable skills   that will help you succeed in the position using keywords  directly from the job description .
• Clearly state your career goals and enthusiasm to work towards them in the role.
• Highlight valuable contributions you can make while learning and gaining experience.
• Avoid generic phrases. Instead, focus on specific skills and goals that set you apart.

Rephrasing specifics from the “Qualifications” or “Ideal Candidate” sections of a job description is a great way to guarantee you mention the skills and qualifications most valued by the employer.

Additional sections for a dental assistant resume

In addition to the top-resume sections , consider including one or more of these optional resume sections  to highlight specific qualifications or accomplishments that will help you stand out among the other dental assistant applicants.

• Languages: Excellent patient communication is a cornerstone of patient care. Therefore, being multilingual is a valuable asset in patient-centric environments. Including a language section  is an effective way to set yourself apart from other applicants.
• Achievements and Awards: If you’ve received recognition for your work in the past, consider including an awards and achievements section  as evidence to support your stated soft skills. In addition to individual awards, you can include awards your office received, such as being voted the top healthcare facility in your community.
• Professional Associations: A professional Associations section highlights your dedication to ongoing improvement and staying current in dentistry. If you’d like to include a professional association membership to your resume, consider joining one of the leading professional associations for dental assistants below.

Professional associations for dental assistants

These prominent professional associations for dental assistants provide resources, support, and opportunities for networking and continuing education:

• American Dental Assistants Association ( ADAA )
• American Association of Dental Office Management ( AADOM )
• National Dental Assistants Association ( NDAA )
• Academy of Chairside Assisting ( ACA )
• American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry ( AAPD )

Individualizing your resume with tailored sections ensures it reflects all your top qualifications and stands out among other applicants. Should you include sections other than those above, be sure they use catchy, ATS-friendly headings .

How to write a specialization section

If you have extensive experience or certifications in a particular dental specialty directly corresponding to an available job, consider including a specialization section to highlight these qualifications.

Your dental assistant specialization section should include the following:

• The title of your dental assistant specialization
• Relevant training or certifications
• Specialty-specific billing and coding experience
• Technical skills  related to using software and equipment
• Skills and expertise in performing specialized dental procedures
• Relevant soft skills, for instance, patience and communication, are vital when working with children in a pediatric dental office.

Here’s an example of how your specialization section should appear on your resume:

Only include a specialization section that demonstrates extensive knowledge, skills, and qualifications if applicable to the available dental assistant position. For instance, the example above would be relevant to a family or pediatric dental office. However, it would not likely be relevant enough to include as a separate section for work in a prosthodontic office.  In this case, these skills may be mentioned in the other resume sections , such as the experience section, to demonstrate your capacity to learn specialized skills.

Key takeaways

Selecting among the multitude of skills and qualifications required for dental assisting is one of the and most challenging aspects when writing a resume.

To ensure your dental assistant resume accurately reflects your most valuable, unique skills, experiences, and qualifications, review these key takeaways:

• Targeted resumes include only examples relevant to the available position as found in the job description.
• ATS-optimized formatting helps ensure your dental assistant resume reaches employers.
• Provide quantifiable evidence of achievements in previous dental offices to demonstrate your impact in past jobs.
• Include clinical and administrative hard skills as well as transferable soft skills, using precise wording for enhanced ATS optimization.
• List relevant education and certifications demonstrating your dentistry knowledge and qualifications.
• Give context to the information on your resume by including either a summary or an objective section, depending on your experience level in similar dental assistant positions.
• Use additional sections to showcase credentials that don't fit within other resume sections.
• Include a specialization section when your past dental assistant employment is in a similar environment to the available position to highlight your expertise.

Dental Assistant resume examples

Explore additional dental assistant resume samples and guides and see what works for your level of experience or role.

Looking to build your own Dental Assistant resume?

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7 Dental Assistant Resume Examples for Your 2024 Job Search

Dental assistants are skilled at providing efficient support and ensuring a smooth patient experience. Similarly, your resume should function like a dental assistant, adeptly supporting your qualifications and ensuring a seamless presentation of your skills. In this guide, we'll examine 7 dental assistant resume examples that effectively showcase the qualities needed to excel in this vital role.

Resume Examples

Resume guidance.

• High Level Resume Tips
• Must-Have Information
• Why Resume Headlines & Titles are Important
• Writing an Exceptional Resume Summary
• How to Impress with Your Work Experience
• Top Skills & Keywords
• Go Above & Beyond with a Cover Letter
• Resume FAQs
• Related Resumes

Common Responsibilities Listed on Dental Assistant Resumes:

• Prepare treatment rooms for patient procedures, including sterilizing equipment and instruments
• Assist the dentist during procedures by passing instruments, suctioning, and providing other support as needed
• Take and develop dental x-rays as directed by the dentist
• Educate patients on proper oral hygiene techniques and provide post-operative care instructions
• Schedule patient appointments and maintain accurate patient records
• Manage inventory of dental supplies and order new supplies as needed
• Perform basic laboratory procedures, such as pouring and trimming models and fabricating temporary crowns
• Clean and maintain dental equipment and instruments
• Assist with administrative tasks, such as answering phones and filing patient paperwork
• Provide support to other dental staff members as needed
• Ensure compliance with infection control protocols and OSHA regulations
• Assist with patient billing and insurance claims processing.

You can use the examples above as a starting point to help you brainstorm tasks, accomplishments for your work experience section.

Dental Assistant Resume Example:

• Implemented a patient education program that increased patient compliance with oral hygiene instructions by 25%.
• Streamlined the inventory management system, reducing supply waste by 15% and saving the practice $5,000 annually.
• Developed and implemented a patient recall system, resulting in a 20% increase in patient retention and revenue.
• Managed the implementation of a new electronic health record system, resulting in a 30% reduction in administrative tasks and a 20% increase in patient satisfaction.
• Collaborated with the dentist to develop and implement a treatment plan for a patient with severe dental anxiety, resulting in successful completion of treatment and a positive patient experience.
• Developed and led a training program for new dental assistants, resulting in a 50% reduction in onboarding time and improved team performance.
• Developed and implemented infection control protocols that exceeded OSHA standards, resulting in zero incidents of infection transmission in the practice.
• Managed the ordering and inventory of dental supplies, resulting in a 10% reduction in supply costs and improved supply availability for patient care.
• Collaborated with the dentist to develop and implement a treatment plan for a patient with complex dental needs, resulting in successful completion of treatment and improved patient oral health.
• Patient Education and Care
• Inventory Management
• Patient Retention Strategies
• Electronic Health Record (EHR) Management
• Dental Treatment Planning
• Staff Training and Development
• Infection Control Protocols
• Supply Chain Management
• Collaborative Patient Care
• Dental Anxiety Management
• Compliance with Regulatory Standards
• Dental Procedure Assistance
• Interpersonal and Communication Skills
• Dental Equipment Maintenance
• Organizational Skills
• Problem-solving Skills
• Detail-oriented Approach
• Multitasking Skills
• Time Management
• Customer Service Skills

Entry Level Dental Assistant Resume Example:

• Provided exceptional patient care by taking and recording medical and dental histories and vital signs of patients, resulting in a 95% satisfaction rate among patients.
• Assisted the dentist during a variety of treatment procedures, ensuring a smooth and efficient patient experience and reducing patient wait times by 20%.
• Maintained a clean and safe working environment by complying with procedures, rules, and regulations, resulting in zero safety incidents and a 100% compliance rate.
• Managed inventory levels by anticipating needed supplies and placing orders for supplies, resulting in a 15% reduction in supply costs and ensuring that all necessary supplies were always available.
• Assisted in the management of medical and dental emergencies, providing quick and effective care to patients and reducing emergency response times by 30%.
• Documented dental care services by charting in patient records, ensuring accurate and up-to-date patient information and improving patient outcomes by 25%.
• Successfully prepared treatment rooms for patients by following prescribed procedures and protocols, resulting in a 100% compliance rate and ensuring that all patients received the highest quality care.
• Sterilized and disinfected instruments and equipment, maintaining a clean and safe working environment and reducing the risk of infection by 50%.
• Provided patients with instructions for oral care following all dental treatment procedures, resulting in a 90% compliance rate and improving patient outcomes by 20%.
• Patient care and communication
• Dental procedure assistance
• Medical and dental history documentation
• Vital signs monitoring
• Inventory management
• Emergency response and management
• Treatment room preparation
• Instrument sterilization and disinfection
• Oral care instruction
• Compliance with safety procedures and regulations
• Time management and efficiency
• Team collaboration and support
• Dental charting and record-keeping
• Basic computer skills and dental software proficiency

Registered Dental Assistant Resume Example:

• Managed the sterilization process for all instruments and equipment, ensuring compliance with OSHA regulations and reducing the risk of infection for patients by 30%.
• Assisted the dentist during complex procedures, including root canals and extractions, resulting in a 25% reduction in procedure time and an increase in patient satisfaction scores by 15%.
• Implemented a patient education program, providing personalized oral care instructions and increasing patient compliance with postoperative care by 40%.
• Managed the office's inventory of dental supplies and materials, reducing waste by 20% and saving the practice $10,000 annually.
• Developed and implemented a scheduling system that reduced patient wait times by 50% and increased the number of patients seen per day by 25%.
• Provided training and mentorship to new dental assistants, resulting in a 50% reduction in onboarding time and an increase in team satisfaction scores by 20%.
• Performed dental diagnostic x-rays, identifying and addressing potential issues early and reducing the need for more invasive procedures by 30%.
• Managed medical and dental emergencies, including administering topical anesthetics and medications, resulting in a 100% success rate in resolving emergencies without the need for hospitalization.
• Developed and implemented a system for tracking patient medical and dental histories, improving patient care and reducing the risk of medical errors by 25%.
• Sterilization and infection control
• Patient education and communication
• Scheduling and time management
• Team training and mentorship
• Dental diagnostic x-rays
• Emergency management
• Topical anesthetics and medication administration
• Patient medical and dental history tracking
• Compliance with OSHA regulations
• Dental equipment maintenance
• Postoperative care management
• Interpersonal skills

Lead Dental Assistant Resume Example:

• Developed and implemented a patient education program, resulting in a 25% increase in patient compliance with oral hygiene recommendations.
• Managed inventory of dental supplies and equipment, reducing waste by 15% and saving the practice $10,000 annually.
• Trained and mentored new dental assistants, resulting in a 20% improvement in team productivity and a 10% decrease in errors.
• Collaborated with dentists to implement new treatment procedures, resulting in a 30% increase in patient satisfaction scores.
• Managed patient scheduling and billing, reducing errors by 20% and improving patient retention by 15%.
• Implemented new sterilization and disinfection protocols, resulting in a 40% decrease in infection rates and improved patient safety.
• Developed and implemented a patient recall system, resulting in a 50% increase in patient retention and a 20% increase in revenue.
• Managed the ordering and stocking of dental supplies, reducing inventory costs by 10% and ensuring adequate supplies for all procedures.
• Trained and coached team members on best practices for patient care and office management, resulting in a 15% improvement in patient satisfaction scores and a 10% increase in team productivity.
• Dental supply and equipment management
• Team training and mentoring
• Collaboration with dental professionals
• Patient scheduling and billing
• Sterilization and disinfection protocols
• Patient recall systems
• Dental procedure knowledge
• Office management and organization
• Time management
• Conflict resolution
• Attention to detail
• Dental software proficiency
• X-ray and imaging skills

Pediatric Dental Assistant Resume Example:

• Developed and implemented a comprehensive patient education program, resulting in a 25% increase in patient compliance with oral hygiene recommendations.
• Managed inventory and supply ordering, reducing costs by 10% while ensuring adequate supplies for all procedures.
• Collaborated with dentists and other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive care for patients with special needs, resulting in improved patient outcomes and satisfaction.
• Implemented a new patient scheduling system, reducing wait times by 15% and increasing patient satisfaction scores by 20%.
• Developed and delivered training programs for new dental assistants, resulting in a 30% reduction in onboarding time and improved team performance.
• Managed patient records and billing processes, ensuring compliance with HIPAA regulations and reducing billing errors by 25%.
• Developed and implemented a system for tracking patient outcomes and satisfaction, resulting in a 15% improvement in patient satisfaction scores and better patient outcomes.
• Managed the sterilization and maintenance of dental equipment, ensuring compliance with OSHA regulations and reducing equipment downtime by 20%.
• Collaborated with dentists and other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive care for patients with complex medical histories, resulting in improved patient outcomes and satisfaction.
• Inventory and supply management
• Collaboration with healthcare professionals
• Patient scheduling and coordination
• Training and onboarding new staff
• Patient records and billing management
• HIPAA compliance
• Dental equipment sterilization and maintenance
• OSHA regulations compliance
• Patient outcome tracking and improvement
• Special needs patient care
• Handling complex medical histories

Beginner Dental Assistant Resume Example:

• Provided exceptional patient care, resulting in a 95% satisfaction rate from patients and their families.
• Managed inventory and supplies, reducing waste by 20% and saving the practice $5,000 annually.
• Assisted in the implementation of new sterilization protocols, ensuring compliance with OSHA and CDC guidelines.
• Contributed to the development of a patient education program, resulting in a 30% increase in patient understanding of oral health and treatment options.
• Managed patient scheduling and appointment confirmations, reducing no-shows by 15% and increasing patient retention.
• Provided support in the preparation of dental materials, resulting in a 25% reduction in material waste and cost savings for the practice.
• Performed dental radiographs and assisted in restorative procedures, contributing to a 20% increase in patient treatment completion rates.
• Managed patient records and maintained accurate documentation, ensuring compliance with HIPAA regulations.
• Assisted in the training and onboarding of new team members, resulting in a 10% increase in team productivity and efficiency.
• Dental radiographs and imaging
• Restorative procedure assistance
• Patient education and engagement
• Scheduling and appointment management
• Dental material preparation
• Record keeping and documentation
• Team training and onboarding
• Time management and organization
• Basic computer and software skills
• Dental equipment maintenance and troubleshooting
• Professionalism and ethical conduct

Orthodontic Dental Assistant Resume Example:

• Implemented a patient education program that resulted in a 25% increase in patient compliance with oral hygiene instructions and a 15% reduction in treatment time.
• Developed and implemented a system for tracking and ordering dental supplies, resulting in a 20% reduction in waste and a 10% decrease in supply costs.
• Assisted in the development and implementation of a new patient scheduling system, resulting in a 30% reduction in patient wait times and a 20% increase in patient satisfaction scores.
• Managed the orthodontic laboratory, ensuring timely delivery of appliances and reducing turnaround time by 20%.
• Implemented a system for tracking patient progress and treatment plans, resulting in a 15% increase in treatment plan adherence and a 10% reduction in treatment time.
• Developed and implemented a system for tracking and managing patient records, resulting in a 25% reduction in errors and a 15% increase in accuracy.
• Developed and implemented a system for managing patient appointments, resulting in a 20% reduction in missed appointments and a 10% increase in patient satisfaction scores.
• Assisted in the development and implementation of a new patient intake process, resulting in a 30% reduction in patient wait times and a 20% increase in patient satisfaction scores.
• Managed the inventory of orthodontic appliances, ensuring timely delivery and reducing inventory costs by 15%.
• Dental supply management
• Patient scheduling and appointment management
• Orthodontic laboratory management
• Treatment plan tracking and adherence
• Patient record management
• Inventory management and cost reduction
• Patient intake process improvement
• Oral hygiene instruction
• Orthodontic appliance knowledge
• Team collaboration and coordination
• Attention to detail and accuracy
• Problem-solving and critical thinking
• Adaptability to new technologies and systems

High Level Resume Tips for Dental Assistants:

Must-have information for a dental assistant resume:.

Here are the essential sections that should exist in an Dental Assistant resume:

• Contact Information
• Resume Headline
• Resume Summary or Objective
• Work Experience & Achievements
• Skills & Competencies

Additionally, if you're eager to make an impression and gain an edge over other Dental Assistant candidates, you may want to consider adding in these sections:

• Certifications/Training

Let's start with resume headlines.

Why Resume Headlines & Titles are Important for Dental Assistants:

Dental assistant resume headline examples:, strong headlines.

• Experienced Dental Assistant with a passion for patient care and a proven track record of assisting in complex procedures
• Detail-oriented Dental Assistant with expertise in digital radiography and a commitment to maintaining a clean and safe environment for patients
• Certified Dental Assistant with a focus on providing exceptional customer service and a talent for managing patient records and scheduling appointments

Why these are strong: These resume headlines are strong for Dental Assistants as they highlight key skills and experiences that are relevant to the role. The first headline emphasizes the candidate's experience and passion for patient care, as well as their ability to assist in complex procedures. The second headline showcases the candidate's attention to detail and expertise in digital radiography, which are important skills for Dental Assistants. Finally, the third headline emphasizes the candidate's certification, focus on customer service, and talent for managing patient records and scheduling appointments, which are all important qualities that hiring managers look for in Dental Assistants.

Weak Headlines

• Skilled Dental Assistant with Experience in Patient Care
• Detail-Oriented Dental Assistant with Strong Communication Skills
• Dental Assistant with Knowledge of Dental Procedures and Equipment

Why these are weak:

• These resume headlines need improvement for Dental Assistants as they lack specificity and don't highlight any unique skills or accomplishments that the candidates bring to the table. The first headline mentions experience in patient care, but doesn't provide any context or results, such as patient satisfaction rates or successful treatment outcomes. The second headline mentions strong communication skills, but doesn't showcase any examples of how the candidate has effectively communicated with patients or colleagues. The third headline mentions knowledge of dental procedures and equipment, but doesn't provide any certifications or training that could strengthen the candidate's profile.

Writing an Exceptional Dental Assistant Resume Summary:

Resume summaries are crucial for Dental Assistants as they provide a brief yet impactful way to showcase their skills, experience, and unique value proposition. A well-crafted summary can immediately capture the attention of hiring managers, setting the tone for the rest of the resume and positioning the candidate as an ideal fit for the role.

For Dental Assistants specifically, an effective resume summary is one that highlights their ability to provide exceptional patient care, work collaboratively with dental professionals, and ensure smooth operations in the dental office.

Key points that Dental Assistants should convey in a resume summary include:

Relevant Experience: Clearly mention the number of years of experience you have in dental assisting, highlighting any notable achievements or career highlights. If you have experience with different types of dental procedures or specialties that are particularly relevant to the job, mention that too.

Technical and Domain Expertise: Showcase your knowledge of dental assisting procedures, equipment, and materials. Mention any certifications or licenses you hold, such as CPR or X-ray certification.

Collaboration and Teamwork: In any dental office, collaboration and teamwork are essential. Emphasize your ability to work closely with dentists, hygienists, and other dental professionals to provide exceptional patient care.

Patient-Centric Mindset: Highlight your ability to put patients at ease, provide compassionate care, and ensure their comfort throughout their dental visit.

Organizational and Administrative Skills: Show that you can manage patient records, schedule appointments, and ensure smooth operations in the dental office.

To create a compelling resume summary, use your best judgment to choose the right combination of these key points that align closest with the individual role you’re applying for. Remember, your resume summary will be one of the first things that a potential employer will see about you and your dental assisting career.

Dental Assistant Resume Summary Examples:

Strong summaries.

• Detail-oriented Dental Assistant with 5 years of experience in providing exceptional patient care and assisting with a wide range of dental procedures. Proficient in taking digital x-rays, sterilizing instruments, and managing patient records. Dedicated to creating a comfortable and welcoming environment for patients, resulting in a 95% patient satisfaction rate.
• Certified Dental Assistant with expertise in orthodontic procedures and a passion for improving patients' oral health. Skilled in taking impressions, fitting braces, and providing patient education on proper oral hygiene. Collaborates effectively with dentists and other healthcare professionals to deliver comprehensive care. Recognized for exceptional patient communication skills and ability to put patients at ease.
• Experienced Dental Assistant with a focus on providing high-quality care to pediatric patients. Proficient in managing patient anxiety and creating a positive experience for children during dental procedures. Skilled in administering nitrous oxide and providing patient education on proper oral hygiene. Recognized for ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment and maintain a high level of professionalism.

Why these are strong:

• These resume summaries are strong for Dental Assistants as they highlight the candidates' key skills, experience, and dedication to patient care. The first summary emphasizes the candidate's attention to detail and patient satisfaction rate, making them a valuable asset to any dental practice. The second summary showcases the candidate's expertise in orthodontic procedures and their ability to collaborate effectively with other healthcare professionals. Lastly, the third summary demonstrates the candidate's focus on pediatric patients and their ability to manage patient anxiety, making them highly appealing to potential employers in pediatric dentistry.

Weak Summaries

• Dental Assistant with experience in assisting dentists with patient care, seeking a new opportunity to utilize my skills and knowledge in a dental office setting.
• Experienced Dental Assistant with knowledge of dental procedures and equipment, seeking a position in a dental practice to further develop my skills and contribute to patient care.
• Dental Assistant with a passion for helping patients and a commitment to providing quality care, seeking a position in a dental office to support the dental team and ensure patient satisfaction.
• These resume summaries need improvement for Dental Assistants as they are too general and do not provide any specific details about the candidate's experience or accomplishments. The summaries do not showcase the candidate's unique value or skills, and do not provide any quantifiable results or details on the candidate's successes in patient care or supporting the dental team.

Resume Objective Examples for Dental Assistants:

Strong objectives.

• Seeking an entry-level Dental Assistant position to utilize my strong communication skills and passion for patient care to provide exceptional service and support to the dental team and patients.
• Recent graduate of an accredited Dental Assistant program with hands-on experience in dental procedures and patient care, seeking a Dental Assistant position to apply my knowledge and skills in a fast-paced dental office.
• Detail-oriented and organized Dental Assistant with experience in managing patient records and scheduling appointments, seeking a position in a dental practice where I can contribute to the efficient operation of the office and provide excellent patient care.
• These resume objectives are strong for up and coming Dental Assistants because they showcase the candidates' passion for patient care, education, and relevant skills, while also highlighting their eagerness to learn and contribute to the success of the dental practice. The first objective emphasizes the candidate's communication skills and dedication to patient care, which are important attributes for a Dental Assistant. The second objective showcases the candidate's education and hands-on experience in dental procedures and patient care, demonstrating a strong foundation for success in the role. Lastly, the third objective highlights the candidate's experience in managing patient records and scheduling appointments, making them a promising fit for a Dental Assistant position where they can further develop their skills and contribute to the efficient operation of the dental practice.

Weak Objectives

• Seeking a Dental Assistant position where I can utilize my skills and gain experience in the field.
• Entry-level Dental Assistant looking for a job in a dental office to learn more about the industry.
• Recent graduate with a passion for dentistry seeking a Dental Assistant role to gain hands-on experience.
• These resume objectives need improvement because they lack specificity and fail to highlight the candidate's unique skills or qualifications. The first objective is too generic and doesn't provide any information about the candidate's background or relevant experience. The second objective is too vague and doesn't mention any specific skills or education that the candidate possesses. The third objective, although it mentions a passion for dentistry, doesn't elaborate on the candidate's expertise or any particular area of dental assisting they are interested in, which would make their profile more appealing to potential employers.

Generate Your Resume Summary with AI

Speed up your resume creation process with the ai resume builder . generate tailored resume summaries in seconds., how to impress with your dental assistant work experience:, best practices for your work experience section:.

• Emphasize your experience with dental procedures and terminology, including knowledge of dental instruments and equipment.
• Highlight your ability to work closely with dentists and other dental professionals to provide high-quality patient care.
• Showcase your organizational skills, including scheduling appointments, managing patient records, and maintaining a clean and safe dental environment.
• Demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively with patients, including explaining procedures and providing post-treatment instructions.
• Mention any experience with dental software and technology, such as electronic health records and digital imaging systems.
• Highlight any continuing education or certifications related to dental assisting, such as CPR certification or expanded functions training.
• Use action verbs to describe your responsibilities and accomplishments, such as "assisted with dental procedures" or "managed inventory of dental supplies."
• Quantify your achievements where possible, such as "assisted with over 100 dental procedures per month" or "maintained a 95% patient satisfaction rate."

Example Work Experiences for Dental Assistants:

Strong experiences.

Assisted dentist in all aspects of patient care, including taking and developing X-rays, preparing instruments and materials, and providing chairside support during procedures.

Educated patients on proper oral hygiene techniques and post-operative care instructions, resulting in a 25% decrease in patient complications and a 15% increase in patient satisfaction scores.

Maintained accurate patient records and appointment schedules, ensuring timely and efficient patient care and reducing wait times by 20%.

Sterilized and maintained dental instruments and equipment, adhering to strict infection control protocols and ensuring a safe and sanitary environment for patients and staff.

Managed inventory and ordering of dental supplies, reducing waste and saving the practice $5,000 annually.

Trained and supervised new dental assistants, resulting in a 50% decrease in training time and improved team morale.

• These work experiences are strong because they demonstrate a range of technical skills and responsibilities that are essential to the role of a Dental Assistant. The use of specific metrics and outcomes also highlights the candidate's ability to improve patient care and operational efficiency. Additionally, the inclusion of leadership and training experience showcases the candidate's potential for growth and advancement within the field.

Weak Experiences

Assisted dentist in various procedures, including taking X-rays, preparing materials, and sterilizing instruments.

Managed patient records and scheduling, ensuring accuracy and confidentiality.

Maintained cleanliness and organization of dental office and equipment.

Answered phones and greeted patients, providing basic information and scheduling appointments.

Assisted with administrative tasks, such as filing and data entry.

Cleaned and stocked operatories, ensuring they were ready for patient use.

• These work experiences are weak because they lack specificity and quantifiable results. They provide generic descriptions of tasks performed without showcasing the impact of the individual's work or the benefits brought to the company. To improve these bullet points, the candidate should focus on incorporating metrics to highlight their achievements, using more powerful action verbs, and providing clear context that demonstrates their leadership qualities and direct contributions to successful outcomes.

Top Skills & Keywords for Dental Assistant Resumes:

Top hard & soft skills for dental assistants, hard skills.

• Patient Care and Comfort
• Dental Radiography
• Infection Control and Sterilization
• Dental Charting and Record Keeping
• Dental Materials Knowledge
• Dental Anatomy and Terminology
• Dental Instrumentation and Tray Setup
• Dental Impressions and Models
• Dental Office Management Software
• CPR and Basic Life Support Certification
• Dental Health Education and Promotion

Soft Skills

• Attention to Detail
• Interpersonal Skills
• Communication Skills
• Problem Solving
• Critical Thinking
• Adaptability
• Multitasking
• Professionalism

Go Above & Beyond with a Dental Assistant Cover Letter

Dental assistant cover letter example: (based on resume).

As a Dental Assistant, you understand the importance of attention to detail and providing exceptional patient care. Similarly, pairing your resume with a well-crafted cover letter can set you apart from other applicants and significantly increase your chances of landing an interview. A cover letter is an extension of your resume, an opportunity to showcase your passion for the role and highlight your relevant experience. Contrary to common belief, crafting a compelling cover letter doesn't have to be a daunting task, and the benefits far outweigh the effort required.

Here are some compelling reasons for submitting a cover letter as a Dental Assistant:

• Personalize your application and showcase your genuine interest in the dental practice and the patients you will be serving
• Highlight your unique skills and experience that align with the specific job requirements, such as experience with dental software or knowledge of dental procedures
• Communicate your understanding of the dental practice's needs and how you plan to contribute to the team
• Share success stories and achievements that couldn't be accommodated in your resume, such as improving patient satisfaction or implementing new processes to increase efficiency
• Demonstrate your strong communication and interpersonal skills, which are essential for Dental Assistants
• Differentiate yourself from other applicants who might have opted not to submit a cover letter and show that you are willing to go the extra mile to secure the position.

In summary, a cover letter is a valuable tool for Dental Assistants to showcase their skills, experience, and passion for the role. It can help personalize their application and set them apart from other applicants, ultimately increasing their chances of landing an interview.

Resume FAQs for Dental Assistants:

How long should i make my dental assistant resume.

A Dental Assistant resume should ideally be one to two pages long. It should include all relevant information about your education, work experience, skills, and achievements. However, it is important to keep in mind that the length of your resume should not compromise its quality. It is better to have a concise and well-written resume than a lengthy one that is filled with irrelevant information. As a Dental Assistant, you should focus on highlighting your skills and experience in the dental field, including your knowledge of dental procedures, equipment, and patient care. Additionally, you should tailor your resume to the specific job you are applying for, highlighting the skills and experience that are most relevant to the position. Overall, a well-crafted and concise resume is key to standing out as a Dental Assistant candidate.

What is the best way to format a Dental Assistant resume?

The best way to format a Dental Assistant resume is to start with a clear and concise summary statement that highlights your skills and experience in the field. Use bullet points to list your relevant work experience, education, and certifications. Be sure to include any specialized skills or training you have received, such as experience with digital radiography or dental software programs. It is also important to include any volunteer work or community service related to the dental field. Use a professional font and keep the formatting consistent throughout the document. Finally, proofread your resume carefully to ensure that there are no spelling or grammatical errors. A well-formatted and error-free resume can help you stand out to potential employers and increase your chances of landing a job as a Dental Assistant.

Which Dental Assistant skills are most important to highlight in a resume?

When highlighting skills on a Dental Assistant resume, it is important to focus on both technical and soft skills. Technical skills may include knowledge of dental procedures, equipment, and materials, as well as proficiency in taking x-rays, sterilizing instruments, and assisting the dentist during procedures. Soft skills may include communication, teamwork, organization, and attention to detail. It is also important to tailor the skills highlighted on the resume to the specific job description and requirements. For example, if the job requires experience with a particular type of dental software, be sure to highlight that skill. Overall, a strong Dental Assistant resume should showcase a combination of technical and soft skills that demonstrate the candidate's ability to provide high-quality patient care and work effectively as part of a dental team.

How should you write a resume if you have no experience as a Dental Assistant?

If you have no experience as a Dental Assistant, you can still create a strong resume that highlights your skills and qualifications. Here are some tips to help you get started: 1. Focus on transferable skills: Even if you haven't worked as a Dental Assistant before, you may have skills and experience that are relevant to the job. For example, you may have experience working in customer service, healthcare, or administration. Highlight these skills on your resume and explain how they could be applied to a Dental Assistant role. 2. Emphasize your education: If you have completed any relevant coursework or training programs, make sure to include this information on your resume. This can show potential employers that you have a basic understanding of dental terminology, procedures, and equipment. 3. Include any relevant volunteer or internship experience: If you have volunteered or completed an internship in a dental office, make sure to include this on your resume. This can demonstrate your interest in the field and your willingness to learn. 4.

Compare Your Dental Assistant Resume to a Job Description:

• Identify opportunities to further tailor your resume to the Dental Assistant job
• Improve your keyword usage to align your experience and skills with the position
• Uncover and address potential gaps in your resume that may be important to the hiring manager

Related Resumes for Dental Assistants:

Dental assistant resume example, entry level dental assistant resume example, registered dental assistant resume example, lead dental assistant resume example, pediatric dental assistant resume example, beginner dental assistant resume example, orthodontic dental assistant resume example, more resume guidance:.

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How to create a steller dental assistant resume?

[ Click here to directly go to the complete dental assistant resume sample ]

"Be true to your teeth and they won't be false to you." -Soupy Sales

Likewise, be true to your entry level dental assistant resumes for dental assistants and they won't fail you in your job hunt.

You need to raise your chance of being noticed by the recruiters if you intend to get the shortlist for the targeted job.

You can refer to our complete dental assistant resume sample:

• Headed the Unit Preparation for receiving patients by taking care of the equipment required and cleanliness of the unit
• Served as an Infection Control Officer , developed infection control protocol & sterilized instruments & equipment
• Provided instrumentation and positioned instruments for dentist's access, suctioned and passed instruments
• Rendered assistance to the Senior Dentist in dental procedures of 20+ patients daily
• Supervised in providing proper care leading to the recovery of 10k+ patients till date
• Managed emergencies by deploying emergency control skills & utilizing crisis control procedures
• Monitored vital parameters and general condition of patient while conducting dental diagnosis
• Administered medication to the patients by maintaining patients records & reports along with drugs stock & inventory
• Provided 10+ patients with instructions for oral care following surgery or other dental treatment procedures
• Taught patients appropriate oral hygiene strategies to maintain oral health like tooth brushing , flossing, etc.
• Collected impressions of patients' teeth for study casts (models of teeth)
• Prepared treatment room for patient by following prescribed procedures and protocols
• Prepared patients for dental treatment by welcoming, comforting, seating, and draping patients
• Provided materials by selecting, mixing, and placing materials on instruments and in the patient's mouth
• Provided diagnostic information by exposing and developing radio-graphic studies
• Top 5 percentile of the class
• Languages : English, Spanish and French

This blog is designed to help you frame the perfect resume, so read on.

Here is a summary of our orthodontic assistant resume 2022 Guide:

• Always use your full name as the header of your dentist resume and strictly avoid writing "CV or Resume".
• Use the reverse chronological order to prioritize your most recent and relevant experience on your dental assistant resume.
• Stick to the use of one-liner points to avoid lengthy paragraphs by grouping similar points under unique subheadings.
• Frame a summary of your dental assistant experience resume only if you have work experience of 3 years and above else write a dental assistant objective for your zero or less than 3 years of experience.

It is not always an easy sail while trying to frame the right resume because you have to use the right words that can convince the recruiters that you are the most suitable applicant.

All your statements should be able to boost your chances of being shortlisted by the recruiters for the targeted job.

Here at Hiration, our experts can help you out by guiding you on how to curate the perfect dentist resume.

By the end of this dental assistant resume blog, you will be able to write a job-winning resume while simultaneously learning:

• What to write in your dentist resume and how to write it
• How to talk about your professional experience on your dental resume in the best manner
• How to write a professional summary of dental assistant resume?
• How to add personal experience in your dental assistant resume?
• How to write add your education information in your dental assistant resume?

You can directly go to our Online Resume Builder to write professional dental assistant resumes:

In this blog we have provided a complete dental assistant resume sample and we will also discuss the following points to help you create impactful resumes for dental assistants:

What is a Dental Assistant Resume & why do you need it?

[ Back to Table of Content ]

Your dental resume is the golden ticket to raise your chances of getting shortlisted by recruiters and a step towards your dream job.

Write a flawless resume that can be recognized by the recruiters and try to impress them with your skills.

One thing that you need to overcome is the ATS system. Most recruiters depend on the ATS (Applicant Tracking System) for their hiring process.

It is a tracking system through which the recruiters filter through resumes to pick the most suitable applicant.

If your resume ranks high in the ATS system, it means your dental assistant resume will have a higher chance of getting shortlisted.

You need to create a resume that is ATS-targeted by using the keywords used by the recruiter to describe the requirements of the targeted job.

A resume that is not ATS-targeted may end up never getting shortlisted by the recruiters.

Hence writing an ATS targeted resume is necessary and you can accomplish that with this guide.

To learn the tricks and trade of writing your resumes for dental assistants, read our 2022 Tips on dos and don'ts for resume writing with a professional approach.

Dental Assistant Salary

• BLS : $41,180 per year
• Payscale.com : $16.59 per hour
• Salary.com : $39,560 per year

How to write a Dental Assistant Resume?

Following the step by step process to frame, can have a huge impact on the quality of your dental resume.

Here are the three stages that you should follow while framing your resume for dental assistant:

• Step 1 : Master Dental Assistant Resume
• Step 2 : First Draft of Dental Assistant Resume
• Step 3 : Final Draft of Dental Assistant Resume

Carefully read these three steps that has been discussed below and try to follow them while writing your dentist resume.

Dental Assistant Master Resume

[ Back to Table of Content ] Compile all your details and pieces of information in a single place by creating a master resume.

This works as your folder and helps you in tracking any information that you may require not only the present time-line but also for any future updates.

Collecting scattered pieces of information can be stressful to work on and a total waste of time altogether.

But if you stack them together in a single place it would be much easier to find your data on important details.

It revolutionizes your dentist resume-writing experience and helps you to accomplish the goal of resume writing in any time-period as required by you.

Do not stress over the unclear information which does not seem sure for your present resume because it may be needed in your future updates.

First Draft of Dental Assistant Resume

In the first draft of your dental resume, you should frame these following sections in your resumes for dental assistants:

• Personal Information
• Profile Title
• Professional Experience
• Certifications (if any)
• Awards & Recognition (if any)
• Additional Information (if any)

Make sure to fill the above standard sections with the relevant points and frame optional sections whenever necessary.

Doing so can boost your chance of being recognized by recruiters who can give you the shortlist you require for the targeted job.

Final Draft of Dental Assistant Resume

You need to compose the following sections in your final draft:

Key skills section: After your professional experience has been filled, scan through it and pick out the most effective key skills you possess and align them in this section. This way, recruiters can easily identify your core skills.

Summary/objective section: This is the last section to be framed when writing your dental resume. A dental assistant resume objective or summary should be framed to give a brief and overall statement of your dentist resume.

You can also read our 2022 guide to writing a resume for a better understanding of how to write the perfect resume.

Dental Assistant Resume Sections

There are different sections in your dental resume. We have mentioned them below:

• Summary/Objective

Given below are the optional section that can be framed whenever required to enhance your dental assistant resume:

• Volunteering Experience (if any)

Make sure that every section you frame has been thoughtfully created to have an impact on the recruiters with your resume.

Read Hiration's 2022 Guide to sections in a resume for more details on how to effectively create your dental resume sections.

In the meanwhile, feel free to use our Online Resume Builder to compose a professional resumes for dental assistants from scratch without any hassle!

Dental Assistant Resume: Professional Experience

One of the most important sections in your dental resume is the professional experience section. This section can help you to elaborate on all your skills and experience to highlight your achievements.

Try not to miss out on any important details while framing this section.

Curate a flawless professional experience section in your dentist resume by following the points that have been listed below:

• STAR format
• Framing points
• Bucketing & Bolding

STAR Format

The STAR stands for the following points:

• Situation : It describes the backdrop and context of your contributions in any situation.
• Task : It describes the actual task that was assigned to you as a part of your role and responsibility.
• Action : It describes the strategy you turned into action that was used to execute the assigned task.
• Result : It describes the result or outcome of your action in any form of an achievement figure.

STAR format is the ideal format for curating the professional experience section of your dental assistant resume.

It creates the cause-effect relationship between your assigned task in any situation and the outcome of your actions which helps your dental resume stand out.

This can demonstrate your dental assistant resume skills by quantifying your achievements that show the extent of your expertise in your chosen domain.

Framing Points

Keep the recruiter interested in reading your dentist resume, by making it worth the read.

Let us look at the two dental assistant resume examples given below to understand the importance of framing points and how to go about it:

Dental Assistant Resume Example 1:

"Assisted the Senior Dentist in all the daily dental procedures of 10+ patients and administered proper care to every patient which lead to the recovery of 1k+ patients to date. Successfully deployed any emergency control skills and utilized the crisis control procedures. Monitored the vital parameters of all the patients while conducting dental diagnosis and also implemented dental interventions at times of need while working closely with the Senior Dentist."

Dental Assistant Resume Example 2:

Assisted the Senior Dentist in dental procedures of 10+ patients daily Administered proper care leading to the recovery of 1k+ patients till date Deployed emergency control skills and utilized crisis control procedures Monitored vital parameters of patients while conducting dental diagnosis Implemented dental interventions while working closely with the Senior Dentist

Framing Points: Analysis

Both the example are stating the same thing but example 2 is more specific unlike example 1 wherein your resume for dental assistant with no experience look bulky.

From the two examples, it is obvious that framing points (example 2) make your statements more readable for the recruiters.

Use bullet points to frame one-liners as it is easier to list out your roles & responsibilities which in turn makes your dental resume easy to read and comprehend.

Writing a bulky and lengthy paragraph in your dentist resume (example 1) may most likely make the recruiters uninterested in your dental assistant resume when you drag your points at a stretch and you end up using vague words unnecessarily.

Bolding & Bucketing

Bucketing & bolding are another important factor that should be used while composing your professional experience section in your dental resume.

Let us look at the below-given dental assistant resume examples to understand how bolding & bucketing is important in your dental assistant resume and how you can make use of it:

Assisted the Senior Dentist in dental procedures of 10+ patients daily Administered proper care leading to the recovery of 1k+ patients till date Managed the Unit Preparation for patients by taking care of the required equipment Served as a control officer by developing protocol & sterilized the instruments Provided patients with oral care instructions following surgery or procedures Demonstrated appropriate strategies to patience for the maintenance of oral hygiene

Patient Care Assisted the Senior Dentist in dental procedures of 10+ patients daily Administered proper care leading to the recovery of 1k+ patients till date Surgical Assistance & Unit Preparation Managed the Unit Preparation for patients by taking care of the required equipment Served as a control officer by developing protocol & sterilized the instruments Oral Care & Hygiene Practice Provided patients with oral care instructions following surgery or procedures Demonstrated appropriate strategies to patience for the maintenance of oral hygiene

Bolding & Bucketing: Analysis

Framing points (example 1) make your one-liners readable but bucketing and bolding (example 2) make your resume for dental assistant with no experience more organized.

Create unique subheadings (bucketing) and group all the similar points in your professional experience section.

Bolding all your figures of numbers and achievements helps the recruiter recognize your specific contributions towards an organization.

Thus, bucketing and bolding boost your chances of getting the attention of the recruiters which can help you in getting shortlisted for the target job.

You can refer to our dental assistant resume sample given below to understand how the professional experience section can be ideally framed.

If you have an existing resume, get it professionally reviewed by our in-house team of resume experts at Hiration.

To learn more about framing the perfect professional experience section, read Hiration's Blog on how to compose the work experience in your resume .

Dental Assistant Resume: Key Skills

Scan through your dentist resume and pick the keywords in the job description that you have applied for and place them in this section.

Do make sure that the keywords you use are justified in your one-liners and that you possess them.

Avoid writing unrelated skills to the target job as it is just a waste of time and space.

Most of the major organizations nowadays use the ATS for filtering resumes before shortlisting the most suitable applicant.

This is why you need to choose and write the correct skills in your dental assistant resume skills section.

Given below is a dental assistant resume examples for you to understand the ideal way to write dental assistant resume skills.

Dental Assistant Resume Summary

A dental assistant resume summary should be written only if you have 3 years and above of professional experience.

It is an overall statement of your dentist resume which can make the recruiters recognize your efficiency in just a short paragraph.

Read the following points to write a dental assistant resume summary:

• Start your summary by mentioning your years of experience while keeping in mind that the recruiter would spend roughly 6-7 seconds and you need to make it count.
• Write a summary that is on point with only 3-4 lines and avoid stretching your summary with unnecessary and irrelevant words.
• Give a brief explanation of your past work experience and make sure to pick the best highlights of your career to enhance the effectiveness of your dental resume summary.

Given below is a dental assistant resume sample of how an ideal summary for your dental assistant resume can be framed.

You can read Hiration's 2022 Resume Summary Guide. for a detailed guide on how to write the perfect dentist resume summary.

Dental Assistant Resume: Objective

You should write a dental assistant resume objective for your dental resume only if:

• You have no work experience.
• You have very limited work experience of less than 3 years.
• You are a fresh graduate writing an entry-level resume.

The goal of your dental assistant resume objective is to communicate your goals and prove to the recruiter that your skills matter, and that you will be am asset to the organization.

Read Hiration's 2022 Guide on Resume Objectives to learn the art of fashioning an impeccable dental resume objective.

Dental Assistant Resume: Header

The importance of the profile header is mostly ignored but you should know that it is an important feature in a resume that needs to be thoughtfully framed.

Hiration pro Tip : Avoid writing "CV or Resume". Instead, write your name as the header so that the recruiter knows that the dental assistant resume belongs to you.

Follow the below-given points to write your dental resume header the right way:

• Write your header using the largest fonts between 16-20 font sizes and make it stand out in your dental assistant resume.
• It should be framed at the top-most part of your dentist resume.
• In case you have a middle name, write only the initial of your middle name followed by a period.
• Example: Phoebe Aurora Buffay should be written as "Phoebe A. Buffay".

Given below is our dental assistant resume example of the header section for you to understand how an ideal header section can be ideally framed.

Read our 2022 Guide: Header on a Resume to get more details for writing this section.

You can always write your dental resume with the help of experts at Hiration's Online Resume Builder:

Dental Assistant Resume: Personal Information

The personal information section in your dental resume should ideally consist of the following details:

Contact number

• Current location

Give only your active and functional contact number through which the recruiter can get in touch with you.

The recruiters may want to conduct an interview over the phone or confirm any likely shortlist over the phone. Keep your phone lines open and free when you are expecting a shortlist from them.

Do not give out contact numbers of your previous address of residence or workplace as it is unnecessary and wastage of time.

The number you provide should be functional 24x7 and avoid missing out any calls from the recruiters for any possible shortlist.

Provide your country’s ISD code as a prefix before your phone number and a plus sign (+) before the ISD code.

Example : +1 25363 62749

One of the most convenient and official means of communication between you and the recruiter is the email.

Make sure that you have an email ID that has been professionally composed for official purpose by using your real name.

Example : [email protected] or [email protected]

Avoid giving out any fancy email IDs that can make you seem like a childish applicant who is not serious with one's career.

Example : [email protected] or [email protected]

Create an official resume with your real name in case you do not have one.

Always remember that your dental assistant resume is a source through which the recruiters can judge you and you need to maintain an official approach at all times.

Current Location

If you are looking for a job in your own country, mention the city and state of your residence in your resume. Mention the name of your city and country if you are looking for a job outside your country.

You need not mention your previous workplace address or your full home address because it is not required by the recruiters.

The main reason why you need to provide your current location is for the recruiters to know where you are willing to locate or re-locate for the targeted job.

Look at our below-given dental assistant resume sample of the personal information section to understand how this section is ideally framed.

Our 2022 Guide to writing personal information can help you have a better understanding of this section.

Dental Resume: Profile Title

Write your latest job title as your profile title to let the recruiter know if you are an experienced or an entry-level applicant.

Its main purpose is to state where you stand in your level of professional status.

Use the font size of 14-16 to write your profile title which should be the second-largest font size in your dentist resume.

By doing so, the recruiters can get an insight into your level of expertise in the field of your work.

Look at the below-given example of this section from our dental assistant resumes template to help you understand how an ideal profile title should be framed.

In the meanwhile, check out our Online Resume Builder to create your dental resume with expert guidance.

It comes with a pre-designed & pre-filled dental assistant resume template that you can customize to suit your professional needs & qualifications.

Dental Assistant Resume: Education

Your education section is important for your dental resume because the targeted job would require you to possess some specific level of educational qualification.

Provide a specific course of study that you have completed on dental courses to justify your efficiency as an eligible applicant who deserves the targeted job profile.

The education section of your resume should ideally consist of:

• Name of the school/university you have attended
• Name of the courses you have pursued
• The location of your school/university
• Enrollment and graduation dates in month & year format

Look at the given dental assistant resume sample of an ideal education section to frame this section with perfection.

You can also read our 2022 Guide on how to list education on resume .

Our Online Resume Builder is here to help you create your dental resume with expert guidance. The pre-filled dental assistant resume template that comes with it can be easily modified to suit your needs & preferences.

Dental Assistant Resume: Certifications

Certifications section is another important feature on your dentist resume that can help raise your chances of being shortlisted by recruiters.

Your certification section must include the following details:

• Name of the Certification Course
• Name of the Affiliating Institution
• Location of the Institute
• Dates of enrollment and completion of the course (month and year)

Arrange these points in the below format:

{Name of certification} | {Affiliating Institution} | {Location} | {Date} (month & year format)

Here is the 2022 Guide: How to List Certifications on a Resume , to help you get a better working knowledge of this section.

Go to our Hiration's online builder to create your dental resume with expert guidance:

Dental Assistant Resume: Additional Information

All your extra-curricular activities or information can be listed in this section as per the requirement of your targeted job profile.

Any additional languages that you can speak or write or any relevant hobbies that may help enhance your dentist resume can be framed here.

Your additional information can add value to your professional experience and educational qualification by highlighting your extracurricular knowledge or talent.

The dental assistant resume sample given below of an additional information section is the ideal way to perfectly frame this section.

Go to our Online Resume Builder to frame your flawless dental resume.

Resume Review & Free Dental Assistant Resume Templates

Get your dentist resume professionally reviewed by our resume experts at Hiration. The review will be done in compliance with the below-mentioned parameters:

• Compliance with industry norms
• Content Relevance
• Recruiter Friendliness
• Design Compatibility
• Conversion Scope
• ATS Compliance
• Global Compatibility
• Performance Assessment
• Resume Formatting (font, margins, the order of sections, etc.)

You also get 2 resume templates for free!

Resume Builder for Dental Assistant Resume

Our Online Resume Builder is professionally designed to help you curate a shortlist-worthy ATS-targeted senior accountant resume.

It comes with the below-mentioned resources:

• Option to save unlimited resumes
• 25+ resume designs
• Full rich-text editor
• Unlimited PDF downloads
• 100+ content templates
• 1-click design change
• A sharable link
• Live resume editor

By using Hiration Online Resume Builder , you will be able to write impeccable entry level dental assistant resumes for every job that you are targeting.

So if you aren't using our resume builder, wait no longer and get your hands on our resume builder now!

Key Takeaways

• Use the reverse chronological order to write your dental resume.
• Use only the keywords that have been justified and avoid phrases in your dental assistant resume skills sections.
• Use past tense for past profiles/projects and present continuous tense for present profiles and projects while starting your one-liners with power verbs.
• Use bucketing and bolding in your professional experience section to emphasize your efficiency and create cause-effect relations.
• Write a resume summary for your 3 years and above work experience, an dental assistant objective to describe your 0 to less than 3 years of work experience.

With this, we come to the end of this blog and you can write your perfect beginner dental assistant resume with the help of all the guides and examples.

Go to Hiration resume builder and create a professional resume for yourself. Additionally, reach out to us at [email protected] and you can get 24/7 professional assistance with all your job & career-related queries.

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Resume Worded   |  Career Strategy

Dental assistant resume summary examples.

Approved by hiring managers, here are proven resume summary examples you can use on your Dental Assistant resume. Learn what real hiring managers want to see on your resume, and when to use which.

• Dental Assistant
• Bilingual Dental Assistant
• Dental Assistant Specializing in Endodontics
• Dental Assistant with a Focus on Patient Education
• Dental Assistant with Administrative Expertise
• Dental Assistant with Prosthodontics Experience
• Entry-Level Dental Assistant
• Senior Dental Assistant
• Dental Assistant resume templates
• Similar summary examples

Dental Assistant Resume Summary Example

Showcase your niche expertise.

In the dental industry, specialization is key. By emphasizing your significant track record in pediatric dentistry, you not only make your expertise clear but also highlight your unique selling point. Remember, employers often look for specialists to fill specific gaps in their teams.

Quantify your contributions

Numbers speak volumes. Showing how you managed a 30% increase in patient bookings through better scheduling efficiency quantifies your ability to handle heavy workloads and bring tangible improvements to a practice.

Highlight your process improvements

By implementing a new patient management system, you demonstrate your initiative and problem-solving skills. More importantly, by linking this to a 15% reduction in administrative time, you underscore your impact on productivity and efficiency.

Bilingual Dental Assistant Resume Summary Example

Highlight your language skills.

Being bilingual can be a significant advantage in the healthcare field. It allows you to communicate effectively with a diverse patient base, potentially expanding the demographics that the clinic can cater to.

Demonstrate your impact on patient demographics

A 20% increase in clinic's patient demographics isn't just a number - it shows your value in attracting and retaining a wider patient base, which is crucial for any growing dental practice.

Mention your technical skills

Proficiency in using CAD/CAM technology isn't just a technical skill - it's a tool that can drastically improve restorative procedures. Mentioning it shows that you're up-to-date with the latest dental technologies, enhancing your desirability as a candidate.

Most resumes don't make it past the first round of screening. Our tool analyzes your resume and provides actionable insights to help you get noticed by hiring managers. Get an instant score and find out how to improve your chances of landing an interview.

Dental Assistant Specializing in Endodontics Resume Summary Example

Quantify your procedure experience.

Assisting in over 500 root canal procedures is a strong indicator of your experience and expertise in endodontics. It also hints at your ability to work under pressure, as root canal procedures can be complex and challenging.

Show your commitment to safety

Improving sterilization processes leading to a 30% decrease in cross-contamination risks shows your commitment to safety and hygiene standards. This is a critical area of concern in any dental practice and will be highly valued by potential employers.

Dental Assistant with a Focus on Patient Education Resume Summary Example

Demonstrating initiative and creativity.

By mentioning that you've developed oral hygiene pamphlets, you show that you're not just capable of following instructions, but are proactive and creative. This suggests that you're a self-starter who could bring fresh ideas to their practice.

Quantify Your Impact

It's always impressive to see quantifiable achievements. Pointing out that your pamphlets increased patient home care compliance by 20% provides concrete evidence of your effectiveness and the positive impact of your work.

Mentioning Specific Skills

Stating your experience with digital radiography equipment is a smart move. It not only shows your familiarity with essential tools, but it also signals to the ATS (Applicant Tracking System) that you have key skills. Many recruiters use ATS to filter out resumes lacking certain keywords, so including them can make sure your CV gets noticed.

Dental Assistant with Administrative Expertise Resume Summary Example

Showcase your impact on patient experience.

Reducing patient wait times by 25% is a direct indicator of your contribution to enhancing patient experiences. Employers know that improved patient experiences often lead to better reviews and more referrals, adding value to the practice.

Highlight your patient retention skills

An increased patient return rate is a testament to your interpersonal skills and ability to build strong patient relationships. This is particularly valuable in dental practices, where patient retention is crucial for business growth.

Dental Assistant with Prosthodontics Experience Resume Summary Example

Highlighting specific experience.

When you emphasize your specialization, like assisting in denture fittings, you demonstrate your hands-on experience in the field. This not only underscores your competency but it gives recruiters confidence in your expertise. It's wise to use quantifiable accomplishments as it turns vague claims into solid proof of your skills.

Showcasing Problem-Solving Skills

By stating that you've implemented a new inventory system, you're showcasing your ability to identify a problem, devise a solution, and see that solution through. Adding the fact that your initiative led to a reduction in supply costs further emphasizes the tangible impact of your problem-solving skills.

Entry-Level Dental Assistant Resume Summary Example

Highlight your specialty training.

Having hands-on experience in orthodontics, even as an intern, sets you apart from many entry-level dental assistants. It shows you're already gaining specialized skills and are keen to learn and grow in your field.

Show your tech savvy

Proficiency in dental imaging software is a highly sought-after skill in today's digital age. Linking this to a 15% improvement in image quality underscores your ability to leverage technology to improve patient care.

Senior Dental Assistant Resume Summary Example

Demonstrate your efficiency.

Reducing procedure set-up times by 20% is a testament to your meticulousness and efficiency. It emphasizes your ability to save valuable time in a high-pressure environment like a dental clinic.

Underline your patient satisfaction score

A 98% patient satisfaction score isn't just a number - it's a powerful testament to your people skills, competence, and ability to make patients feel comfortable. It's a metric that would matter to any employer in healthcare.

Emphasize your adaptability

Not everyone can work effectively in high-pressure environments. By highlighting this, you're showing potential employers your resilience, adaptability, and your ability to maintain high performance under stress.

Dental Assistant Resume Templates

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Dental Assistant Resume: Templates & Guide

As a dental assistant, you’re used to helping give patients fillings and crowns, but do you know how to plug in gaps in your own resume? Luckily, we’ve pre-poured some impressions of ideal resume templates that you can use to extract your next career opportunity!

Dental Assistant Resume Example MSWord® Download our free Dental Assistant Resume Template in Word and provide proper care to your most important patient – your career!

Dental assistants aid dentists during each operation, ensuring patients leave with a positive experience. If you wish to update your dental assistant resume to seek new employment opportunities, this article is for you.

This content will reveal vital details on what constitutes an effective dental assistant resume produced in interviews within a short time. Also, some examples and templates will be available to ensure complete comprehension of the lessons.

Before proceeding with tips on creating dental receptionist resumes, it’s worth noting that completing this task alone is tricky as you have to keep multiple factors in mind . These elements may include the font, style, size, page format, etc.

For this reason, we recommend easing the hassle with our online resume builder , a platform consisting of several templates and examples, ensuring you complete the task within a short time.

Visit ResumeGiants builder today and make building a dental assistant resume easy.

Let’s begin!

Dental Assistant Resume Sample

As previously mentioned, building a dental assistant resume from scratch is complex. Before providing you with the knowledge to make one, it’s best to look at an example for a better understanding.

Below is an example of a dental assistant resume :

[Charlotte Foster]

[Dental Assistant]

[1225 Crossing Meadows, Dakota, MN 54650 | 453-655-0996| [email protected]]

Dental Assistant with over 5 years of experience offering excellent clinical and customer relations skills gained within high-volume dental practices. Diplomatic, personable, and adept in managing sensitive situations, assisting in instructing patients, monitoring and ordering supplies. Efficient and precise in chairside dental assisting.

Dental Assistant

Marrow Dentalcare | Dakota, MN

2017 – Current

• Efficiently manage patient care, office and laboratory duties within a multispecialty dental group employing 12 dentists and 15 dental assistants.
• Administered sedatives to patients before the procedure and aided the dentist in providing proper care.
• Coordinated emergency referrals, ensuring they reached providers promptly
• Managed the dental facility inventory to provide patient care
• Tracked clinic repairs to equipment supported the upgrade to clinic space
• Gained experience in exposing and processing X-rays; fabricating crowns, pouring impressions, trimming models and preparing orthodontic equipment; and assisting with extractions, impactions, fillings, implants and local anesthesia.

Dymentum Health | Duluth, MN

2016 – 2017

• Worked chairside assisting family dentists with routine cleaning and specialized procedures, making patients feel as relaxed as possible and preparing them for treatment.
• Measured blood pressure and pulse before treatment began
• Provided and reviewed patients’ health histories before treatment commenced
• Provided patients with instructions on personal oral healthcare
• Constructed mouth guards, bleach trays, temporary crowns, and casting models.
• Prepared dental materials like cement when needed.

Hibbing Community College | Hibbing, MN

2015 – 2016

• Clinical Sedation
• Extractions
• Electronic Medical Records (EMR)
• Fabrication
• Dental instrument preparation
• Vital Signs

Certifications

• DANB Certified Dental Assistant (CDA)
• Intravenous Clinical Sedation
• Certification Nitrous Oxide
• Certification Basic Life Support Certification (ARC)

Hobbies and Interests

Knitting Reading Biking

This resume example is straightforward and letting the hiring manager understand what skills, experience, and qualifications you possess, let them judge whether you’re a valuable asset.

What’s the Best Format for a Dental Assistant Resume?

Besides the document’s content, the resume format immediately decides whether the hiring manager will continue reading your paper or toss it in the bin. For this reason, the first factor to consider is correct formatting , which this section will tackle.

First, format the document in reverse chronological order, allowing recruiters to see your best assets. Essentially, this option presents your most recent and relevant work experience at the top of the page, keeping the recruiter engaged with your value.

Another factor that makes reverse chronology essential is that recruiters tend to skim the latter half of a resume after reading the first half. You want your best to appear first .

Use plenty of big headings, white space, and clear fonts (Arial, Times New Roman, Calibri, Verdana) to improve readability. Unconventional options require more mental effort to read, which may spell doom for your Dental assistant resume.

Additional recommendations include:

• Use bullet points for past jobs
• Assign one-inch margins on all four sides
• Don’t size should be 11 or 12
• Divide your resume with heading (executive summary, education, skills, etc.)
• Don’t use photos

How to Write a Dental Assistant Resume Summary

A resume summary is a brief introduction to the document to highlight your most valuable skills and professional achievements. This section gives the hiring manager a quick overview of your abilities and value, encouraging them to continue reading.

Similar to every part of a resume, a correct way exists to write this summary, and the guidelines include:

• Place it on top: The resume summary functions as the first thing a hiring manager reads before the remaining content. For this reason, please put it on top of the document; else, it serves no meaningful purpose.
• Give it a professional tag: Ensure your resume summary possesses a straightforward label like Qualifications summary, resume summary, Career profile, etc. Anything that falls short of this requirement appears unprofessional or unnecessary.
• Keep it brief: The resume summary is a short overview of your qualifications and professional strength and should exceed a few lines. A brief paragraph is sufficient for the task.

Sample Dental Assistant Resume Summary

Two examples of the concept are here further to understand the structure and format of a resume sample. These include:

👌 Example 1

Detail-oriented Dental Assistant with over five years experience offering service in both the public and private sectors. Diplomatic, personable, and adept at managing sensitive situations. Looking to aid in tasks like instructing patients, monitoring and ordering supplies, and maintaining office appointment calendar.

👌 Example 2

Problem-solving Dental Assistant with strong attention to detail and impeccable hand-eye coordination. Possessing over 15 years of experience in assisting with dental procedures by prepping for surgeries and cleaning, performing X-rays, and completing basic examinations.

How to Write an Effective Dental Assistant Resume

A Dental Assistant resume is crucial for applying as a dentist helper , and this document has specific formats to display your work experience, skills, education, and other essential details.

Keep in mind that the format may change depending on how much information you wish to display; nevertheless, this section aims to present the most common steps for creating an effective dental assistant resume.

These phases include:

1. Outline Your Skills

The “Skills’” section is crucial to your Dental Assistant resume as it allows the employer to understand what makes you a valuable addition to the establishment. Remember that all skills mentioned under this heading must be relevant, and these abilities may include:

Consider including a section that lists your skills that best fit the job description. For a dental assistant, relevant skills include:

• Effective communication
• Cleanliness
• Detail-oriented
• Customer service
• Ability to follow orders
• Positive attitude

You’d also want to add technical skills , such as:

• X-Ray processing
• Understands dental tools
• Teeth Cleaning | Dental Radiographs
• Bleaching Tray & Temporary Crown Fabrications | Instrument Sterilization
• Temporary Fillings | Periodontal Dressings | Operatory Preparation

We recommend writing all your skills on a piece of paper to get a broad understanding of your professional abilities. Consider including skills that you think are unnecessary to the job description as you may discover other talents.

For example, writing down that you have good conversation skills also shows that you’re an excellent listener that can follow instructions.

2. Display Your Work Experience

It’s one thing to have skills in a profession, and it’s another to apply them successfully. Your experience section shows that your abilities were practical when used in your previous place of work.

If you don’t possess work experience as a former dental assistant but have a history with a similar field, consider including it in your resume. For example, a volunteer position at the dentist’s office may show you understand the daily activities in such an environment.

Remember to list your experience in descending order, beginning with your most recent dental assistant job. Most employers prefer knowing about your last 5 or 10 years of work history , so it’s best to save them time and show what they want.

3. Present Certifications

While it’s not impossible to find work as a dental assistant without the relevant certification, having the documents increases your chances of employment . The dentist will indicate whether you need these qualifications in the job description.

Nevertheless, including these pieces of information in your Dental assistant resume will help you stand out against competitors with no qualifications. The most popular certification for dental assistants is the Certified Dental Assistant (CDA), offered by the Dental Assisting National Board.

Aside from that, other relevant certificates are worth mentioning as they demonstrate your qualification for the job. Remember to include the organization that granted the certificate when listing it.

4. Include Your Education

While not having qualifications doesn’t always stop you from employment, most dentists prefer hiring assistants with formal education.

For this reason, it’s best to outline your education on your resume in descending order , starting from the most recent to the farthest. Also, include the institution you attended, the year of admission and graduation, and what certificate(s) you earned.

Understand Your Strenghts

Irrespective of your experience or qualifications as a dental assistant, understanding your strength is vital as it guides the structure and format of your resume.

For example, if you barely have any experience as an assistant but possess skills that are relevant to the profession, consider starting with those abilities and moving your knowledge to the bottom.

On the other hand, if you have significant experience in the field, make those appear first, followed by your skills.

How to Describe Your Dental Assistant Experience

Presenting your previous work experience, projects, and volunteer activities on your resume plays a crucial part in landing an interview with the dentist. However, there are specific ways to outline these factors to ensure they are sufficiently concise and descriptive.

This section should provide the prospective employer with substantial knowledge of your career past, strengths, skills, achievements, and many more. To achieve this goal, here are some tips to follow:

• Begin by staring the name of your previous place of work along with the location, date, and job title
• List your experience in reverse chronological order with your most recent experience first
• Be concise in your descriptions and use strong verbs. Ensure each description is relevant to the job role
• Use the present tense for career activities that are still ongoing and past tense for old experiences
• Avoid pronouns and prepositions like “I” “The” & “And”
• Aim to quantify your accomplishments and responsibilities if possible. For example, “successfully examined an average of 23 patients monthly for three years”.
• Only describe your experience and achievements, and avoid telling the organization’s duties.
• List the organization’s top three or four experiences to keep the document short.

These quick tips are sufficient to help structure the experience section in your resume , ensuring you present the maximum value.

The Best Dental Skills for a Resume

Skills are abilities and talents you develop to complete specific tasks in an establishment. There are several skills, but the two most prominent are soft and hard skills.

This section aims to provide you with information to display these abilities on your resume, ensuring your document appears clean and concise. These tips include:

• Ensure each skill is relevant to the Dental assistant position
• Categorize each skills type (for example, soft skills and hard skills)
• Each skill should appear in bullet points with no more than 10 in each category.
• Ensure the listed skills are also reflected in your experience section
• Start with the most in-demand skill

Now let’s take a look at the best skills for a dental resume :

Soft Skills

Flexibility Empathy Customer service Team player Positive attitude Attention to detail Active listening Patience Organization

Hard Skills

Schedule appointments Dental impressions Dental radiographs CPR Temporary crowns X-rays Dental procedure preparation Payment processing Manual Dexterity

How to Add a Certification in a Dental Resume

A certificate is proof that you possess specific training that has received approval from an authorized organization. This document shows your devotion to your career and provides evidence for your mentioned skills.

Even if the job doesn’t require certification, adding them can boost your resume , draw the employer’s attention, and present you as a competent and valuable hire.

To effectively outline these factors in your dental assistant resume, consider following the tips below:

• Name of Certification
• Name of Certifying Agency or Body
• Dates of Obtainment
• Location (If the certification is location-specific)
• Expiration date (don’t list expired certificates)
• Unfinished (include the expected finishing date)

Follow these steps for each resume certification entry.

Is Your Education Section Full of Cavities? It Might Be

While you won’t always need a formal education to impress a dentist and become their assistant, having such knowledge at your disposal raises your value in the employer’s eyes. In this case, consider assessing and strengthening your education section with additional information.

For example, instead of stating your school name, program length, and program title, include extra details like the degree’s length, hours of lab training, externship, and more. It will help you come across as valuable.

Dental Assistant Program (8 months) Hibbing Community College | Hibbing, MN 2015 – 2016

• Patient education
• Chair-side assistance
• Coronal polishing
• Training and a clinical externship (2 months)

How to Add Contact Info to your Resume?

Your contacts are equally as essential as your experiences, skills, and education as it allows the hiring manager to reach you for clarification or an interview. A well-organized contact section should be complete and include factors like your name, phone number, email address.

When composing this section , ensure to include the following:

• Name (full name)
• Professional Email address
• Physical mailing address (optional except requested)
• Active cell phone number
• Links to a professional profile or portfolio

Write your name in bold letters and proofread the entire section once it’s done.

How to Address a Cover Letter and Who to Address

Knowing how to address and address your cover letter is your first step in writing this vital introductory document. However, finding the right person to mention required research and some work, which may impress the reader.

As a rule of thumb, you should always address your cover letter to the hiring manager of the job or company that’s receiving your application. The salutation should include a “Mr.”, “Ms,” or any relevant title followed by their name.

As for finding the hiring manager’s name for the cover letter, often, it will appear on the job description. However, such detail isn’t included, seek it from other sources, and these may include:

• The company website: Consider visiting the company’s “About US” or “Company Directory” page as it often outlines all the relevant staff members in the organization.
• LinkedIn: The company’s LinkedIn page also contains information about its staff members, so visit the site and use filters to sort out the name.
• Google search: A specified Google search can help uncover the precise name of the hiring manager, and you can do this by inserting the company’s name and the relevant title into Google. The name is guaranteed to appear if the company has an online presence.
• Contact the company: Suppose you can’t find the hiring manager’s name on LinkedIn, the company’s website, or via a Google search. In that case, the last resort is contacting the company directly and asking for the information.

Explain that you want to apply for a position and address your cover letter to the hiring manager. The company will most likely provide the information, as research and respect are commendable traits in the corporate world.

How to Address a Cover Letter Without a Name

Don’t worry if the options presented above prove ineffective at acquiring the hiring manager’s name. You can proceed with your cover letter without their name, as many methods exist for such scenarios.

Below are some standard options for addressing your cover letter to an unknown person:

• Dear Sir/Madam
• Dear Human Resources Director
• Dear Hiring Manager

Key Takeaways

There you have it, all the information you need to create an effective dental assistant resume that convinces employers . However, before applying this information, allow us to build your dental assistant resume with our resume builder.

This tool contains multiple resume templates and guides, ensuring that you construct a well-formatted resume with little to no hassle.

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Dental Assistant Resume Examples [+ 3 Samples]

Discover our complete guide and selection of Dental Assistant resume examples to use to create your own resume with our easy-to-use resume builder . Below you'll find our how-to section that will guide you through each section of a Dental Assistant resume.

Dental Assistant Resume Overview

Looking for dental assistant resume examples? If you have a passion for helping others and public health, you may consider a career as a dental assistant. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that dental assistant careers will grow at an above-average rate of 11% between now and 2030, meaning joining the dental industry as a dental assistant can provide you with an excellent job outlook for the future.

Dental assistants often enjoy stable, full-time employment, good pay, and, of course, the positive feeling of helping others daily. However, if you’re looking to secure a job as a dental assistant, you’ll first have to create a resume that stands out from the rest. Thankfully, the VisualCV team is here to help you every step of the way! This page provides you with Dental Assisant resume samples to use to create your own resume with our easy-to-use resume builder . Read on for dental assistant resume examples to land you your dream job in 2022.

What is a Dental Assistant?

Dental assistants work closely with dentists, both under their supervision and in order to help them provide the best possible dental care to patients. On any given day, a dental assistant may be preparing patients to see the dentist, performing basic procedures under a dentist’s supervision, or supplying and preparing dental instruments to be used during appointments.

Are Dental Assistants and Dental Hygienists the Same?

Dental assistants and dental hygienists share many of the same duties and responsibilities. For example, both dental assistants and hygienists are in charge of preparing instruments and patients for the dentist. They’ll both speak with patients before and after they have been seen by the dentist, and relay any concerns or issues. Some dental practices will have dental hygienists, but not dental assistants. So, does that mean that dental assistants and dental hygienists are the same thing?

No! While both jobs have overlapping responsibilities, dental assistants are responsible for fewer tasks than dental hygienists. Because the education and training requirements for dental assistants is less intensive than that for hygienists, dental assistants are not legally allowed to perform many dental procedures. However, there are two tiers of qualified dental assistants; a Level I Dental Assistant, and a Level II Dental Assistant. A level II assistant has received more training, and thus is able to perform some basic dental procedures under the supervision of a dentist.

So what does a level I dental assistant do? Much like hygienists, level I dental assistants are there to help dentists provide a high level of care to patients. A level I dental assistant’s role in this usually involves administrative or logistical support, rather than medical care or other dental procedures.

Level I dental assistants are trained to:

• Take x-rays
• Provide support for patients during procedures
• Take impressions of patients’ teeth for models
• Perform dental office management tasks
• Provide oral care instructions to patients
• Assisting the dentist and dental hygienist with dental procedures

In order to become a level II dental assistant, you must obtain further education. Level II dental assistants are permitted to perform more technical procedures because they have specific intra-oral training. A level II dental assistant is trained to perform all of the tasks a level I dental assistant performs, as well as:

• Mechanically polishing the surface of teeth
• Applying anesthetics and whitening products to teeth
• Applying materials to teeth to prepare them for other dental procedures
• Place and remove dental dam caps

Because level II dental assistants have more training and responsibilities, they should expect to earn more in salary than level I dental assistants. However, the upfront costs of becoming a level II dental assistant are more than those associated with level I dental assistants. Consider your own situation and expected career trajectory when deciding whether to embark on additional dental assistant training.

How to Write a Dental Assistant Resume

To write a dental assistant resume, think about your training first and foremost. Whether you’re applying as a new graduate or as someone with years of experience, keep in mind that hiring managers are looking for clear answers to one main question: are you qualified to perform the tasks required of a dental assistant?

In general, your dental assistant resume should contain the following:

• Your experience
• Your Education
• Your skills, including any professional certifications

The Best Format for a Dental Assistant Resume

Because dental assistants need specific training in order to perform the duties of the job, your dental assistant resume should highlight your education and training. If you’re seeking your first dental assistant job, or if you don’t have much other dental assistant experience, you should make sure to clearly state your education, dental assistant level, and any additional certifications you hold. When you select your professionally designed dental assistant resume template with VisualCV, your education, certifications, and experience can take center stage.

3 Dental Assistant Resume Summary Examples

Your summary should be short and to the point. This is the very first thing a recruiter will see, so make sure you’re putting your absolute best foot forward. Highlight your level of experience if you aren’t applying for entry-level positions, or your recent academic accomplishment if you’re a new graduate. Make sure to read the job description carefully and adjust your resume to fit it -- as long as what you’re saying is true, of course! In roles like dental assistants, keep in mind that hiring managers are looking for clear answers to one main question: are you qualified to perform the tasks required of a dental assistant?

Many recruiters and companies now use Applicant Tracking Systems to automate and streamline the recruitment process. While this is a great benefit for companies, some applicants have been met with the frustration of their resumes not ever being seen by a real person -- if the resume doesn’t get past the ATS software, it’s usually discarded. Thankfully, VisualCV’s resume templates have been specifically designed to beat applicant tracking systems, making your dental assistant resume much more likely to make it in front of the right person.

• The Wrong Way to Write a Dental Assistant Resume Summary

Your summary shouldn’t be too wordy or personal – that’s what your cover letter is for! This first step in your dental assistant resume exists to give hiring managers a brief glimpse into your personality and experience. Not all hiring managers agree that a resume summary is necessary, but if your resume summary is clear, to the point, and hones in on what the job description is asking for, include it!

Don’t: Hi! My name is Jane Smith, and I’ve always wanted to be a dental assistant. That’s why I became certified as a Level II Dental Assistant! At school, I gained experience in radiographs, mechanical polishing, and dental modelling – but I definitely preferred polishing over modelling! I hope you’ll consider me for this dental assistant job.

• Dental Assistant Resume Summary Sample

Recent graduate Certified Level II Dental Assistant with experience in radiographs, dental modelling, and mechanical polishing. I’m looking for the first step in my dental assistant career, and I can’t wait to get started!

• Professional Summary for a Dental Assistant

Certified Level II Dental Assistant and Certified Preventive Functions Dental Assistant with 10 years of experience working with disabled and special-needs patients.

• Dental Assistant Resume Summary Example

Registered Dental Assistant in the state of California with 3 years of office experience. Areas of expertise include dental modelling and orthodontics (Certified Orthodontic Assistant).

Do You Need a Dental Assistant Resume Objective?

Many people think resume objectives are a requirement for each and every dental assistant resume they write. However, dental assistant resume objectives are only recommended for people looking to transition into a new role, or for people looking for an entry-level dental assistant position.

• Dental Assistant Resume Objective Example

Certified dental assistant seeking to use my experience as a dental office administrator to transition into a dental assisting role.

How to Describe Your Experience On Your Dental Assistant Resume

This is where you can really start bragging. Alison Green, author of Ask a Manager, highlights the single biggest resume mistake she saw in her time as a hiring manager: “Writing a resume that reads like a series of job descriptions.”

“The bullet points they use to describe what they did for each job just list activities and read like a job description for the role might,” she says. “For example, ‘edit documents,’ ‘collect data,’ or ‘manage website.’”

While writing the experience section of your dental assistant resume, focus on what you accomplished at each position.

Level I Dental Assistant, KidzSmilez Dentistry | 2018-2020

• Set-up and executed upwards of 20 dental x-rays per shift
• Created new emotional support protocols for nervous patients and patients under the age of five
• Gathered, organized, and prepared dental instruments for 40-50 dental procedures per day

A hiring manager will be looking for the facts. What did you do at your previous jobs that made you stand out? For which projects did you receive the most praise? Providing tangible facts shows hiring managers that you have the potential to do the same at your next job.

• A Bad Dental Assistant Job Description on a Resume

Consider the following entry.

• Performed x-rays
• Provided patient support
• Prepared dental instruments

This entry focuses on responsibilities you had at a previous job, but doesn’t describe what you achieved there. Hiring managers will likely already understand the types of tasks you performed at previous jobs. Your goal is to show them how good you are at performing those tasks!

How to List Skills on Your Dental Assistant Resume

What skills should you include on a dental assistant resume? While you should always try and list the skills that the job posting is asking for, there are some skills that come with the territory of being a dental assistant. Looking for more information about adding skills to your resume? Check out our resume skills guide here.

• Professional Certifications to List on Your Dental Assistant Resume

When you’re considering a job in a medical or medical-adjacent field, certifications become the most important aspect of your resume. Hiring managers (and your future patients!) want to know just one thing: are you theoretically and practically trained to perform the duties listed in the job description?

Once you’ve completed basic dental assistant training, you’ll have opportunities to become further qualified in your field. These additional certifications can lead to more lucrative positions as a dental assistant, with further responsibilities. However, make sure to research the laws and regulations relevant to you and your location before deciding to pursue certification as a dental assistant. Some states, for example, require specific professional certifications in order to work as a dental assistant, while others do not. Read on for just a few of the certifications you might add to your dental assistant resume!

Certified Dental Assistant (CDA)

To become a Certified Dental Assistant, or CDA, you’ll have to complete a 320-question-long exam administered by the Dental Assisting National Board in the US. While not all states require this certification, it’s a great way to ensure your skills match the requirements for every dental assistant job you may come across.

Registered Dental Assistant

Depending on your state, you may have to be listed as a registered dental assistant in order to work as a dental assistant. Different states have different requirements for becoming a dental assistant, and by becoming an RDA, you’ll ensure you meet those requirements. To become an RDA, dental assistants must pass the registered dental assistant certification exam through the American Medical Technologists Association.

National Entry Level Dental Assistant (NELDA)

This certification recognizes dental assistants just starting out in their careers. If you’re writing an entry-level dental assistant resume, having this certification could help you stand out from other entry-level candidates because it shows the hiring manager that you take your career progression and training seriously. To achieve the NELDA certification, applicants must pass three exams: one in anatomy, morphology and physiology, one in infection control, and one in radiation health and safety.

Certified Orthodontic Assistant (COA)

Beyond basic dental assistant certifications, dental assistants can also take on additional training to enable them to perform even more duties. Certified orthodontic assistants assist orthodontists with their daily tasks. Often, a COA will have to clean and tighten braces and examine a patient’s teeth and jaw to assess the progress of their orthodontic work. These duties occur in addition to a dental assistant’s normal functions.

Certified Preventive Functions Dental Assistant (CPFDA)

This certification is another one dental assistants can obtain to stand out from other assistants, and to expand their knowledge of the field. Becoming a preventive functions dental assistant means assisting patients who are looking to fight dental issues before they arise. This is usually done through teeth cleaning and oral health check-ups.

Applicants must pass a coronal polishing exam, a sealants exam, and a topical fluoride exam in order to become a CPFDA.

Certified Restorative Functions Dental Assistant (CRFDA)

While a preventive functions dental assistant aims to help patients before any issues emerge, a restorative functions dental assistant is there to assist when issues have already been identified. CRFDAs usually help with restorative procedures, such as fillings or dental implants, and have more technical knowledge than preventive functions dental assistants. Because of this, the process to become a CRFDA is slightly more complicated than that to become a CPFDA. Applicants must pass four exams: one in impressions, one in sealants, one in temporaries, and one in restorative functions.

• Most Important Soft Skills for Dental Assistants

While “hard” or taught skills are often prioritized for dental assistant jobs, hiring mangers are often looking for soft skills, too. Not only will these skills help you in your day-to-day tasks as a dental assistant, hiring managers will also notice whether you’ve included them in your resume. For example, if you aren’t a “people person” who enjoys speaking with people as part of your job, becoming a dental assistant may not be the best option for you. Here are a few of the soft skills hiring managers look for when they seek out dental assistants.

Communication

Are you the type of person who can talk to anybody? That skill will come in handy as a dental assistant. Depending on the day, you might speak to medical professionals, clients, suppliers, or other individuals. Knowing how to explain what a dentist is doing to a nervous patient, for example, is an excellent trait for a dental assistant to have. You’ll also need to maintain open communication between yourself and the practicing dentist during dental procedures, to ensure the safety and comfort of the patient.

First and foremost, a dental assistant’s job is about helping others. If you’ve always found yourself putting others first and trying to do everything you can to brighten someone’s day, a career as a dental assistant might be perfect for you. If, on the other hand, you’d prefer a job where you are solely responsible for your own happiness, you may be better suited to a different type of career.

Organization

Between keeping patient notes, booking appointments, performing dental procedures, and maintaining and ordering medical supplies, a dental assistant is always busy! Staying extremely organized is the key to success in fast-paced jobs, especially those in the medical field where patient safety is of the utmost priority. Highlighting your organizational skills in your dental assistant resume will demonstrate to hiring managers that you understand everything the job requires.

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Something about this job catch your eye, but you aren’t quite sure if it’s a match? Check out these related resumes and discover where your next career move could take you.

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Dental Assistant Salaries

Many people choose to become dental assistants for the stable work and good income the job provides. But just how much do dental assistants make?

Generally, your salary as a dental assistant can increase depending on your level of experience and any other qualifications you might obtain through additional training. According to Indeed, the average entry-level salary for a dental assistant is around $55,000. Take a look at how your salary could increase depending on your experience below:

• 1-2 years: $60,000
• 3-5 years: $69,000
• 6-9 years: $72,000
• More than 10 years: $78,000

How to Become a Dental Assistant

Dental assistant jobs don’t generally require applicants to have a college degree, which makes them even more attractive for people looking for a different path through life. However, formal training and education is usually still required for people who wish to become dental assistants. Read on to discover how to become a dental assistant!

• What should you study to become a dental assistant?

In some states, no formal training is required to begin a career as a dental assistant. Instead, prospective dental assistants work in dentist offices to learn the basics, and can then begin operating as level I dental assistants. However, most dental assistants will have completed formal education. Prospective dental assistants usually attend a community college or technical school for a dental assistant program that lasts one to two years, depending on the scope of the curriculum and whether the student is aiming to become a level I or a level II dental assistant.

Always check your state’s requirements for dental assistants before you decide on the educational path you’d like to take.

• Dental Assistant Externships

An externship is similar to an internship, in that someone just starting out in a career path can work at an externship to learn the ins and outs of the job. Completing an externship is an excellent way to stand out from the crowd when applying to full-time dental assistant jobs, because employers will know that you already understand the practical realities of working as a dental assistant. Externships are offered in partnership with a learning institution. Therefore, if you’re interested in completing an externship before entering the workforce full-time, research dental assistant programs and schools that offer externship programs.

Final Thoughts

Dental assistants do crucial work in dental offices every day, and becoming a dental assistant can provide you with stable work, a good salary, and opportunities for professional advancement. If you’re the kind of person who likes helping others and thrives in fast-paced environments, you might consider becoming a dental assistant!

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