What Is a Dental Assistant? And How to Become One?

October 5, 20222 Minutes Read
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If you're interested in becoming a dental assistant, this article is for you. It covers everything from what it means to be a dental assistant to the qualifications needed to get the job.

What is a dental assistant?

Dental assistants help dentists, hygienists and other health care providers by performing various tasks such as cleaning teeth and filling cavities, scheduling appointments and answering phones.

Most dental assistants work full-time jobs, but some work part-time while pursuing additional education, such as going directly into medical school after obtaining their license. They may eventually specialise further within that field.

Job Overview:

Dental assistants perform a wide range of duties and are patients' first point of contact. They may be in charge of taking care of the paperwork, scheduling appointments and setting up procedures. In addition to providing support for the dentist, dental assistants can also be called dental hygienists (DHs).

Dental assistants are often asked to perform administrative tasks such as filing insurance claims or assisting with billing at check-in stations in dental offices. Other duties include making house calls on behalf of dentists; maintaining patient records; preparing X-ray films; providing treatments such as scaling or polishing teeth using fluorides and sealants; taking X-rays if needed by a particular patient; ordering supplies from suppliers such as crowns or bridges before delivering them directly into clients' mouths.

How to become a certified dental assistant in India:

  1. You will need to complete 12th Grade in Science with a specialisation in Biology.

  2. You can opt for a Dental Training Course/Certification program that includes classroom instruction, clinical practice and hands-on experience on the job. The training period varies depending on your chosen institute, but it usually takes three to six months to complete this course before you are eligible to apply for an entry-level job at a dental clinic or hospital as an assistant dentist.

  3. Certification isn't required. However, there are some benefits of being certified:a. Certification can improve job prospects and pay. Employers often require applicants who are certified or have completed additional training programs to be considered for jobs as dental assistants.b. Certification can improve job security. It will make the job search easier.

  4. Find a job and get experience! Now that you are aware of what a dental assistant is and how to become one, it's time to find a job! Talk with people who have been successful in the field and see if they can advise on getting a job and what areas are currently hiring.

    If you need help deciding before opting for it as a career, Glow & Lovely Careers (formerly Fair & Lovely Career Foundation) offers free career guidance. You can also upskill yourself withfree online coursesand make a resume for free to apply for work. An also upskill yourself with free online courses and make a resume for free to apply for work.

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February 19, 20242 Minutes Read

Social Entrepreneurship: Women Driving Impactful Change in India

A powerful force is reshaping communities and driving positive change -- women-led social entrepreneurship . As the narrative of entrepreneurship evolves, so does the role of women who are not just creating businesses but building ventures with a profound impact on society. Let's explore the realm of women's entrepreneurship and the significant strides in social entrepreneurship .

Social entrepreneurship is about harnessing the power of business to address social and environmental challenges. In India, many women embrace this approach, positioning themselves as business leaders and catalysts for positive change. Their ventures aim not just for profit but also for meaningful impact on the communities they serve.

The landscape of women entrepreneurship in India is growing, with female entrepreneurs actively participating in diverse sectors, including social entrepreneurship. This shift is breaking stereotypes and showcasing the multifaceted roles women can play as business leaders with a mission beyond just financial gains.

One compelling aspect of this transformation is the variety of startup ideas for women in social entrepreneurship. From ventures addressing healthcare disparities to those focused on education, women are bringing innovative solutions to the forefront. These ventures are not just about economic empowerment but about creating sustainable change in the fabric of society.

Social entrepreneurship ideas are often born from a deep understanding of local challenges. As the architects of many of these initiatives, women bring a unique perspective to problem-solving. Whether providing access to clean water, improving healthcare facilities, or promoting sustainable agriculture, these entrepreneurs are at the forefront of impactful change.

The intersection of entrepreneur ideas for women and social entrepreneurship creates a space where purpose-driven businesses thrive. Women are not just looking for financial success; they seek ways to contribute meaningfully to society. The spirit of collaboration and community building is embedded in their ventures, fostering a sense of shared responsibility and collective well-being.

One notable example is Preeti Singh, a social entrepreneur who founded a venture focused on menstrual hygiene in rural India. Her initiative addresses a critical health issue and empowers women by providing them with sustainable and affordable solutions. Preeti's story represents the transformative potential of women's entrepreneurship in tackling societal challenges.

The emphasis on social entrepreneurship among women is also generating a ripple effect regarding mentorship and support networks. Established female entrepreneurs are actively encouraging and guiding the next generation. This mentorship is crucial in nurturing a culture of innovation and resilience among women venturing into social entrepreneurship.

The momentum of women entrepreneurship in social impact ventures is not just a trend; it signifies a paradigm shift in how businesses operate in India. Organisations and institutions recognise women's value in terms of empathy, collaboration, and a deep understanding of community needs.

The rise of social entrepreneurship driven by women in India is a testament to the transformative power of purpose-driven businesses. As more women explore and invest in entrepreneurial ideas for women that focus on social impact, the future promises a more equitable and sustainable society. These women entrepreneurs are not just building businesses but driving impactful change and leaving an indelible mark on the nation's socio-economic fabric.

At Glow & Lovely Careers (formerly known as Fair & Lovely Career Foundation), we believe in empowering women to be independent. We provide online career guidance, existing jobs and other online courses to help them nurture their dream of driving social entrepreneurship in India.