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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  make a resume that lands interviews.

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

Everyone starts somewhere! For an entry-level position, you can leverage non-traditional experience, including academic or even personal projects that can demonstrate translatable experience that will still be important as a dental assistant. Here are some tips:

• 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.

• Career Blog

20+ Dental Assistant Resume Examples for 2024

Dental assistants are vital members of the dental team who work alongside dentists and dental hygienists to provide quality dental care to their patients. They perform a variety of tasks such as patient care, clinical procedures, and administrative duties to ensure that the dental practice operates smoothly and efficiently.

Dental assistants may also be responsible for taking diagnostic x-rays, managing patient records, and providing oral health education to patients. They play a critical role in supporting the dental team and are often the first point of contact with patients.

Importance of Dental Assistant Resume

A well-crafted dental assistant resume is essential to landing a job in the competitive field of dentistry. A resume serves as a marketing tool for the candidate and highlights their skills, experience, and achievements.

Employers want to see a clear and concise summary of the candidate’s qualifications and experience in the dental field. The resume should showcase the candidate’s ability to work well under pressure, attention to detail, and strong communication skills.

It is also important for the dental assistant resume to be tailored to the job opening they are applying for. This means that the resume should highlight skills and experience relevant to the job posting.

Having a polished and professional dental assistant resume can make the difference between getting an interview and being overlooked. In this article, we provide 20+ dental assistant resume examples to help job seekers create a standout resume that will impress potential employers.

Key Components of a Dental Assistant Resume

When it comes to creating a winning dental assistant resume, several key components must be included to showcase your qualifications and experience effectively. These components are:

Contact Information

The first section of your dental assistant resume should include your professional contact information. This includes your full name, phone number, email address, and physical address. Make sure to provide accurate and up-to-date information.

Objective Statement/Summary

The objective statement, also known as a summary, is a brief statement that summarizes your career goals and the skills you bring to the table. Keep it concise and make sure to tailor it to the job you are applying for.

Education and Certifications

Your education and certifications are critical components of your dental assistant resume. List your highest degree, any relevant coursework or certifications, and include the name, location, and date of completion.

Relevant Skills

Relevant dental assisting skills make you stand out from the competition. Highlight your proficiency in tasks such as sterilization, taking impressions, assisting with treatments, and managing patient records.

Work Experience

Your work experience should be listed in reverse chronological order, starting with your most recent position. Include the name and location of the employer, the dates of employment, position held, significant responsibilities, and any measurable accomplishments.

Accomplishments

Highlighting specific accomplishments can set you apart on a dental assistant resume. Examples could include exceeding daily sterilization quotas, learning and implementing new technology in the workplace, or receiving praise from supervisors or patients.

Honors and Awards

Additional recognition such as academic achievements, certifications, and industry awards should also be included in this section.

Relevant Extracurricular Activities

Participation in relevant activities outside of work or school demonstrates a commitment to professional development in the dental industry. This could include membership in professional organizations, volunteer work, or continuing education courses.

A successful dental assistant resume should include contact information, an objective statement, education and certifications, relevant skills, work experience, accomplishments, honors and awards, and relevant extracurricular activities. By highlighting your unique qualifications through these key components, you can create a compelling resume that stands out to prospective employers in the competitive field of dental assisting.

Types of Dental Assistant Resumes

When it comes to crafting your dental assistant resume, you have different options to choose from, depending on your work experience, skills, and career goals. Here are the most common types of dental assistant resumes:

1. Chronological Resume

A chronological resume is the most traditional and widely used format. It lists your work history in reverse order, starting with your most recent job and going back in time. This type of resume is suitable for dental assistants who have a solid work experience and want to emphasize their career progression and achievements.

A chronological resume typically includes the following sections:

• Contact information
• Professional summary or objective statement
• Work experience (including job title, company name, dates of employment, and key responsibilities and accomplishments)
• Education and certifications
• Skills (optional)

2. Functional Resume

A functional resume focuses on your skills and achievements, rather than your work history. This type of resume is suitable for dental assistants who have gaps in their work experience, are changing careers, or have a diverse skill set that they want to highlight.

A functional resume typically includes the following sections:

• Skills (organized in categories, such as clinical skills, administrative skills, communication skills, etc.)
• Achievements and accomplishments (using bullet points to describe how you used your skills to achieve specific results)
• Education and certifications (optional)

3. Combination Resume

A combination resume is a mix between a chronological and functional resume. It combines the best of both formats, by showcasing your work history and skills in one single document. This type of resume is suitable for dental assistants who want to emphasize both their experience and their skills, and how they can use them to benefit a new employer.

A combination resume typically includes the following sections:

Whichever type of dental assistant resume you choose, make sure it is tailored to the specific job you are applying for, and showcases your strengths and qualifications. Remember to proofread your resume carefully, and use keywords and phrases that are relevant to the dental industry to increase your chances of getting noticed by employers.

Dental Assistant Resume Writing Tips

When crafting your dental assistant resume, there are a few key factors that can make the difference between getting the job of your dreams or not. Here are four vital tips for making your resume shine.

Highlighting Keyword Skills

In today’s digital age, most hiring managers will first conduct a keyword search to find resumes that match their requirements. Therefore, it is essential to pay attention to the keywords used in job descriptions and make sure they are included in your resume. Make a list of the most critical keywords used in the job posting and include them throughout your resume.

Keeping Resume Concise

Your resume needs to be easy to read, so simplicity is key. Keeping your resume concise serves two purposes: it shows that you can communicate your experience and skills concisely, and it makes it easier for the hiring manager to skim your resume and catch the most important information quickly. Limit your resume to two pages, focusing only on your most relevant experience.

Tailoring Resume To Job Description

Each employment opportunity requires a unique set of skills, and it is crucial to tailor your resume to each job description. Use the job description as a guide and make sure your resume addresses the specific requirements of the position. By showing how your unique expertise maps to the employer’s needs, you are more likely to stand out from other candidates.

Proofreading and Editing

No matter how qualified you are, grammatical errors and misspellings on your resume can disqualify you from the running for a job. To avoid making careless mistakes, read your resume out loud, use a grammar-checking tool, and have a friend or mentor review your work. Make sure your resume is free of any errors that might disqualify you from the position.

By following the tips outlined above, you can make your dental assistant resume stand out and increase your chances of landing your ideal job. Remember, your resume is a representation of you, so take the extra time to make it the best it can be.

Dental Assistant Resume Examples

If you’re looking for a job as a dental assistant, having a well-crafted resume is key. Your resume needs to highlight your qualifications, experience, and skills to stand out to potential employers. In this section, we’ll provide various dental assistant resume examples, including entry-level, experienced, pediatric, orthodontic, certified, and registered dental assistant resumes. Additionally, we’ll provide dental assistant resume objective examples and cover letter samples to help you create a complete job application package.

A. Entry-Level Dental Assistant Resume Samples

An entry-level dental assistant resume should highlight your education, relevant coursework, and any relevant experience, including internships or volunteer work. Here is an example of an entry-level dental assistant resume:

Sample Entry-Level Dental Assistant Resume

Address: 123 Main Street, Anytown, USA Phone: (555) 123-4567 Email: [email protected]

Highly motivated and detail-oriented dental assistant seeking an entry-level position in a reputable dental clinic. Committed to providing exceptional patient care and assisting dental professionals in delivering quality dental services. Eager to contribute to a positive and efficient dental practice while gaining valuable hands-on experience in the field.

• Completed coursework in dental anatomy, chairside assisting, dental radiography, infection control, and dental office management.
• Gained practical experience through hands-on training in a simulated dental office environment.
• Knowledge of dental terminology, procedures, and instruments.
• Proficient in chairside assisting, taking patient histories, and preparing treatment rooms.
• Skilled in dental radiography techniques, including X-rays and intraoral imaging.
• Familiarity with infection control protocols and sterilization techniques.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, ensuring a positive patient experience.
• Detail-oriented with strong organizational and time management abilities.
• Ability to work effectively in a team and follow instructions from dental professionals.
• Proficient in dental practice management software and basic computer skills.

Clinical Experience

Dental Assistant Internship XYZ Dental Clinic 2022

• Assisted dental professionals in providing chairside support during various dental procedures.
• Prepared treatment rooms, sterilized instruments, and ensured a clean and organized work environment.
• Assisted with patient intake, taking and recording vital signs, and updating medical histories.
• Performed dental radiographs, both intraoral and extraoral, following proper safety protocols.
• Educated patients on proper oral hygiene practices and post-treatment care instructions.

Volunteer Experience

Community Dental Outreach Program ABC Community Center 2020 – 2021

• Assisted dental professionals in providing dental care to underserved communities.
• Prepared and organized dental equipment and supplies for mobile dental clinics.
• Assisted in patient registration, scheduling, and record-keeping.
• Provided chairside support during dental procedures, ensuring patient comfort and safety.
• Educated patients on oral health practices and preventive care.

Available upon request.

Dental Assistant Resumes Dos and Don’ts

Here are some key do’s and don’ts for creating a standout dental assistant resume:

Do’s:

Use effective statements: A great dental assistant resume should include strong statements that highlight your skills, achievements, and experience. Use action verbs that convey your achievements such as, “Managed patient schedule effectively and efficiently,” or “Implemented new procedures to improve office operations.” These statements should showcase your expertise and relevant accomplishments to make you stand out from the competition.

Be an expert in dental terms: As a dental assistant, you should be well-versed in dental terminology, procedures, and protocols. Your resume should reflect this too, using industry terminology and jargon where applicable. This will demonstrate a deep understanding and proficiency in your field.

Highlight your experience: Dental assisting is a hands-on profession that thrives on practical experience. Ensure your resume highlights your relevant experience in the dental industry. Include information about the types of procedures you’ve assisted in, how you’ve worked with patients, and the dental software you are familiar with.

Include your qualifications and certifications: To become a dental assistant, you need to be certified or registered in some states. Highlight your certifications and qualifications, including license numbers, where applicable. This will show recruiters that you have the appropriate training and you can hit the ground running.

Be specific: Avoid vagueness and generalities. Instead, focus on your accomplishments and give specific details about your duties and responsibilities. For instance, instead of stating, “Assisted with dental procedures,” say “Assisted the dentist during root canal procedures, from preparing the patient to sterilizing equipment.”

Don’ts:

Lie or exaggerate: It’s tempting to inflate your accomplishments to make yourself stand out or stretch the truth to cover gaps in experience, but remember that you still need to be truthful. Never lie or exaggerate your achievements or qualifications as it’s easy to get caught in a lie and damage your reputation.

Use generic statements: Avoid cliches and generic statements that do not offer any insights into your capabilities. Such statements may seem catchy, but they are not enough to differentiate you from other candidates. Instead, focus on specific and measurable accomplishments that demonstrate your capabilities.

Following these dos and don’ts will help you create a compelling dental assistant resume that showcases your expertise, qualifications, and experience. Remember to customize your resume for each job opening, highlighting the skills and qualifications that align with the job requirements. Good luck!

Creative Dental Assistant Resumes: Examples and Tips

Are you tired of sending traditional resumes and getting no response from dental clinics? It’s time to boost your job search by creating a creative dental assistant resume.

Here are three examples of creative dental assistant resumes that will make you stand out from the competition:

Infographic Resumes

Infographic resumes are a visual way to showcase your skills and achievements. Instead of a traditional text-based resume, an infographic resume uses graphics, charts, and other design elements to highlight your qualifications.

To create an effective infographic resume, keep it simple and focused. Choose colors that match the dental clinic’s branding and use icons that represent your skills and experience. Don’t forget to include your contact information and relevant work experience.

Video Resumes

Video resumes are a great way to introduce yourself to potential employers. A video resume allows you to highlight your personality and communication skills while showcasing your dental assistant skills.

To create a video resume, prepare a script that highlights your skills and achievements. Make sure to dress professionally and choose a quiet location to record your video. Keep it short, no more than two minutes, and edit it to ensure it’s polished and professional.

Creative Design Resumes

Creative design resumes are a great way to showcase your creativity and design skills. They allow you to demonstrate your graphic design, layout, and typography skills while still highlighting your experience in the dental industry.

To create a creative design resume, choose a unique and eye-catching layout. Use graphic design elements such as color, typography, and icons to create a visually appealing resume. Make sure to keep the design simple and clean, as you still want the focus to be on your qualifications as a dental assistant.

Creating a creative dental assistant resume can help you stand out and make a memorable first impression on potential employers. Keep in mind that while the format may be different, the content is still important. Make sure to highlight your relevant work experience, skills, and education in any type of creative resume you choose.

Impressive Dental Assistant Resume Templates

Modern and stylish resumes.

A modern and stylish dental assistant resume template conveys a sense of professionalism and can be ideal for showcasing your skills and experience. These templates often have sleek designs with bold color shades that add an element of visual appeal to your resume. They may also include icons and graphs that enhance the presentation of your work history.

Using a modern and stylish resume template can help you catch the recruiter’s attention and make a positive first impression. These templates are perfect for those who want to show that they are up-to-date with modern trends in the dental industry.

Creative Resumes

If you want to stand out from the crowd, a creative dental assistant resume template can be the perfect choice. These templates are designed to bring your personality and creativity to your resume, making it more memorable and unique.

A creative dental assistant resume template may include design elements such as borders, unique fonts, and color schemes. These templates can be perfect for those who want to showcase their creativity and artistic skills.

Creativity can help you differentiate yourself from other applicants in the dental industry. It can help set you apart and make you more memorable to recruiters and employers.

Customizable Resumes

Customizable resumes allow you to tailor your resume to fit your specific needs and the requirements of the job you are applying for. With these templates, you can personalize your resume by choosing the font style, color palette, and layout.

Using a customizable resume template can help you highlight your strengths and make your resume more effective. Customizing your resume also shows the recruiter that you have taken the time and effort to create a tailored resume for their specific needs.

Using modern and stylish, creative, and customizable dental assistant resume templates can help you create an impressive resume that stands out from the crowd. Employers want to see candidates who are professional, creative, and have a personal touch. These templates can help you achieve just that.

Dental Assistant Resume Checklist

A strong and effective dental assistant resume must include all the necessary components that showcase your skills, experience, and qualifications. These components are essential to make your resume stand out from the competition and increase your chances of getting hired. The following checklist will help you ensure that your dental assistant resume includes all the necessary components:

Contact information: Make sure to include your name, phone number, email address, and mailing address. This information should be placed at the top of your resume.

Objective statement or summary: This section should highlight your career goals and summarize your skills and experience related to the dental assistant position.

Education: List all the relevant education and training you have that apply to the dental assistant job. This includes any certifications or licenses you have obtained.

Skills: This section should highlight your technical and interpersonal skills related to the dental assistant position. Be sure to include your knowledge of dental terminology, software, and equipment.

Work experience: Showcase your previous work experience as a dental assistant. List your job titles, job duties, and achievements. Use bullet points to make the information easy to read and understand.

Once you have all the necessary components in place, it’s important to ensure that your resume is free from any errors. This will show that you have attention to detail and that you take pride in your work. Use the following tips to ensure that your dental assistant resume is error-free:

Grammar check: Use a grammar checker or proofread your resume to ensure that there are no grammatical errors, typos, or punctuation mistakes.

Spell check: Use a spell checker to ensure that your resume is free of spelling errors.

Format consistency: Use a consistent format throughout your resume, including font, spacing, and margins. This will make your resume look organized and professional.

Finally, tailor your resume to the job description provided by the employer. This means highlighting the skills, experience, and qualifications that match the requirements of the job. This will show the employer that you are a good fit for the position and increase your chances of getting hired.

Your dental assistant resume must include all the necessary components, be free of errors, and be tailored to the job description. By following these guidelines, you will create a strong and effective resume that showcases your skills and qualifications as a dental assistant.

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• Medical Resumes

10 Dental Assistant Resume Examples - Here's What Works In 2024

Dental assistants are on the front lines of working with both dentists and patients to create a clear path forward for dental health. if you want to work in a fast-paced field that contains both clinical and clerical elements, this guide will help you build a dental assistant resume by reviewing three example templates and a list of key skills and action verbs to consider including.

Dental health is considered by many physicians to be the foundation for overall health, meaning those who work in the field as dental assistants are providing a valuable service to the public while simultaneously honing various transferable skills. Dental assistants are in high demand with the Bureau of Labor Statistics anticipating a seven percent annual growth rate through 2029 - or almost double the rate of growth for most jobs. Dental assistants can expect to work directly with patients, including completing registration, handling insurance details, and scheduling appointments. In addition, dental assistants will often perform clinical work such as sterilizing equipment, preparing the patient for the dentist, or assisting the dentist during oral health procedures. Hiring managers are looking for specific skills and responsibilities in their dental assistant applicants, and this guide will help you identify and include the appropriate skills that match your experience. We’ll start by looking at three example resumes for dental assistants at different stages of their careers.

Dental Assistant Resume Templates

Jump to a template:

• Dental Assistant
• Certified Dental Assistant
• Registered Dental Assistant
• Entry Level Dental Assistant
• Experienced Dental Assistant
• Pediatric Dental Assistant
• Lead Dental Assistant

Jump to a resource:

• Keywords for Dental Assistant Resumes

Dental Assistant Resume Tips

• Action Verbs to Use
• Related Medical Resumes

Get advice on each section of your resume:

Template 1 of 10: Dental Assistant Resume Example

As a dental assistant, you play a vital role in supporting dentists and performing various tasks that keep dental practices running smoothly. In recent years, there's been an increased focus on patient comfort and creating a welcoming environment, so dental assistants should emphasize these skills in their resumes. Additionally, dental practices are adopting more advanced technology, so showcasing your familiarity with these tools can set you apart from other candidates. When writing your resume, it's important to highlight your hands-on experience and knowledge of dental procedures, as well as any specific certifications you have obtained. Also, don't forget to mention any administrative duties you've handled, as dental assistants often juggle both clinical and clerical tasks.

We're just getting the template ready for you, just a second left.

Tips to help you write your Dental Assistant resume in 2024

   showcase patient care skills.

Since dental assistants frequently interact with patients, it's crucial to emphasize your communication and interpersonal skills. Highlight any experience that demonstrates your ability to provide comfort and reassurance to patients, manage patient flow, and maintain a clean and organized workspace.

   Highlight dental technology proficiency

As dental practices continue to adopt advanced technology, hiring managers will appreciate applicants who are well-versed in using modern dental equipment and software. Make sure to mention any experience with digital X-rays, dental practice management software, and other relevant technologies.

Skills you can include on your Dental Assistant resume

Template 2 of 10: dental assistant resume example.

Start your resume with a succinct summary that outlines your background as a dental assistant to catch the eye of hiring managers and give them an accurate impression of your personal skill set. Incorporate numerical values in the summary whenever relevant, and make sure to do the same in the body of your resume to impart an affinity for precision.

   Opening summary specifies dental assistant skills

As the background of dental assistants can vary based on their experience working alongside dentists or at the front of the office, you can orient hiring managers to your particular background by including a short summary at the start of your resume. You can opt to include the tasks and skills you have expertise in, the amount of time you've been a dental assistant, or the type or size of office(s) you've worked in.

   Uses numerical values to impart scope and scale of dental experience

Having an eye for details and accuracy is an important aspect of the clerical duties dental assistants are expected to perform. With that in mind, you should aim to use quantitative values in each of your bullet-pointed accomplishments as it will help hiring managers understand exactly how big your previous offices were, how high your satisfaction rating was, how many physicians you’re accustomed to working with, and so on.

Template 3 of 10: Certified Dental Assistant Resume Example

As a Certified Dental Assistant, you'll be an integral part of any dental practice, providing valuable support to dentists and ensuring a smooth patient experience. When crafting your resume, it's essential to showcase your expertise in dental procedures, patient care, and office management. Keep in mind that the dental field is continually evolving, with advancements in technology and shifts towards more patient-centric care. Employers are looking for dental assistants who are adaptable and committed to staying current on industry trends. In your resume, emphasize your technical skills, certifications, and experience working as a dental assistant. Also, highlight your ability to work well with patients of all ages and backgrounds, as well as your strong communication skills. Your resume should demonstrate your ability to effectively manage your time and multitask in a busy dental practice while maintaining a high standard of patient care.

Tips to help you write your Certified Dental Assistant resume in 2024

   showcase your certifications.

As a Certified Dental Assistant, your resume should highlight your relevant certifications, such as your Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) certification, radiology certification, or any additional dental assisting licensures. Include these in a dedicated "Certifications" section to demonstrate your expertise and qualifications.

   Emphasize infection control skills

Dental practices prioritize maintaining a sterile environment, and employers value dental assistants who are diligent in infection control protocols. Include any OSHA or HIPAA training you've received, and mention your experience in maintaining a safe and clean workspace within the dental practice.

Skills you can include on your Certified Dental Assistant resume

Template 4 of 10: certified dental assistant resume example.

Certified dental assistants have less formal education than registered dental assistants, but will generally be handling the same role at both the front and back of the dentist office. Their duties include entering medical records and scheduling appointments as well as reviewing dental procedures with patients. You can emphasize your experience in the role by listing your skills in a skill bank, along with a list of your certifications nearby. The body of your resume should support the certifications with practical experience.

   Includes skill bank to emphasize dental breadth and expertise

Hiring managers are typically pressed for time, and so a skill bank is a great way to highlight the technical tools and techniques you are familiar with. You should include the relevant software you’ve used (especially if it is field specific) and the full list of certifications you’ve attained.

   Emphasizes breadth of relevant accomplishments in the dental industry

Along with a skill bank, you should be sure that your bullet pointed accomplishments reflect the skills you’ve mastered by including a variety of dental assistant tasks for your past employers. Don’t just include the number of patients you worked with at past employers, but aim to reference your work compiling guides, performing chairside assistance, and ability to sterilize, for instance.

Template 5 of 10: Registered Dental Assistant Resume Example

As a Registered Dental Assistant (RDA), your resume should showcase your specialized skills and knowledge in dental assisting. Stay updated on industry trends to demonstrate your commitment to providing top-notch patient care. For example, highlight your knowledge of new dental technologies and how they benefit patients and dental practices. In recent years, digital dentistry has taken off, so showcasing your proficiency in using digital equipment and software can help set you apart from other applicants. It's also important to emphasize your ability to work well with others, as RDAs are essential members of the dental team. Highlight your interpersonal skills, such as empathy and active listening, which contribute to a positive patient experience and seamless communication among team members.

Tips to help you write your Registered Dental Assistant resume in 2024

   emphasize specialized skills and certifications.

As an RDA, you should list any specialized skills, certifications, and training courses you've completed that relate to dental assisting. For instance, if you've earned certifications in radiology, CPR, or infection control, make sure to include them on your resume to demonstrate your expertise and commitment to patient care.

   Showcase experience with digital dentistry tools

Highlight your experience using digital dentistry tools and equipment, such as digital X-ray machines, intraoral scanners, and dental practice management software. This shows employers that you're keeping up with technology trends and can easily adapt to a modern dental practice.

Skills you can include on your Registered Dental Assistant resume

Template 6 of 10: registered dental assistant resume example.

Registered dental assistants (RDAs) have the highest educational requirements and will handle virtually everything in a dental office except the duties of the dentist. RDAs conduct administrative and clerical duties (such as scheduling and preparing clinical spaces for patients) and clinical duties such as taking x-rays and administering topical anesthesia. Hiring managers will be looking for advanced responsibilities that have grown over time, which can be augmented through the use of strong action verbs.

   Shows progressive growth in responsibilities and positions across dental professions

As a registered dental assistant, you should be able to indicate that you have been growing in the degree of responsibility in your position over time. You can illustrate that in your resume by ensuring that your most recent position involves your most impressive accomplishments (such as performing procedures or attending professional development workshops).

   Effective use of strong action verbs relevant to the medical field

To emphasize that you are familiar with the role of dental assistant, each one of your accomplishments should begin with an appropriate action verb. You should aim to include verbs like “assisted”, “prepared”, “provided”, or “fabricated” (with others listed below) to hammer in your understanding of the position.

Template 7 of 10: Entry Level Dental Assistant Resume Example

A dental assistant facilitates many tasks within a dentist’s office. These individuals have specialized knowledge in dental health and safety. They may be responsible for administrative tasks, teeth cleanings, taking X-rays, and patient education. They may also assist the dentist in more advanced procedures such as root canals. To become a dental assistant, most hiring managers will require you to have completed a dental assisting program, which is typically 1-2 years. At the end of this course, you’ll need to get certified as a dental assistant. A bachelor’s degree is not required, though if taken in a related field, might give you a leg up. Previous experience in a dental setting, like working as a receptionist in a dentist’s office, will be attractive to hiring managers.

Tips to help you write your Entry Level Dental Assistant resume in 2024

   complete an externship to stand out as an entry level dental assistant.

An externship can be a great way to get hands-on dental assisting experience before entering the field. Your educational institution may have many externship opportunities available. Often, externships are counted toward the completion of the course as voluntary credits. Externships give you exposure and real-world training in a dental setting, which look great on an entry level resume.

   Differentiate your resume with speciality certifications or licenses

Almost all dental assistants have to pass the CDA (Certified Dental Assistant) exam. However, you can obtain speciality certifications and set yourself apart. For example, you can get a certification in orthodontic dental assisting or restorative dentistry. This diversifies your resume and can help you land jobs in more specialized sectors like orthodontics or cosmetic dentistry.

Skills you can include on your Entry Level Dental Assistant resume

Template 8 of 10: experienced dental assistant resume example.

A dental assistant facilitates several procedures within a dentist’s office. They have specialized knowledge in dental health and safety. An experienced dental assistant will be tasked with core elements of the dental assistant role, including teeth cleanings, performing X-rays, and more. An experienced dental assistant may also have other duties, like training new hygienists, assisting with more complicated procedures like oral surgery, or managing patient data. To become an experienced dental assistant, hiring managers will require that you have an educational background in dental assisting, and are a certified dental assistant. To land a role as an experienced dental assistant, you’ll need prior experience as a dental assistant with a track record of competency and excellence.

Tips to help you write your Experienced Dental Assistant resume in 2024

   highlight your successes in previous dental assistant roles.

To land a role as an experienced dental assistant, you’ll need to show hiring managers that you have valuable experience in the field. It’s important to highlight what you have excelled at in previous roles. For example, you can highlight how many patients you successfully committed to a needed course of treatment, or how you successfully secured and organized patient data.

   Get certified in dental office software like Dentrix

When recruiting for an experienced dental assistant, hiring managers will often be looking for someone who has the ability to streamline administrative operations. You can obtain certifications, such as the Dentrix certification, that provide the skills needed to proficiently use the program and how to train others on it. These certifications will make your resume stand out as they show administrative competency and the ability to teach colleagues about office software.

Skills you can include on your Experienced Dental Assistant resume

Template 9 of 10: pediatric dental assistant resume example.

Pediatric dental assistants support pediatric dentists. Though you are not likely to perform procedures on patients, you may still perform clinical tasks like sterilizing equipment, preparing patients, and giving advice to patients on oral healthcare. A lot of your time will also be spent on administrative tasks such as scheduling appointments and maintaining records. To qualify for this job, you will need a dental assistant certification at the very least. Some recruiters will also be looking for experience in dentistry as well. Take a look at this strong resume sample.

Tips to help you write your Pediatric Dental Assistant resume in 2024

   clearly list your certifications and where they were obtained..

You must be certified to work in this position and so recruiters will need to easily find your certifications in your resume. It is also important to clearly list which board or organization you got your certification from because recruiters might have ATS filters that will filter out all resumes that do not list the board certifications that they recognize.

   Have a mixture of dental and administrative tools listed.

In this position, you will be assisting with dental procedures and also performing many administrative tasks. It is therefore important to list industry standard tools for both functions. This applicant does this successfully.

Skills you can include on your Pediatric Dental Assistant resume

Template 10 of 10: lead dental assistant resume example.

As a lead dental assistant, you will be a dentist's second in command. You will assist in many of the procedures and may even perform some procedures like teeth cleaning and taking X-rays. You will also perform administrative tasks like scheduling and record keeping. Your biggest function, however, is to manage and supervise the other dental assistants. You will create schedules, supervise them during procedures, train them, monitor their performance, etc. This position requires you to be at least certified by an accredited program, but recruiters would prefer to see a diploma or degree in dentistry. Additional qualifications like a degree will also increase your chances of getting higher pay. Recruiters will also want to see that you have had successful experience as a manager or leader. Take a look at this strong resume sample.

Tips to help you write your Lead Dental Assistant resume in 2024

   use action verbs to indicate experience in your three main functions..

A lead dental assistant has three main functions: assisting the dentist, administration, and management of other assistants. Action verbs are a great way to shape your experience section to make your experience in all three functions stand out. For your assistant function use action verbs like administered or assisted. For your administrative function use action verbs like scheduled. For your management function use action verbs like trained and managed.

   List industry-specific tools.

There are particular administrative and management tools used in dental practice. Show your knowledge and expertise in the field by listing these industry-specific tools. Some of these tools include Curve Hero and Weave.

Skills you can include on your Lead Dental Assistant resume

As a hiring manager who has recruited for top dental practices like Aspen Dental, Affordable Dentures & Implants, and Western Dental & Orthodontics, I've seen countless resumes for dental assistant positions. In this article, I'll share insider tips on how to make your dental assistant resume stand out and increase your chances of landing an interview.

   Highlight your dental-specific skills

Employers want to see that you have the specific skills required for the dental assistant role. Make sure to highlight your expertise in:

• Chairside assisting
• Dental instrument sterilization
• Taking and developing dental radiographs
• Preparing dental materials (e.g., cements, amalgams, composites)

Don't just list these skills; provide specific examples of how you've used them in your work experience section. For instance:

• Assisted dentists with procedures such as fillings, extractions, and crown placements
• Maintained strict infection control protocols, ensuring proper sterilization of instruments

   Showcase your patient care experience

Dental assistants play a crucial role in patient care and comfort. Highlight your experience in:

• Educating patients on oral hygiene practices
• Helping anxious patients feel at ease
• Taking and recording patient medical histories
• Providing post-operative care instructions

Use specific examples to illustrate your patient care skills:

• Developed rapport with patients, easing anxiety and ensuring comfort during procedures
• Provided clear and concise post-operative care instructions to patients and caregivers

   Include relevant certifications and training

Dental practices often prefer candidates with specific certifications or training. Be sure to include:

• Dental Assistant Certification (e.g., CDA, RDA, EFDA)
• CPR and First Aid certifications
• Continuing education courses related to dentistry

If you have multiple certifications, consider creating a separate 'Certifications' section to make them easy for employers to find. For example:

Certifications: - Certified Dental Assistant (CDA), Dental Assisting National Board, 2019 - CPR and First Aid Certified, American Red Cross, 2020

   Tailor your resume to the specific job

One common mistake job seekers make is using the same generic resume for every application. Instead:

• Sending the same resume to every dental practice without customization
• Including irrelevant skills or experience not related to the dental assistant role

To make your resume stand out, tailor it to the specific job:

• Read the job description carefully and highlight key skills and requirements
• Emphasize the skills and experience that directly match what the employer is seeking
• Use similar language and terminology as the job posting

By customizing your resume for each application, you show the employer that you're a strong fit for their specific needs.

   Quantify your accomplishments

When possible, use numbers and metrics to quantify your accomplishments and make your resume more impactful. For example:

• Assisted with an average of 30 patient procedures per day
• Maintained a 95% patient satisfaction rating based on post-visit surveys
• Trained 5 new dental assistants on office procedures and protocols

Quantifying your achievements helps employers better understand the scope and impact of your work. It also helps your resume stand out from those that only include generic descriptions of responsibilities.

   Proofread and format for readability

Before submitting your resume, make sure to:

• Carefully proofread for spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors
• Use a clear, easy-to-read font like Arial or Calibri
• Organize your resume with clear headings and bullet points
• Keep it concise, typically one to two pages

A well-formatted, error-free resume shows attention to detail and professionalism. Consider asking a friend or family member to review your resume for any mistakes or areas for improvement.

By following these tips and tailoring your resume to showcase your dental-specific skills and experience, you'll be well on your way to landing your next dental assistant role.

Writing Your Dental Assistant Resume: Section By Section

  header, 1. put your name on its own line.

Your name should be the most prominent part of your header. Put it on its own line at the top, in a font size that's larger than the rest of your resume (18-24pt is a good range).

Here's an example of what your name line might look like:

• John Smith, CDA

Avoid adding labels or extra details on the same line as your name:

• John Smith - Certified Dental Assistant, 123 Main St, New York, NY 10001

2. Include essential contact details

After your name, add your key contact information:

• Phone number
• Professional email address
• Location (City, State)
• LinkedIn URL (optional)

You can put these details on one line, separated by vertical lines or bullet points to keep your header compact:

[email protected] | 212-555-1234 | New York, NY | linkedin.com/in/john-smith

Avoid cluttering your header with personal details or a full mailing address, which hiring managers don't need at this stage:

• 123 Main St, Apt 2B, New York, NY 10001 | Birthday: Jan 1, 1985 | Marital Status: Single

3. Showcase your dental assistant job title

If you're an experienced dental assistant, consider adding your job title as the last line of your header. This quickly communicates your level and area of expertise. For example:

John Smith, CDA [email protected] | 212-555-1234 | New York, NY Senior Dental Assistant

However, avoid adding multiple job titles or stuffing your header with keywords, which can look cluttered and spammy:

• Dental Assistant | Dental Hygienist | Dental Receptionist | Billing Coordinator
• Dental Assistant with skills in patient care, X-rays, dental instruments, EagleSoft, Dentrix...

Keep your header clean and stick to one clear job title. You'll have space to elaborate on your skills and experience in other resume sections.

  Summary

A resume summary for a dental assistant position is optional, but can be a valuable addition if you have relevant experience or skills that set you apart from other candidates. While an objective statement is outdated and should be avoided, a well-crafted summary can provide context and highlight your most impressive qualifications. Keep your summary concise and tailored to the specific dental assistant role you're targeting.

To learn how to write an effective resume summary for your Dental Assistant resume, or figure out if you need one, please read Dental Assistant Resume Summary Examples , or Dental Assistant Resume Objective Examples .

1. Highlight your dental experience and skills

When crafting your dental assistant resume summary, focus on your most relevant experience and skills. Hiring managers want to see that you have the necessary qualifications to excel in the role.

Rather than using generic statements like this:

Experienced dental assistant looking for a new opportunity. Skilled in various dental procedures and patient care.

Quantify your experience and highlight specific skills:

Certified Dental Assistant with 5+ years of experience in fast-paced dental practices. Skilled in chair-side assisting, dental impressions, and patient education. Proficient in digital X-rays and dental charting software.

2. Showcase your achievements and impact

In addition to listing your skills and experience, use your summary to showcase your achievements and the impact you've made in previous roles. This helps you stand out from other candidates and demonstrates your value to potential employers.

• Assisted dentists with various procedures
• Provided excellent patient care

Instead, quantify your achievements and highlight specific results:

• Assisted in 20+ dental procedures daily, ensuring efficient and high-quality patient care
• Implemented a new patient education program, increasing patient satisfaction scores by 15%

3. Tailor your summary to the specific role

To make your resume summary more effective, tailor it to the specific dental assistant position you're applying for. Research the practice and the job description to identify the key skills and qualifications they're looking for.

For example, if the job description emphasizes pediatric dentistry experience, highlight your relevant skills:

Compassionate Dental Assistant with 3+ years of experience in pediatric dentistry. Skilled in creating a friendly and welcoming environment for young patients and their families. Proficient in behavior management techniques and patient education.

By tailoring your summary to the specific role, you demonstrate your fit for the position and increase your chances of catching the hiring manager's attention.

  Experience

The work experience section is the heart of your resume. It's where you show the impact you've made at your previous dental assistant jobs. Avoid simply listing your daily responsibilities. Instead, think about your proudest accomplishments and the key skills you leveraged to achieve them.

Here are some tips to make your work experience section stand out to hiring managers and paint a memorable picture of what you bring to the table:

1. Highlight your clinical skills and specialties

Dental assistants play a crucial role in supporting dentists with a variety of procedures. Highlight the specific clinical skills and specialties you've developed, such as:

• Assisted with dental implants, veneers, and teeth whitening procedures
• Specialized in pediatric dentistry, helping young patients feel at ease during cleanings and treatments
• Expertise in taking digital dental x-rays and impressions using iTero scanner

Mentioning the procedures and patient populations you have experience with helps employers quickly see if you're the right fit for their practice.

2. Showcase your impact with numbers

When possible, quantify your achievements to give a concrete sense of your impact. Compare this:

• Responsible for sterilizing dental instruments and managing inventory
• Implemented a new inventory management system, reducing supply costs by 15% and ensuring 100% adherence to sterilization protocols for 50+ instruments

The second example paints a much more vivid picture by including specific numbers. No need to quantify everything - focus on your most impressive data points.

3. Feature promotions and added responsibilities

Highlight any promotions, title changes, or times you took on additional responsibilities, as these indicate strong performance and trust from your employer. For example:

Dental Assistant II, 2019-2022 Dental Assistant, 2016-2019

This shows you advanced in your role over time. Even if your title didn't change, you can call out how you expanded your scope, like:

• Took on additional responsibility of training new dental assistants on clinical procedures, terminology, and patient care

4. Demonstrate your soft skills through examples

In addition to clinical abilities, dental assistants need strong communication, organization, and customer service skills. Weave these in naturally by showing how you applied them. For instance:

• Built rapport with patients, clearly explaining procedures to help them feel informed and at ease
• Reorganized supply closet and treatment rooms to maximize efficiency, reducing prep time by 5 minutes per patient

This is more effective than simply listing soft skills without context, like:

• Communication skills
• Organizational abilities

  Education

The education section of your dental assistant resume should be concise and highlight your relevant training and certifications. This section is especially important if you are a recent graduate or have limited work experience. Here are some tips to help you craft an effective education section:

1. List your highest level of education first

Start with your most recent or highest level of education, such as a dental assistant diploma or associate degree. Include the name of the institution, the degree or diploma earned, and the graduation date.

Associate of Applied Science in Dental Assisting XYZ Community College, Anytown, USA Graduated: May 2023

2. Include relevant coursework and awards

If you are a recent graduate, you can include relevant coursework, clinical experience, or academic achievements to showcase your knowledge and skills. This can help you stand out from other candidates who may have similar educational backgrounds.

• Completed coursework in dental anatomy, radiology, and infection control
• Received Dean's List honors for three consecutive semesters

3. Highlight your dental assistant certification

If you have earned a dental assistant certification, such as the Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) credential from the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB), make sure to include it in your education section. This certification demonstrates your commitment to the profession and can set you apart from other candidates.

Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) Earned: August 2022

4. Keep it brief for experienced professionals

If you are a seasoned dental assistant with several years of experience, your education section should be brief and focus on your highest level of education and most relevant certifications. Avoid listing outdated or irrelevant information that may distract from your professional experience.

Example of what not to include:

• Online course in basic Microsoft Office skills
• High school diploma, class of 1995

Instead, keep it concise:

Associate of Applied Science in Dental Assisting XYZ Community College

Action Verbs For Dental Assistant Resumes

Dental assistants are expected to be versatile in their ability to assist both physicians and patients, so selecting a range of action verbs to utilize in your resume will help showcase your experience. Along with leading your bullet points with strong action verbs when appropriate, you should work them into the body of the accomplishment as added emphasis.

• Coordinated
• Administered

For more related action verbs, visit Medical Action Verbs .

For a full list of effective resume action verbs, visit Resume Action Verbs .

Action Verbs for Dental Assistant Resumes

Skills for dental assistant resumes.

The skill set for dental assistants will vary between individuals based on their experience, but hiring managers will generally be looking for key skills that will enable you to function effectively in the position. On the left, we’ve listed the most common skills that dental assistants are expected to have. As dental assistants rely on specific technical skills and software to conduct a portion of their duties, you should aim to include a skill bank on your resume to give hiring managers an easy way to determine your capability. Additionally, starting your resume with a summary that incorporates key skills will help you stand out to hiring managers and make it past automatic screening tools.

• Dental Assisting
• Dental Care
• Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)
• Patient Education
• Restorative Dentistry
• Cosmetic Dentistry
• Infection Control
• Oral Surgery
• Sterilization
• Coronal Polishing
• Dental Software
• Dental Imaging
• Orthodontics
• Teeth Whitening
• Endodontics

How To Write Your Skills Section On a Dental Assistant Resumes

You can include the above skills in a dedicated Skills section on your resume, or weave them in your experience. Here's how you might create your dedicated skills section:

Skills Word Cloud For Dental Assistant Resumes

This word cloud highlights the important keywords that appear on Dental Assistant job descriptions and resumes. The bigger the word, the more frequently it appears on job postings, and the more 'important' it is.

How to use these skills?

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• Dental Assistant Resume Example
• Certified Dental Assistant Resume Example
• Registered Dental Assistant Resume Example
• Entry Level Dental Assistant Resume Example
• Experienced Dental Assistant Resume Example
• Pediatric Dental Assistant Resume Example
• Lead Dental Assistant Resume Example
• Tips for Dental Assistant Resumes
• Skills and Keywords to Add
• All Resume Examples
• Dental Assistant CV Examples
• Dental Assistant Cover Letter
• Dental Assistant Interview Guide
• Explore Alternative and Similar Careers

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Home / Resume Examples / Dental Assistant Resume Sample

Dental Assistant Resume Example and Advice from HR Pros

According to the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics , the employment of dental assistants will increase by up to 8% from 2021 to 2031 — which is substantially faster than most other professions. Over the next decade, over 56,400 openings per year are projected for dental assistants.

Building a career as a dental assistant can give you a stable income and lots of options for professional growth.

The average salary of a Dental Assistant in the United States is $44,741, according to Salary.com . Salaries can range from $39,942 to $49,273 and depend on your expertise and experience.

To get the job you want, you will need to have a powerful resume and cover letter combo. And this is what we are looking into today: how to write a dental assistant resume.

We will be covering the following points:

• What the standard job description for a dental assistant looks like
• What you should include in your dental assistant resume
• A dental assistant resume template for you to use as a base to create your own resume
• Tips for writing a strong resume — and more
• Let’s get started.

To learn more about how to write a dental assistant cover letter, check out our post on Dental assistant cover letter example and Advice from HR Pros .

Dental assistant job description

Dental assistants help dentists perform dental procedures. Some of the most common responsibilities of a dental assistant include:

• Sterilizing dental tools
• Performing X-rays
• Patient care
• Record keeping
• Scheduling appointments
• Assisting with patient billing and more

Your specific tasks and responsibilities as a dental assistant will depend on the dental office you work for.

To get a well-paying position as a dental assistant, you will need to prepare a strong resume. More on this below.

How to write a dental assistant resume?

Below, we will look into more detail how to write a dental assistant resume in the reverse-chronological format. This resume format emphasizes work experience and is most suitable for those who have worked at several dental offices prior to the new job application. If you are a recent graduate, you may prefer to use a skill-based resume. You can learn about the different resume format options here — Top Resume Formats: Tips and Examples of 3 Common Formats .

There are several sections a dental assistant resume should include to provide the hiring manager with all the necessary information. These include:

Name and contact details

Your resume should start with your contact information. This will let the hiring manager know whose resume they are reading and have your contact details in front of them if they need to get in touch with you for more information.

Here’s what to include in your resume contact details:

• Full name and educational and/or professional credentials.
• City of residence (optional), phone number and email. Make sure you use a professional email address such as [email protected] instead of something more informal. If needed, create a separate email box for sending out job applications.
• It’s also a good idea to add links to your website, online portfolio or professional social media like LinkedIn. This is a great way for your potential employer to get some additional information about you that they won’t find on your resume.

Professional summary

After your contact details, add a brief professional summary. This can include a short description of what you are best at and a list of your most valued skills that will be relevant to the job you are applying for.

Professional experience

Next, add your professional experience. List the places you’ve worked at in reverse- chronological order, starting from the most recent position. When describing each position, mention the name of the company that employed you, your title and your core responsibilities and professional achievements.

This section should mention all relevant degrees, courses and other qualifications, starting with the highest degree or qualification. Thus, if you graduated from university, there’s no need to mention you finished high school.

You can also include any other relevant certification you’ve received. With that, keep this section short and don’t mention courses that you may have taken as a hobby that aren’t relevant to the job. Furthermore, if your list of courses and certifications is long, put it in the Additional information section, but if you took only one relevant to the job course, you can mention it in this section.

Additional information

This section is a great opportunity to add any other information that you believe might help your case. For instance, you can elaborate on additional skills you have that may be useful in your job as a dental assistant, mention internships you’ve done, foreign languages you speak and more.

Tips for writing a dental assistant resume

Now that we’ve covered the structure of your resume, let’s explore some best practices for making it the best it can be.

• Keep your resume short and to the point. Most HR managers agree that your resume shouldn’t be over a page long. If it is longer, there is a high chance the hiring manager will just scan through it and miss out on the important information you want to convey.
• Highlight the key points in your resume so that they “jump off” the page. To do so, you can use the bold font or bullet points. Don’t go overboard, though. Keep your resume simple and don’t use “informal” fonts, bright colors or excessive visuals.
• Keep your resume as specific as possible. This is not the place to generalize and write abstract ideas. Use numbers, references to specific projects and company names.
• Unless otherwise specified, you should use the PDF format for your resume. This is a standard resume and cover letter format that will be readable on most systems and devices.
• Before hitting “send” on your resume, make sure it’s free of spelling errors and typos. You can run your resume through one of the automated spell checkers online or simply go through the final document yourself very carefully.

Dental assistant resume example

Summing things up

• To apply for the position you want as a dental assistant, you will need a strong resume that highlights your best features, professional experience, skills and expertise.
• Your resume should include the following sections: contact details, professional introduction, experience, education and additional information (optional).
• Make your resume short and to the point. There is no need to add general information. Instead, try to be as specific as possible.
• Most importantly, your resume should be tailored to the position you are applying for. Re-read the job description you are responding to and pick out the main keywords used to describe the main requirements and responsibilities.

Learn about how to write a resume .

Dental Assistant cover letter

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Are you worried that you don’t have the chops to create a great dental assistant resume? Later in this article, we’ll be showing you a perfect resume for a dental assistant. Not only that, but we’ll also share how you can create one just as good by yourself. It’s the perfect way to land that esteemed job in dentistry.

When you read through this guide, you’ll get to feast your eyes on a dental assistant resume that is better than 90% of the rest you’ll find on the Internet. We’ll also give you tips and tricks to use to ensure you pull in more interviews than your competitors. You’ll learn what achievements and skills to list, as well as how to describe your experience to get the job you want.

The job search can be rough sometimes, but it’s much easier with a good dental assistant resume. And it doesn’t take long hours to build one. All you need is a bit of time and some excellent guidance. We’ll provide you with the latter so you can focus on the process of getting a job that you love going to every single day.

Dental assistants have an important job. They spend every shift supporting dentists and offering a positive experience for patients. Whether you’re creating a new dental assistant resume or updating the one you have, you’ll find tons of writing tips, a resume sample, and more to get you going on your journey.

Dental Assistant Resume Sample

A dental assistant does technical work, customer service work, and so much more. It isn’t a position where you spend the entire day doing the same thing hour after hour. You need to be able to work both supervised and unsupervised while having strong computer skills and excellent organization. Your resume needs to convey all of those things.

One of the things to consider is the structure of your professional document. That’s where dental assistant resume examples come in. Below you’ll find an example of a dental assistant resume that you can use throughout this guide to make sure yours is sure to turn heads when it lands in the office. Take a look at it and get an idea of what you’re going for.

Download This Resume Example

Create your professional resume now

When you look at different dental assistant resume examples, you’ll see that many of them have things in common. However, you don’t want to just copy and paste what you see. You can use sample dental assistant resumes as a guide, but you shouldn’t lean on them for all the information.

It doesn’t matter if you’re applying as a senior or junior dental assistant, you need to customize things on every level possible. For instance, in the resume above, you’d change the contact information, make the resume objective match your accomplishments, put your own experience, education, and skills in, and swap out the references.

You can see in the sample dental assistant resume PDF that the applicant has an opening statement that fits his job desires. This is followed by information about his experience, degrees, certificates, and skills. The resume ends with a set of references who are sure to say good things about the applicant.

You’ll notice that you can easily read this dental assistant resume from top to bottom. It has a professional tone, but it still feels conversational. This is the type of format that lets you tell your story and prove you’d do great in a specific role.

The resume shows dedication to dentistry, boosts confidence and is grammatically correct. Now let’s look into how to structure, write, edit, and build a full dental assistant resume.

How to Write a Good Resume for a Dental Assistant in 2024: Full Guide to Registered Dental Assistant Resumes

The dental assistant duties resume you just looked at is a great example of what you want to create. However, it could be intimidating to look at and think about building it on your own. While a professional resume writer handled the sample, that doesn’t mean you can’t do it on your own. We’ll give you the details you need to create a resume just as good as the one above.

We recommend using the dental assistant job description for the resume. There are a couple of good reasons for this. The first is that when you read over the job description several times, you’ll see keywords that are important to the employer. When you incorporate this into your resume, it will show you’re a good choice for the position.

The second reason to keep the job description close is because of applicant tracking systems. This is a kind of software that is often used to look over the resume format and contents. They know what an employer wants and look for those things throughout various dental assistant resumes. If yours hits the mark, it moves on to a hiring manager.

While you build a dental assistant resume, there are a few sections you shouldn’t forget to add. These generally include:

·       Your contact information

·       A dental assistant resume summary

·       Your work history

·       Education

·       Skills

·       And a set of references

Start by making these six major sections and the titles you find for them. Once you have a basic resume ready to fill out, we’ll share details about each of the sections. Keep reading to get even more tips for an excellent dental assistant resume.

Section #1: Contact Information

The first thing a certified dental assistant needs to add to a resume is their contact information. No matter where you’re applying, you’ll have a variety of duties. You want the employer to know you can handle them all – but first, you need to introduce yourself. This section is where you shake the hand of the hiring manager (virtually) before you show off your skills.

Contact Information Example

You can see above that the contact information section is a simple one. It doesn’t have any information about your chairside skills, but there will be time for that in later sections. For now, the applicant makes their details clear from name to email address.

If your resume is an impressive one (which it will be with the tips in this guide), this section ensures the employer can reach out to you for an interview or other steps in the hiring process. The example above offers that, and in a few lines, you can do the same thing.

How to Format This Section

Recruiters looking for a dental assistant want to see a simple contact section. There’s no need to add a ton of extras, such as your LinkedIn profile link, unless the application asks for it. Instead, make sure you have your name, mailing address, and two ways to contact you.

The most common methods of contact will be email and phone. Use those or select something that works better for you. Formatting is minimal here. Simply make sure you use bold as needed, so things stand out. You can place the contact information on the sidebar or at the top of the resume.

Section #2: Resume Objective

Whether you’re making an entry-level dental assistant resume or a pediatric dental assistant resume for years of experience, you need a resume objective. This is essential and has to be written to the specific employer. It’s a short paragraph that acts as an elevator pitch. It should give them a reason to reach out to you.

Resume Objective Example for a Beginner Dental Assistant Resume

Maybe you don’t have years of experience but instead passion and excitement for dental assisting. Your resume objective should focus on the skills you do have but don’t be afraid to convey how excited you are about moving into the field. Add any accomplishments you have to round off the section.

Resume Objective Example for an Experienced Dental Assistant Resume

For someone experienced, a professional resume objective is even easier to create. Think back to the achievement you are the proudest of. These should make up the bulk of your resume as long as they fit the job description. Add numbers and other quantifying information whenever possible to show the impact you have had.

One of the things that hiring managers will focus on with your dental assistant resume is the resume objective. It’s an easy way to distinguish you from the other candidates. The formatting is simple here since it’s a block of text. What you want to do is make your writing the star of the show in this case.

A short paragraph is what you want to create here. Use no more than four sentences. Make sure you dig deep and give this your best. Think about the biggest things you’ve accomplished and convey them with authority. You can look at the image above to get an idea of how you might do this.

Section #3: Professional Work Experience

Experience as a dental assistant on a resume can go a long way. After all, you want to show an employer what you’re skilled with. However, this section is crucial even for a dental assistant resume with no experience. Focus on showing the positions you’ve had in the past that are similar to the one you want.

Professional Work Experience Example

Maybe you’re a Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) from the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB). You understand how to work with patient information, dental tools, and other things related to the job. This is where you put that in perspective by showing the jobs you’ve held in the past.

For those with less experience in the industry, don’t let that stop you. Other jobs can be added as needed. Simply add in the skills you used that match the ones for the job you want. You’ll find that getting creative and thinking hard will give you connections you might not have immediately considered.

This is the first section where you’re going to focus on formatting beyond the simplest aspects. You want this to look good since it will be the bulk of your dental assistant resume. The first thing to consider is the style. Most will go with reverse-chronological, which means you start with your most recent position and go backward.

The header for the job will tell your role, where you worked, and when you were there. Underneath is where you dig into the role a bit deeper. Use a set of bullet points to add the responsibilities you had at the job. This is a good spot to incorporate keywords from the job description.

Section #4: Educational Background

In addition to experience, hiring managers want to learn more about your educational background. This applies to a resume for a dental assistant with no experience or someone with decades of experience. Here you’ll share where you’ve gone to school and what degrees or certifications you might have.

Educational Background Example

Whether you’re creating a dental assistant student resume or want to show off your certs from the Dental Assisting National Board, this is where you’ll do it. The example above gives you an idea of what this looks like for someone who has a degree and two certifications.

In some cases, a high school diploma may be listed on the dental assistant's resume. However, this is only required if you have no university degree. Otherwise, make sure all of your education relevant to the position is included to complement the information about your experience. This gives a fuller picture of who you are as a candidate for a dentistry position.

As a dental hygienist or another dental assistant, the formatting here is similar to the experience section. However, it’s generally a bit simpler. The basic information to include for degrees include the name of the school, the degree earned, and the date the degree was acquired.

If you have a limited employment history, feel free to add extra details about your degrees. You can add in your GPA, special projects, honors, awards, or other things that show your skills and abilities. Otherwise, put things in reverse-chronological order. You can also add any degrees you are currently pursuing at the top.

Section #5: Skills

There are a ton of dental assistant resume skills you can add. There are soft skills and hard skills, interpersonal skills, communication skills, technical skills, and more. It might lead you to wonder what you should focus on for your dental assistant resume. The answer is a mix of all of these things. Both customer-oriented skills and skills related to dentistry are good choices.

Skills Example

Above, you can see an example of the skills section. Of course, not everyone is going to have experience with the same things. One person might be focused on oral health, while another is great at dental procedures, and a third might be excellent at things like scheduling appointments.

Think about the skills you are best at and then use those. A list of some of the most common choices includes:

·       Dental x-rays

·       Sterilization

·       Patient care

·       Dental practices

·       Orthodontic skills

·       Healthcare

·       Dental equipment

·       Fluoride treatment

·       Patient records

·       Oral hygiene

·       Dental care

·       Dental instruments

·       Infection control

·       Dexterity

·       Fillings

Choose a set of skills that best represent what you can do, and that is useful for the job you want. That’s all there is to this section in the end.

For the skills section, the format will be a bit different from others. You don’t want a paragraph of information since that’s hard to read and leads to skimming. Instead, this is usually set up as a list. You can choose the way it looks, but the example above is a good start for this section.

You also need to be sure that you don’t list too many skills. Five to 10 is pretty much the maximum amount. Don’t add so many that the resume ends up longer than a page long. Also, be sure you clarify your proficiency with each of the skills you add.

Section #6: References

A dental office is going to want to see some references. This supports your application and makes it easier to gain an interview. Most references will be precious managers and bosses who know your abilities. You can also choose to add a personal reference but avoid friends and family members.

References Example

This applicant has chosen three references aware of their skills in office management. You can add more, but it’s best to stay at five as a maximum. The example shows you what sort of information is recommended to add for each of the three to five people you choose to include in your dental assistant resume.

Once you format this section, you’ll be close to the best resume you could make. This is another easy area to format. You want to include a few basic points for each reference. Their name and place of employment should be included. Then it’s best to add “available on request” in place of personal contact information. Only send that out when requested to avoid any issues with privacy.

Other Dental Resume Templates

One of the easiest ways to streamline creating the resume of your dream is through the use of dental-assisting resume templates. Instead of going through the process of creating a resume format, it’s all done for you. Pick one you like, add in your professional information, and you’re good to go. It’s honestly that easy.

Choose the dental assistant resume template we’ve showcased in this guide, or select something else if you prefer. The resume templates below are for various professions but can easily be altered to fit the needs of someone going out for a dental assisting position.

·   Dental Receptionist Resume

·  Academic Resume

·  Entry-Level Administrative Assistant Resume

·  Warehouse Resume

·  Acting Resume

When you sign up to use our resume builder, you can also totally customize your resume to meet your needs. Select a format, colors, and whatever information you’d like to share. From there, download it as a PDF for a professional look, and you’re ready to move on to the next step.

Final Points on Writing a Dental Assisting Resume

No matter where you’ve worked in the past or how much experience you have, getting an interview is all about the perfect resume for a dental assistant, along with an eye-catching application and cover letter. Being consistent is an important part of the process. It makes it more likely you’ll be considered for a position.

Above, you have a step-by-step guide for creating an amazing dental assistant resume. This is a great template to use, but it’s important to customize it for the exact position you want. Even adding the company name to the resume objective and adding in some keywords can go a long way.

Now that you have a great resume and you feel close to the finish line, make sure you follow the tips below:

· Check that the resume flows down the page and is simple to read.

· Be sure the background of the resume doesn’t clash with the text. Simple is best.

· Read the document multiple times to make changes. Visually inspect for errors and then use Grammarly to check for anything you might have missed.

· Ensure the dental assistant's resume is professional, well-spaced, and organized.

· Consider reading the resume out loud to get a feel for any rough areas. If everything sounds good, you’re ready to move forward.

If you’ve followed the general tips above, the guide for each section, and the above recommendations, you’ll have the best chance of getting that interview that you hope for. For the easiest method, use a resume template like the one in this guide to make sure your resume has all the relevant information while being organized and neat. Good luck!

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Entry-Level Dental Assistant Resume Examples and Templates for 2024

• Resume Examples
• Resume Text Examples

How To Write an Entry-Level Dental Assistant Resume

• Entry-Level
• Senior-Level

Entry-Level Dental Assistant Text-Only Resume Templates and Examples

Amar Singh (123) 456-7890 [email protected] 123 Carpenter Street, Philadelphia, PA, 12345

A Certified Dental Assistant with entry-level experience specializing in patient care, communication, administrative support, and HIPAA compliance. Adept at coordinating with dentists and office teams to enhance the delivery of dental care services to patients.

Professional Experience

Dental Assistant, Smile Makers, Philadelphia, PA June 2021 – Present

• Provide support to a team of three Dentists in delivering dental care services to patients, including performing teeth cleanings and gathering patient medical history
• Conduct X-rays to identify dental issues and create medical documentation for dentists to evaluate patient condition and determine appropriate treatment plans
• Ensure compliance with Covid-19 safety protocols, oversee sanitation of operating rooms, and maintain medical equipment to prevent infection and ensure optimal functionality

Administrative Assistant, South Philly Dental, Philadelphia, PA May 2020 – June 2021

• Fielded phone inquiries from new and existing patients, conducted scheduling for appointments, obtained outstanding payments, and performed intake interviews prior to appointments to obtain patient data and medical history
• Conducted data entry for health insurance benefits, filed appeals, and submitted claims to insurance agencies to secure payment for services

Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) Dental Assisting Philadelphia Community College, Philadelphia, PA September 2019 – June 2021

• Dental Care Services
• Administrative Support
• Patient Care
• Communication
• Inventory Management

Certifications

• Certified Dental Assistant, DANB, State of Pennsylvania, 2021
• Radiation Health and Safety Certificate (RHS), DANB, State of Pennsylvania, 2021

Aliya Jackson (123) 456-7890 [email protected] 123 Bridge Street, Boston, MA 12345

A Certified Dental Assistant with entry-level experience specializing in intra-oral techniques, patient care, dentistry, and OSHA safety. A strong background in providing administrative and medical support to dental teams to ensure patient safety and satisfaction.

Dental Assistant, Smile Pros, Boston, MA June 2021 – Present

• Deliver dental care services to patients under the supervision of dentists, including using suction hoses to assist with various dental procedures
• Ensure compliance with Covid-19 safety guidelines and infection prevention procedures, including sterilizing instruments and operating rooms
• Perform X-rays to aid dentists in identifying cavities, decay, and long-term dental issues and provide support for tooth extractions, fillings, and root canals

Administrative Assistant, Rosenbaum Dental Office, Boston, MA May 2020 – June 2021

• Managed patient scheduling, fielded phone inquiries, performed data entry for customer insurance information, benefits, and claims, and contacted patients to create payment plans and discuss outstanding balances
• Coordinated with dentists, certified dental assistants, and dental hygienists to manage schedules, and change appointment times
• Managed purchase orders for equipment

Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) Dental Assisting Boston College, Boston, MA September 2019 – June 2021

• Intraoral Procedures
• Medical Support
• OSHA Safety
• Certified Dental Assistant (CDA), DANB, 2021
• Radiation Health and Safety Certificate (RHS), DANB, 2021

Sarah Johnson (123) 456-7890 [email protected] 123 Windermere Rd., Seattle, WA 12345

A Certified Dental Assistant with entry-level experience specializing in patient education, dental care, OSHA safety, and restorative dentistry. A proven track record of interfacing with diverse patient populations to deliver education on dental care procedures and hygiene.

Dental Assistant, Seattle Dental Associates, Seattle, WA June 2021 – Present

• Provide dental care support for cleanings, fillings, root canals, and tooth extractions, educate patients on dental procedures and hygiene best practices for long-term care
• Communicate with patients to ensure comfort and ease anxiety during procedures involving needles and drills, resulting in a patient satisfaction rating of 89%
• Build relationships with patients and provide empathetic care during painful procedures and cosmetic dentistry operations

Administrative Assistant, Dr. Marcus Campbell Dental Office, Seattle, WA May 2020 – June 2021

• Interfaced with patients, dentists, CDAs, and dental hygienists, managed appointments, coordinated patient flow, and ensured the efficiency of office operations
• Managed phone inquiries from existing patients and new customers, resolved issues related to billing and insurance claims, and created patient profiles in the office database

Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) Dental Assisting Seattle Central College, Seattle, WA September 2019 – June 2021

• Patient Education
• Restorative Dentistry

To write a compelling entry-level dental assistant resume, you need to showcase your knowledge of oral medicine and ability to provide quality care to patients. Highlight your experience educating patients on dental procedures and collaborating with medical and office teams to enhance patient satisfaction. This guide provides valuable tips and insights to help you craft an accomplishment-driven resume and land your next job interview.

1. Write a dynamic profile summarizing your entry-level dental assistant qualifications

Job seekers have a minimal window to make a strong first impression. Due to the sheer volume of applicants, hiring managers often won’t have the time to read through every document thoroughly. To grab the hiring manager’s attention, write a strong professional summary at the top of your resume that encapsulates key skill sets the organization is looking for.

In the example below, the candidate draws attention to their expertise in patient education, restorative dentistry, and OSHA safety, all of which are essential skill sets that dental offices look for during the hiring process.

A Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) with entry-level experience specializing in patient education, dental care, OSHA safety, and restorative dentistry. A proven track record of interfacing with diverse patient populations to deliver education on dental care procedures and hygiene.

2. Add a compelling section featuring your entry-level dental assistant experience

As a dental assistant, one of your primary responsibilities is communicating with patients during medical procedures. Keeping patients calm and comfortable is important during dental operations, so be sure to highlight your pleasant chairside manner.

However, providing insights into your knowledge of dental procedures, regulations, and medical equipment is also important. There are instances to avoid jargon, but this isn’t one of those places. Referencing specific procedures and tools can help prove to the hiring manager you’re knowledgeable despite your relative lack of experience.

In the example below, the job seeker effectively demonstrates their industry knowledge at the entry level by specifying specific medical procedures they supported and the instruments they utilized. They also emphasize their experience interfacing effectively with patients, providing education on procedures, and improving patient satisfaction scores:

Dental Assistant, Smile Pros, Boston, MA | June 2021 – present

• Deliver dental care services to patients under the supervision of dentists, including utilizing suction hoses to provide assistance for various dental procedures
• Ensure compliance with COVID-19 safety guidelines and infection prevention procedures, including sterilizing instruments and operating rooms

3. Include entry-level dental assistant-related education and certifications

While certification may not always be required at this level, it’s always a great way to set yourself apart from a crowd of potential applicants. Without a certification, you’ll also be limited in terms of your job responsibilities, which could stunt your career growth. The CDA and Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) are both strong options to consider when pursuing entry-level roles.

Depending on their state and scope of practice, dental assistants may also obtain additional certifications in specific areas such as nitrous oxide monitoring, coronal polishing, sealant application, and orthodontic assisting.

These certifications may require completing additional courses, exams, or clinical hours. For example, in Texas, dental assistants who want to monitor nitrous oxide must complete a course approved by the Texas State Board of Dental Examiners and obtain a Nitrous Oxide Monitoring certificate.

• [Degree Name]
• [School Name], [City, State Abbreviation] | [Graduation Year]
• Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) Dental Assisting
• Boston College, Boston, MA | 2021
• [Certification Name], [Awarding Organization], [Completion Year]
• Certified Dental Assistant (CDA), DANB | 2021
• Radiation Health and Safety Certificate (RHS), DANB | 2021

4. List key skills and proficiencies for entry-level dental assistants

Companies rely on applicant tracking systems (ATS) to analyze resumes for specific keywords using software algorithms. If your document is missing a certain number of key terms the organization is looking for, it’s unlikely you’ll advance to the next stage of the hiring process. To mitigate this risk, incorporate keywords and dental industry terminology into your professional profile, work experience, and skills section. Below, you’ll find a list of potential key terms you may encounter during the job hunt:

How To Pick the Best Entry-Level Dental Assistant Resume Template

When selecting your template, choose a design that is easy to read and edit. Your resume should be clear, concise, and error-free. Avoid using templates that have too many colors, fonts, or graphics that might distract from your content. Use simple and consistent formatting, such as bullet points, headings, and margins. Make sure you can customize the template to fit your specific information and needs.

Frequently Asked Questions: Entry-Level Dental Assistant Resume Examples and Advice

What are common action verbs for entry-level dental assistant resumes -.

You may run short on action verbs as you build your bullet points on your resume. This can be especially challenging within the health care field, as sometimes only a limited number of verbs can describe your professional experience accurately. To help you enhance the readability of your document and keep your language fresh, we’ve compiled a list of action verbs to craft your work experience section:

How do you align your resume with an entry-level dental assistant job description? -

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , the average annual salary for dental assistants was $44,820 in May 2022, with a projected growth rate of 7% over the next decade. This occupation can open various opportunities and career paths within the dental field. To break into the industry at the entry level, you’ll need to align your resume with the job description tactically. 

Start by incorporating skill sets, industry terminology, and accomplishments that match the needs of the organization you’re applying to. Even at the entry level, where you may not have substantial hands-on work experience, you can still draw attention to key specializations demonstrating why you’re a qualified candidate.

For example, while pursuing a dental assistant position, obtaining a Radiation Health and Safety Certificate (RHS) in addition to your CDA might differentiate you from other applicants during the job search. An additional safety certification for X-rays will grab the hiring manager’s eye and may encourage you to get an interview over an applicant with limited licensure. As you craft your resume, research the organization before you apply and incorporate as many relevant skill sets as possible to help mitigate your lack of work experience. This will maximize your chances of landing your next big job opportunity.

What is the best entry-level dental assistant resume format? -

The best entry-level dental assistant resume format depends on your personal preference, experience level, and the impression you want to make on potential employers. However, most hiring managers prefer the reverse chronological format, which lists your most recent professional experience first. This format can help you emphasize your current skills and achievements and show your career progression.

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Once you’re done with your resume, a good way to finish it before sending it to your prospective employer is to add a cover letter. This is a great opportunity to speak directly to the hiring manager and make a case for why you’re the best candidate for the job.

Remember, a cover letter should be fairly succinct. Don’t exceed more than 400 words — 250 to 300 is ideal. For more information and ideas, view our dental hygienist cover letter examples .

Frank Hackett

Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW)

Frank Hackett is a professional resume writer and career consultant with over eight years of experience. As the lead editor at a boutique career consulting firm, Frank developed an innovative approach to resume writing that empowers job seekers to tell their professional stories. His approach involves creating accomplishment-driven documents that balance keyword optimization with personal branding. Frank is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) with the Professional Association of Resume Writers and Career Coaches (PAWRCC).

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Dental Assistant Resume Example (+Writing Tips)

When applying for a dental assistant position, having a well-crafted resume is essential to stand out from other applicants. A strong dental assistant resume not only showcases your qualifications and skills but also highlights your achievements and experiences in the field.

In this post, we provide you with a comprehensive dental assistant resume example that you can use as a reference when creating your own resume. We’ll also share valuable writing tips to help you effectively communicate your expertise and catch the attention of potential employers.

So, let’s dive into the world of dental assistant resumes to craft a document that effectively showcases your skills, qualifications, and accomplishments.

Dental Assistant Resume Sample

JOHN DAVIS Coppell, TX (000) 456-2345 [email protected]

❖❖ DENTAL ASSISTANT ❖❖ Chairside Assistance | Supplies Management Patient Education | Infection Control Procedures

SUMMARY Experienced dental assistant with a strong background in providing patient care and assisting dentists with various dental procedures. Skilled in dental radiography, instrument sterilization, and patient record management. Possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills, ensuring a positive and comfortable patient experience.

QUALIFICATIONS – Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) from the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) – Current dental radiology license – X-Ray and EFDA Certification – BLS and CPR

SELECTED ACHIEVEMENTS

• Assisted in increasing patient satisfaction scores by 20% through exceptional chairside assistance and patient education.
• Implemented efficient instrument sterilization procedures, reducing sterilization time by 15% and improving overall office productivity.
• Successfully managed a caseload of 30+ patients per day, ensuring timely and accurate documentation of treatment records.
• Collaborated with the dental team to achieve a 10% reduction in patient wait times by streamlining appointment scheduling and optimizing office workflow.

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

Dental Assistant ANA Dental Clinic, Coppell, TX Apr 2020 – Present

• Assisted the dentist during various dental procedures, including fillings, extractions, and root canals.
• Prepared treatment rooms by ensuring proper sterilization and organization of instruments and supplies.
• Took and developed dental X-rays and maintained accurate patient records.
• Educated patients on proper oral hygiene techniques and post-operative care instructions.
• Scheduled patient appointments and managed the front desk duties as needed.

Dental Aide ABC Dental – Estancia, NM Nov 2018 – Apr 2020

• Provided six-handed dentistry for the examination and treatment of approximately 22 patients per day
• Prepared tray setups accurately for a dental operation, which resulted in a 50% increase in efficiency
• Maintained adequate supply levels at all times
• Helped dentists and patients in the dental lab tests
• Performed clerical duties related to the dental program

EDUCATION Associate of Applied Science in Dental Assisting ECPI University, Coppell, TX – 2018

CORE COMPETENCIES

• Dental radiography
• Chairside assisting
• Sterilization techniques
• Digital impressions
• Patient education
• X-ray processing
• Appointment scheduling
• Charting and records management
• CPR certified

COMPUTER SKILLS • MS Word, Excel • Dexis, Dentrix, and Eaglesoft

“I am committed to ensuring a positive patient experience and supporting the dental team in delivering outstanding dental care.”

Strong professional references are available

How to Write a Professional Resume for a Dental Assistant Position?

To write a professional resume for a dental assistant position, follow these guidelines:

1. Start with a Summary or Objective Statement : Begin your resume with a strong summary statement or objective that highlights your qualifications and experience. This section should catch the attention of employers and entice them to read further.

2. Highlight Your Qualifications and Skills : Summarize your relevant qualifications and skills in a bullet point or tabular format. Include skills such as dental radiography, chairside assisting, sterilization techniques, patient education, and appointment scheduling.

3. Include Achievements : Showcase your dental assistant achievements to demonstrate your impact and contributions in previous roles. Use quantifiable accomplishments whenever possible, such as increasing patient satisfaction scores or improving office productivity.

4. Describe Your Professional Experience : Provide detailed information about your work experience as a dental assistant. Include the name and location of the dental clinic or practice, your role and responsibilities, and the duration of your employment. Highlight your contributions, such as assisting dentists with procedures, preparing treatment rooms, taking and developing X-rays, and educating patients.

5. Education and Certifications : Mention your educational background and any relevant certifications or licenses, such as Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) or dental radiology license. Include the name of the institution, location, and year of completion.

6. Computer Skills : If applicable, mention any computer skills or software programs you are proficient in, such as MS Word, Excel, or dental practice management software.

7. Personal Statement : Conclude your resume with a brief personal statement expressing your commitment to providing a positive patient experience and supporting the dental team.

8. References : Mention that strong professional references are available upon request.

Remember to customize your resume to match the specific requirements of the dental assistant position you are applying for. Tailor your skills and experiences to align with the job description, and proofread your resume carefully to ensure it is error-free.

Recommended resources:

• Dental Assistant Cover Letter Example
• Dental Assistant Resume with No Experience
• Dental Assistant Interview Questions and Answers
• Find Dental Assistant Jobs
• Professional Summary for a Registered Dental Assistant
• Top 20 Dental Assistant Resume Objective Examples
• Dental Assistant Job Description for Resume
• Top 20 Dental Assistant Achievements and Accomplishments for Resume

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Dental Assistant Resume Examples

• Aug 7, 2024

In the dynamic field of dental healthcare, a well-crafted dental assistant resume is your passport to a successful career. Your resume serves as your introduction to potential employers, showing your qualifications, skills, and commitment to patient care.

The toothbrush doesn’t remove six months of tartar 30 minutes before your dental appointment.

Whether you're a seasoned specialist or just starting to work in the field, this article will teach you how to create a perfect resume. Read on to discover how to make your dental assistant resume shine as bright as your patients' teeth!

Dental Assistant Resume Sample

Pediatric dental assistant resume example, experienced dental assistant resume.

Professional Summary Dedicated and certified Dental Assistant with 8 years of experience providing exceptional patient care and support in a fast-paced dental practice. Proficient in chairside assisting, radiography, sterilization, and patient education. Adept at creating a reassuring environment for patients. Seeking to contribute my skills and expertise to a dynamic dental team. Experience Dental Assistant (2016 - 2024) Smile Dental Clinic, Sacramento, CA Assisted the dentist during dental procedures, ensuring patient comfort and safety. Prepared and sterilized dental instruments and equipment for each appointment. Performed digital X-rays and maintained accurate patient records. Managed appointment scheduling and patient inquiries, optimizing office efficiency. Educated patients on proper oral hygiene and post-treatment care. Education Associate Degree in Dental Assisting California Northstate University, College of Dental Medicine (2013 - 2016) Skills Chairside assisting; Digital radiography; Sterilization techniques; Dental software; Patient education; Infection control; Strong communication; Team collaboration.

Certified Dental Assistant Resume Sample

Beginner dental assistant resume example.

Professional Summary Motivated and detail-oriented Dental Assistant seeking to utilize knowledge acquired from college training. Reliable and dedicated to providing comprehensive patient care with a focus on creating a comfortable and supportive environment for patients. Ready to leverage excellent interpersonal skills to provide high-quality service and contribute to the dental team's success. Education Associate Degree in Applied Science in Dental Assisting NYU College of Dentistry (2019 - 2023) GPA: 3.8/4.0 Coursework: Dental Science, Dental Radiography, Dental Office Administration, Oral Health, Dental Pharmacology, Dental Materials, CPR Training. Certifications Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) - Dental Assisting National Board (2022) Certified in CPR and First Aid - American Red Cross (2023) Skills X-Ray processing; Equipment management; Electronic charting; Patient relations; Problem solving; Patient scheduling; Time management; Teamwork; Attention to detail; Adaptability.

Styleguide for Dental Assistant Resume

When composing a resume for the dental assistant position, it is essential to keep a professional demeanor and brevity.

• Avoid repeating words several times in a row and make sure the text is unique and versatile.
• Use specific words to describe yourself and job-related terminology to highlight your qualifications.
• Remember to keep the sentences short , no longer than 12 words each.

A proper summary of a dental assistant resume can have the following action words: Detail-oriented . Meticulously organizing patient files, sterilizing dental instruments, and providing quality patient care. Excellent communication . Interacting with patients in a courteous manner, listening and responding to patient questions and concerns. Multitasking . Managing multiple tasks simultaneously while attending to patient needs in a timely manner. Strong clinical skills . Preparing examination rooms, taking and recording vital signs, and assisting with dental procedures. Infection control . Cleaning and sterilizing instruments and maintaining a safe and clean work environment. Attention to detail . Double-checking records for accuracy, ensuring medical protocols are followed. Patient care . Providing compassionate patient care and educating patients about oral health. Team player . Working cooperatively with dentists, hygienists, and other healthcare professionals. Expertise in dentrix software . Utilizing computer software programs to schedule appointments and enter data into patient records. Time management . Staying organized while juggling multiple patients at once and managing time efficiently.

Contact Information

It is necessary to include personal and contact information in a resume for a dental assistant position. This information should be accurate and up-to-date , so employers can easily get in touch with you.

Be sure to add the following details:

• Full name . Place your full legal name at the top of your dental assistant resume. Use a larger font or a bold style to make it stand out.
• Address . Indicate the city and country you're currently living in.
• Phone number . Provide an active phone number so the hiring manager can reach you.
• Email address . Avoid using overly casual or inappropriate email addresses.

The best way to structure the experience section is in chronological order , starting with your most recent position. This helps employers get an idea of your career and the experience you have gained along the way.

Each entry should include the this information:

• Job title . Clearly state your job title.
• Employer . Add the name of the dental practice or clinic where you worked.
• Dates of employment . Use " Present " if you are currently employed.
• Bullet points . List specific responsibilities and achievements for each position.

You could list out your work experiences like this:

Dental Assistant (2020 - Present)

Bright Smiles Family Dentistry, Raleigh, North Carolina

• Gained hands-on experience in chairside assisting, dental radiography, and infection control.
• Assisted with dental procedures, including fillings, cleanings, and extractions.
• Managed medical records and appointment scheduling using dental software.
• Conducted preliminary patient assessments and maintained patient comfort.

Dental Assistant (2019 - 2020)

SmileCare Dental Clinic, Charlotte, North Carolina

• Assisted the dentist with various procedures, such as cleanings, fillings, and extractions.
• Managed patient records and updated medical histories.
• Assisted with laboratory tasks, including preparing dental impressions and models.
• Maintained strict infection control procedures to ensure patient and staff safety.

The details in these examples demonstrate that you are capable of providing quality dental care and have relevant experience for the job. They also show that you are familiar with the typical duties of a dental assistant and can be trusted to perform them.

However, if you were to list your experiences without any detail or context, it would be difficult for employers to understand what kind of skills you possess.

Bad example:

Dental Assistant, White Teeth Dentistry, Louisville, Kentucky

• I helped the dentist a lot.
• Cleaned everything.
• Worked with patients.
• Did some other stuff.

This example lacks specificity and details and doesn't give employers enough data. As a result, they may not consider you as a qualified candidate.

Overall, when listing your job experience for a dental assistant resume, include enough information so that employers can gain an accurate depiction of your competencies. This will make it easier for them to see why you are the ideal candidate for the job.

When organizing educational history in a resume for a dental assistant position, it's important to start with your highest degree :

Bachelor's Degree in Dental Assisting - University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (2019 - 2022)

If a dental assistant has just finished a course, it should be listed right after a bachelor's degree as the most recent qualification. Previous courses can be added below in reverse chronological order . It may be itemized as follows:

Infection Control Protocols Course - Collins Career Center (2023) Patient Care and Communication Course - Northwood Technical College (2021)

On the other hand, it's important not to list qualifications that don't relate to the job role that you are applying for. For example, if you have completed a course in graphic design , this should not be mentioned in a resume for a dental assistant job.

Including irrelevant qualifications may lead employers to question your understanding of the role and result in them overlooking your application.

Dental Assistant Resume Skills

Incorporating both soft and hard skills into a dental assistant resume is essential.

• Soft skills demonstrate interpersonal qualities such as communication, empathy, problem-solving, and teamwork.
• Hard skills show dental healthcare, proficiencies such as record keeping, use of specialized equipment, and sterilization procedures.

When including your soft abilities, concentrate on qualities that are essential for success in the job.

Dental assistant soft skills: Communication . Effective verbal and non-verbal communication when interacting with patients and explaining dental procedures. Empathy . Empathetic and understanding to patients' concerns and fears. Teamwork . Collaborative skills to ensure smooth operations in the dental office. Adaptability . The ability to adapt to different situations and handle unexpected challenges. Attention to detail . Keen eye for detail to make sure instruments are sterilized and properly set up, and records are accurately maintained. Organization . Skills to manage patient schedules, maintain records, and keep the workspace clean and efficient. Problem-solving . Addressing unexpected issues during procedures effectively.

When outlining hard proficiencies, center on those traits that are particular to the job.

Hard skills for a dental assistant: Chairside assistance . Proficiency in assisting the dentist during various dental procedures, like providing instruments, maintaining a sterile field, and ensuring patient comfort. Radiography . Taking dental X-rays, including digital radiography, and processing them accurately while adhering to safety protocols. Radiation safety . Knowledge of radiation safety practices and the competence to protect patients and yourself from unnecessary radiation exposure. Dental software . Familiarity with dental practice management software, such as Dentrix, Eaglesoft, or Open Dental, for appointment scheduling, record-keeping, and billing. Digital photography . Proficiency in photography for documenting cases, treatment progress, and patient education. Sterilization and infection control . Knowledge of infection control protocols, proper sterilization techniques, and compliance with regulations to maintain a safe and sanitary environment. Equipment maintenance . Ensuring that dental equipment is functioning properly and knowing how to perform routine troubleshooting. Dental materials handling . Capability to handle and mix dental materials like cement and amalgam. Impressions and models . Skill in taking dental impressions and creating models for medical procedures, such as crowns, bridges, or orthodontic appliances. Orthodontic procedures . Understanding and assisting in procedures like braces installation and adjustment are important. Laboratory skills . Performing laboratory duties under the supervision of the dentist. Charting . Maintaining and updating patients’ records, their dental history and the present treatment plan. CPR . Having the CPR or Basic Life Support training can literally be a lifesaving skill in an emergency situation.

Social Media

Adding social media profiles to a dental assistant resume is generally not relevant to the position. A potential employer should be able to quickly review your application papers to understand your skills, qualifications, and experience.

• Inserting irrelevant social media profiles can clutter your resume and distract from essential qualifications.
• If your social media presence is primarily personal , it's best to omit it from a dental assistant resume.

Resume Summary

A great resume summary for a dental assistant must emphasize your expertise, abilities, and qualifications. It must be concise and easy to read , while also giving the reader an impression of the applicant's professional identity .

Outstanding dental assistant resume summary example should look like this : Accomplished and devoted Dental Assistant with 5+ years of experience giving first-rate patient care in a thriving dental practice. Proficient in delivering a wide range of treatments from preventive care to oral surgery. Highly skilled in taking digital radiographs, preparing dental materials, and executing lab procedures. Have a passion for helping patients maintain optimal oral health.

Here are 3 tips on crafting an impressive dental assistant resume summary:

• Focus on key information that will give you an edge over other applicants. Emphasize pertinent abilities, experience, and qualifications that match the job description.
• Keep it succinct and to the point . Avoid repeating phrases or using too much jargon. Aim for 3-5 sentences that capture your most important attributes as a dental assistant.
• Make sure to proofread your summary several times before submitting your resume. Double-check that you have provided accurate information about yourself and ensure there are no mistakes or typos.

According to Delta Dental nearly 2 of 3 Americans (65%) visit the dentist at least once a year.

Entry-level candidates or those transitioning into the field can use a dental assistant resume objective instead. It typically highlights what the person is seeking from the position they are applying for.

Additional Information

Enhancing a dental assistant resume with extra personal details is an important step towards getting noticed by recruiters. It gives the recruiter a better idea of who you are as an individual.

Hobbies are an excellent way to demonstrate that the candidate has interests outside of their work life.

For example, if the candidate loves mountain biking or kayaks, this could demonstrate their physical fitness and passion for adventure.

Courses are an outstanding method to show one's knowledge in specific areas related to the job.

A dental assistant may have taken courses on oral hygiene or advanced procedures in dentistry. This will show their eagerness to gain further knowledge.

You don’t have to brush your teeth – just the ones you want to keep.

Languages are also an important addition to a resume for a dental assistant position. A candidate who can speak several languages is able to communicate with patients from different cultures and backgrounds.

For example, if the candidate is fluent in Spanish then this can be a valuable asset for any practice looking for bilingual staff members.

Awards can be a fantastic tool for making one's dental assistant resume more impressive than other applicants.

This could include excellence awards from professional organizations or awards for outstanding achievements in the workplace.

Internships provide an excellent opportunity for candidates to demonstrate their experience within their field before applying for a full-time position.

It was customary during the Middle Ages to kiss a donkey if you had a toothache.

References allow recruiters to contact previous employers who can vouch for your abilities and professionalism. A letter of recommendations can provide a profound understanding of how the candidate performs in their job role.

Certificates demonstrate that you have completed specialized training courses or certifications relevant to your field of study.

They can serve as proof that you have received formal education in areas such as dental hygiene or dental laboratory technology.

Use a Resume Builder

Are you looking for a quick way to write a dental assistant resume? Using the free resume builder can be the perfect solution!

Pre-made templates provide an ideal starting point for constructing a resume for a dental assistant position.

Benefits of using an online resume builder:

• All you need to do is fill in the information and the resume creator will make a professional-looking resume in no time at all.
• Using a dental assistant resume template can save you time and energy as you don't need to start from scratch.
• The resume templates are professionally designed and ATS-friendly.
• You can customize your resume and select colors and layouts that are the right style for your sphere.

So if you need an easy way to create a polished, professional dental assistant resume without spending hours writing it manually use an online resume creator.

Create your professional Resume in 10 minutes for FREE

Dental Assistant Cover Letter

Writing a cover letter for a dental assistant job is key to helping you land the job.

Good Example:

Dear Ms. Anderson,

I am writing to express my interest in taking on the Dental Assistant job at SmileCraft Dentistry. With over five years of experience as an assistant in a busy dental office, I believe I am well qualified for this position and would be an asset to your team.

I am highly organized and detail-oriented, able to effectively juggle multiple tasks while guaranteeing accuracy in my work. Additionally, I have excellent interpersonal skills which allow me to easily build rapport with patients and coworkers alike. I am sure that my knowledge and experience will be beneficial to your clinic and its patients.

I would love the opportunity to discuss this position further with you and learn more about SmileCraft Dentistry's goals and ambitions. Thank you for your time and consideration; I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Evelyn Wilson

Bad Example:

Dear Hiring Manager,

I'm writing because I am applying for the role of dental assistant at Tooth Haven. I believe I'm qualified because I've done this kind of work before at another place and I think I could do it here too. Thanks for considering me!

Michael Martinez

• The first example is more effective because it begins with addressing the recipient by name and contains details about relevant experience and skills .
• The second example does not provide any specifics about qualifications or experience and can't make an impactful impression on the employer reading it.

Here are some advice on writing a convincing cover letter :

• Start with a strong introduction . Begin a cover letter with an engaging statement that grabs the reader's attention. Introduce yourself and explain why you are interested in a dental assistant position.
• Clearly state the purpose . In the opening or second paragraph, explain the purpose of your letter. Mention the specific position you're applying for and where you found the job posting.
• Highlight your relevant skills . The cover letter should be tailored to the role you are applying for. Make sure you highlight any relevant experience, education, or skills that are pertinent to the job and help you stand out as a candidate.
• Address potential concerns . If you have employment gaps or other issues in your work history, briefly address them in a positive way without dwelling on them. Focus on how you've grown and what you've learned from those experiences.
• Back up your claims with examples . To effectively showcase your skills, provide specific examples of how you have used them in past roles or projects. This helps demonstrate your abilities and makes it more likely that the employer will take notice of you.

Entry-Level Cover Letter for a Dental Assistant

Dear Mr. Walker, I am writing to apply for the job of dental assistant at Bright Smile Dental Care. I understand that I don't have any direct experience in this field, but I believe that my enthusiasm and passion for the role can make up for it. I am a recent graduate of the Ohio State University, with a degree in Dental Hygiene. During my studies, I developed my knowledge of dentistry and the related processes. I also possess excellent organizational skills, which I think would be a great asset to your team. Furthermore, I am a fast learner who is eager to learn everything necessary to perform at a high level as a dental assistant. I am confident that if given the opportunity, I will be able to demonstrate my commitment and capability in no time. If given a chance to prove myself, I am sure that you won't regret your decision. Please feel free to contact me if you need more information or have any questions about my candidacy. Thank you very much for considering my application. Sincerely, Anna Stansberry

Advice on building a cover letter for an entry-level dental assistant resume:

• Highlight relevant skills . Emphasize any relevant qualifications you possess that would make you an ideal candidate for the role. If you don't have direct experience but are confident that you can do the job well, explain why and how your other experiences have prepared you for this role.
• Show your enthusiasm . Make sure to express your enthusiasm for the role and explain why this particular job interests you. Showing genuine interest can help convince the employer that you are the right person for the job.
• Keep it short and clear . Keep the cover letter concise and understandable - within one page. Use simple language and avoid making it too long-winded or difficult to understand.
• Proofread carefully . Before submitting your cover letter, check it multiple times for grammar mistakes and typos - employers don't like sloppy work.

Proofreading

A dental assistant resume or cover letter with misspellings or incorrect grammar will make a poor first impression. It reduces your chances of getting invited to an interview .

To proofread your dental assistant resume and cover letter:

• Read your application papers aloud . This helps you catch awkward phrasing and repetitive sentences.
• Use spell and grammar checkers to remove basic errors.
• Start at the end of your document and read it backward , sentence by sentence. This can help you focus on individual words.
• Ask someone to look over your documents and give feedback. They can point out any errors you might have missed.
• Take a break from writing before doing this final read-through as you may catch mistakes that you didn't notice.

With thoroughness, you can guarantee that the dental assistant job documents are faultless and make a good impression on recruiters and hiring managers.

A CareerBuilder survey showed that 77% of hiring managers will not consider a job applicant if their resume contains bad grammar or typos.

Having a well-crafted resume is essential for landing any job. It is crucial to ensure yours is distinctive from the rest applicants.

To simplify the process of creating an application, use an online resume builder . This will help ensure that your dental assistant resume is tailored specifically for the position and all the required information is included.

To help get you started, here are the key points to pay attention to when writing a dental assistant resume: Emphasize any pertinent certifications or experience in dentistry. Make sure to include contact information and relevant references . Showcase your ability to work effectively with all types of patients. Describe any special skills that could be beneficial.

Writing a solid resume for a dental assistant job doesn't have to be difficult. Just take the time to plan it out properly and get inspired with dental assistant resume examples . Don't wait another minute – start writing your resume now and take one step closer to getting hired!

Alexandra Meyer

Editor-in-Chief at Resume Trick

Alexandra Meyer is the editor-in-chief of Resume Trick. She was behind the launch of Icecream Apps in 2014 and continues to oversee the high content standards of the company's projects. Alexandra has years of experience writing and editing articles about technology, software and online services, and human resources.

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• Entry Level Dental Assistant Resume Example

Resume Examples

• Common Tasks & Responsibilities
• Top Hard & Soft Skills
• Action Verbs & Keywords
• Resume FAQs
• Similar Resumes

Common Responsibilities Listed on Entry Level Dental Assistant Resumes:

• Prepare treatment room for patient by following prescribed procedures and protocols
• Sterilize and disinfect instruments and equipment
• Prepare materials for impressions and restorations
• Assist the dentist during a variety of treatment procedures
• Take and record medical and dental histories and vital signs of patients
• Provide patients with instructions for oral care following all dental treatment procedures
• Expose dental diagnostic x-rays
• Assist in management of medical and dental emergencies
• Maintain patient confidence and protect operations by keeping information confidential
• Document dental care services by charting in patient records
• Maintain supplies inventory by checking stock to determine inventory level; anticipating needed supplies; placing and expediting orders for supplies; verifying receipt of supplies
• Maintain safe and clean working environment by complying with procedures, rules, and regulations

Speed up your resume creation process with the AI-Powered Resume Builder . Generate tailored achievements in seconds for every role you apply to.

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

Top Skills & Keywords for Entry Level Dental Assistant Resumes:

Hard skills.

• Chairside Assisting
• Sterilization and Infection Control
• Dental Radiography
• Impressions and Models
• Dental Charting
• Dental Materials Knowledge
• Patient Education
• Dental Software and Technology
• Dental Anatomy and Terminology
• Dental Office Management
• Instrument Maintenance and Sharpening
• Dental Laboratory Procedures

Soft Skills

• Attention to Detail
• Interpersonal Skills
• Time Management
• Communication Skills
• Professionalism
• Adaptability
• Organization
• Problem Solving
• Multitasking
• Active Listening

Resume Action Verbs for Entry Level Dental Assistants:

• Communicated

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Resume FAQs for Entry Level Dental Assistants:

How long should i make my entry level dental assistant resume, what is the best way to format a entry level dental assistant resume, which keywords are important to highlight in a entry level dental assistant resume, how should i write my resume if i have no experience as a entry level dental assistant, compare your entry level dental assistant resume to a job description:.

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Related Resumes for Entry Level Dental Assistants:

Beginner dental assistant, dental assistant, orthodontic dental assistant, pediatric dental assistant, registered dental assistant, lead dental assistant, entry level medical assistant, medical assistant.

Dental Assistant Resume: Your Complete Guide

Brandi Glass

• 9 min read.

Before applying to dental assistant positions, it’s important to have a well-formatted, professional dental assistant resume to showcase your skills and experience in the best possible light. A resume gives the first professional impression of who you are to hiring managers, but an effective one sets you apart from an oversaturated candidate pool.

That said, since there is no set dental assistant resume, selecting an effective template demonstrates much more than your experience. It also highlights your technical skills, soft strengths, and ability to clearly communicate with others.

Ready to get started? This post covers everything you need to know about creating an effective dental assistant resume, including dental assistant resume examples and tips on formatting, text size, and keywords you can use to improve your chances of securing your next job.

General Tips for Dental Assistant Resumes

You may have heard it’s important to tailor your resume to fit the job description. But how do you do that (and does that mean you need a new resume every time you apply for a job)?

Most job seekers apply to multiple job posts when they’re looking for a new position, so you’re unlikely to have the time or capacity to create a brand-new resume for every job. The good news is that you don’t have to. Ultimately, it’s the resume’s keywords, format, and structure that have the greatest impact on the candidate selection process, and most of these elements don’t change from job to job.

Many employers use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATSs) to manage their hiring and onboarding processes. In the past, recruiters and hiring managers would go through resumes individually. But now, with today’s technology, delegating these tasks to software has become more accessible.

Because this type of software allows employers to specify target keywords when they upload their job descriptions, including these keywords gives you a greater chance of visibility.

Formatting and Organization

Simple, professional formats that don’t distract humans and confuse machines are the way to go when you want to format and organize your resume. Creative resumes may look aesthetically pleasing and impressive, but they rarely pass through ATS systems.

Clean and straightforward layouts are more likely to make it through software without errors. They’re also easier to read for recruiters and don’t cause unnecessary distractions.

Font and Spacing

Not many people think of the impact of font and spacing in a resume. But they can impact a hiring manager’s decision to hire you depending on how much strain it takes to read your resume. Some tips for using font and spacing correctly include:

• Use a solid black font
• Don’t make your font too large or small; sizes 11-12 are acceptable for resumes
• Use Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman font
• Have clean and even spaces between your resume sections

Highlighting Experience and Education

Highlighting your experience and education in clearly defined resume sections is essential. You can start by listing your roles chronologically, beginning with your current or most recent position. For each role, include the company name, your title/role, and your dates of employment. Then, describe your responsibilities and achievements in a concise and informative way.

For the education section, list your degrees or diplomas, beginning with your highest level of education. Include the name of the institution, your field of study, and your graduation date. If you have certifications relevant to dental assisting, such as a Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) certificate, highlight them prominently in this section. You can also emphasize tasks relating to the role you’re applying for, but take care not to embellish your experience.

Essential Components of a Dental Assistant Resume Template

The main components of a successful dental assistant resume template are the header, professional summary, skills, education, experience, and certification and license sections.

[email protected] (123) 456-7891

Professional Summary

Highly skilled and patient-focused dental assistant with over 5 years of hands-on experience in a fast-paced dental office. Demonstrated expertise in managing multiple dental procedures, maintaining dental records, and providing excellent patient care standards. Proficient with dental technology and software with a strong understanding of dental health safety and hygiene protocols.

• Experience Using Dental Software
• Dental Procedure Assistance
• Instrument Sterilization and Maintenance
• Communication
• Bachelor of Science in Dental Assistance, University of Theory, 2018-2022
• High School Diploma, Theory High School, 2013-2017

Laughs and Smiles Dental Clinic, Las Vegas, Nevada | Dental Assistant | May 2022-Present

• Developing patient relationships through effective communication and chairside manner, leading to a 30% increase in client retention
• Assisting dentists with dental procedures like cleanings, fillings, and extraction
• Performing administrative duties such as answering questions, assisting clients with forms, insurance billing, and scheduling visits
• Operating and maintaining dental equipment, including X-ray machines
• Performing strict instrument sterilization and infection control measures, maintaining a clean and safe environment for patients

Certifications and Licenses

• Certified Dental Assistant (CDA)
• Radiology Certification
• CPR and First Aid Certification

_ Create your own dental assistant resume with Rocket Resume’s AI-driven resume builder. _

Tips for Writing Each Section of the Dental Assistant Resume Template

To craft a standout dental assistant resume, adopt a strategic approach by highlighting your accomplishments in each section. If applicable, your header should have clear and professional contact information with any relevant, public social media or portfolio links.

An unprofessional email address makes it difficult for recruiters to take you seriously. As for your summary, it should display your years of experience, skills, and career goals. The skills section should highlight technical and soft skills relevant to the job post (this is also where you should focus on implementing keywords from the job description if applicable).

The education section must list your academic qualifications in reverse chronological order. List your relevant certifications and licenses clearly to show professional growth and adherence to industry standards. In the experience section, emphasize your achievements using action verbs and metrics.

Finally, don’t forget to highlight volunteer work or extracurricular activities, especially if you don’t have career experience or are a new graduate.

How to Customize Your Dental Assistant Resume Template for Specific Jobs

Before applying for dental assistant jobs, you should have a professional resume and cover letter demonstrating your qualifications and fit for the role.

The skills section is an essential part of your dental assistant resume, where you list both technical and soft skills relevant to the role. For a beginner dental assistant resume or an entry-level resume, you may showcase the skills you acquired while in an educational setting or at an internship. If you are a recent graduate without experience, focus on listing your transferable skills with relevant coursework or training.

The objective statement of your dental assistant resume highlights your goals and how your abilities align with the employer’s needs. The central part of your resume that lists your duties and responsibilities should reflect applicable parts of the job description. Also, tailor your professional duties depending on whether you’re crafting an experienced or registered dental assistant resume, a lead dental assistant resume, or a resume for an internship position.

The summary section of your resume provides a snapshot of your most significant qualifications. This is your opportunity to “hook” the recruiter with your qualifications. So if you are a registered dental assistant, your summary should highlight this credential and include any other notable achievements.

Lastly, tailor your resume and cover letter to each job application. By carefully adjusting your objective, skills, and duties to match each job description, you’ll be well-positioned to catch the attention of potential employers (and their tracking software).

Additional Tips and Tricks for Crafting a Strong Dental Assistant Resume

Now that you have the format, outline, and information on your resume, it’s time to edit and proofread. One of the most common mistakes candidates make is switching tenses when listing their experience. Another is redundancy or listing irrelevant information. Craft your resume carefully and chisel out the parts that don’t belong, reading it from a recruiter’s perspective.

Besides the content, double and triple-check for spelling mistakes, typos, and the improper use of jargon. Hiring managers notice these mistakes and may pass on your resume due to finding one or multiple errors, especially if you included “attention to detail” in your CV.

Another tip is to quantify your achievements to highlight your impact on your former employers. For example, writing that your customer service skills led to a 30% increase in client retention is a green flag for a potential employer.

Once you have completed the editing and review process, look at your resume from a visual perspective. Does it have clean lines? Any odd formatting? Is it easy to read and skim through? If you can answer ‘yes’ to all three questions, your resume is ready to submit.

Finally, don’t forget to follow up with the employer after submitting your resume. This step keeps you from waiting and also shows that you’re enthusiastic about the position. Although some employers inform you of their decision regardless of their direction, some do not.

How to Apply for Dental Assistant Jobs

Applying for dental assistant jobs requires a well-crafted resume and cover letter that showcases your qualifications, experience, and skills. Rocket Resume’s dental assistant resume builder is easy to use, enabling you to generate your resume in significantly less time. Our templates generally pass Applicant Tracking Systems without issues, which keeps your resume in the system and in sight.

Regardless of the role you’re applying for, always format your resume professionally. One of the best ways to do so is to use a dental assistant resume builder that provides a professional and well-structured CV. With Rocket Resume, you don’t have to worry about formatting. Instead, you can focus on creating a resume that’ll help you land the perfect job.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How to write a resume for dental assistant.

The best way to write a resume for a dental assistant is with a dental assistant resume template. You can then tailor your template to the job description, ensuring that it is correctly formatted and that all of the main sections that highlight your strengths are included.

What is a good objective for a dental assistant resume?

A good objective segment for a dental assistant resume describes how your former experience, future career goals, and the employer’s needs meet. This objective helps employers quickly gauge whether you’re a good fit and attracts attention compared to the applicant who uses a general objective statement.

What to put on a resume for dental assistant?

A resume for dental assistant must have a professional summary, a header, an education section, a licensing and certification segment, and the main content, which is your prior professional experience. Always highlight your accomplishments and use metrics to demonstrate your positive impact on client retention, operations, or an increase in patients.

What skills to put on resume for dental assistant?

Some of the skills you can put on your resume for dental assistant include experience using dental software, operating machines, instrument sterilization and maintenance, communication, administrative skills, and attention to detail.

What do job recruiters look for in a dental assistant resume?

Recruiters look for multiple elements in your resume, mainly evidence that you have experience that matches the skills you listed. They also seek candidates with the skills and experience needed for the role, including elements such as proficiency in assisting with dental procedures, quality of patient care, and familiarity with dental software.

Recruiters also notice spelling mistakes and appreciate a well-structured and error-free resume with a professional summary or objective that matches the job description.

What to put under experience on resume if never had a job as a dental assistant?

If you have no experience as a dental assistant, you can showcase relevant skills gained from other roles. You can also list your internships, workshops, certifications, and licenses to show that you’re working towards building the right experience to become a professional dental assistant. Although you may start in a more junior role, you can quickly gain experience and receive better job offers as you become more skilled.

How to describe job duties as a dental assistant on resume?

List the roles you performed at your former job in the job duties segment of your dental assistant resume. However, try not to include irrelevant information or add too much industry jargon, as it may give a negative impression.

What kind of resume is best for a dental administrative assistant?

For a dental assistant resume, you need a simple, clean, and well-structured resume template. Rocket Resume has multiple formats, and creating a professional CV takes much less time than doing it from scratch.

How do you close a resume for dental assistant?

You can close your resume by listing your volunteer work, giving the employer a sense of your interests beyond the dental profession. Although some candidates use “references furnished upon request,” this sentence is outdated, and employers will ask outright if they require references.

What do I put on my college resume for a dental assistant?

If you are a recent college graduate, you can put the following in your dental assistant resume: contact information, goals, education, skills, internships, certifications, licenses, honors or awards, volunteer work, and professional or academic references.

How to put dental assistant certificate on resume?

If you have certificates or licenses, include a separate segment dedicated to these accomplishments in your resume. Additionally, you can mention your certifications in the professional summary below the header of your resume.

How to start a resume as a dental assistant?

Start your resume by gathering all your professional information for easy access. The top section of your dental assistant resume should include the header with your contact information. The second section should be the professional summary, a mini overview of your skills. Then, choose a resume template with proper formatting that’s likely to pass Applicant Tracking Systems without glitches or issues.

**Get hired faster with Rocket Resume’s dental assistant resume template . Use our customizable resume builder to create your next resume in 10 minutes or less. **

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How to Write a Standout Resume for a Dental Assistant Position?

• Dental Assistant
• August 19, 2024

We all know the excitement and fear of applying for a new job, especially if you are pursuing your first job in a new career path. Joining the dental industry as a dental assistant requires a resume showing your experience, expertise, and qualifications. A great resume will get you noticed by a massive crowd of applicants. Here is how to develop your Dental Assistant resume.

Table of Contents

Contact Information

Professional summary, work experience, certifications, understanding the role.

Dental assistants are an indispensable part of a dental office team. They work hand in hand with dentists to ensure patients receive top-notch care. From assisting during procedures to managing basic administrative tasks, dental assistants play a significant role in creating a smooth and comfortable patient experience during clinic visits. In the following section, we will provide simple tips on how you can prepare your resume.

Making Your Resume Readable and Clear

A clear and readable resume helps employers easily and quickly identify the necessary information. Here’s what is proposed:

Start with your full name, telephone number, email account, and location. Ensure the email is formal. Here’s a guide to ensure your email is formal and effective:

• Use your full legal name as it appears on official documents. This adds a level of professionalism and avoids any confusion.
• Include your phone number with the appropriate country and area codes. This ensures that the recipient can contact you without any issues.
• Use a professional email address, preferably one that includes your name. Avoid using nicknames or unprofessional email providers.
• Mention your city, state, and country. This is especially important if you are contacting someone in a different location, as it provides context and helps plan any potential meetings or calls.

A statement is a short declaration of experience , ability, and professional goals. One example would be: 

“ Certified Dental Assistant with over five years of experience in providing exceptional patient care by supporting procedures and dentists with various functions: radiography, patient management, and administrative tasks. Seeking an opportunity to leverage my expert knowledge and dedication, I can bring in supporting the team.”

Some skills that would be appropriate to mention when describing the dental assistant position can be briefly categorized into technical skills and soft skills:

• Technical Competencies:
• Reviewing dental radiographs
• Sterilization techniques
• Mastery of dental software like Dentrix and Eaglesoft
• Assisting the doctor
• Case Management
• Human Skills:
• High-level communication
• Attention to detail
• Human relatability
• Collaboration
• Caring and sensitivity

Employment History:

• Start with the most recent and work backward.
• For each position, state the title, employer’s name, location, and the dates you held it.
• Use a bulleted list of your duties and achievements.

Smile Dental Clinic, New York, NY, Dental Assistant (June 2019 – Present)

• Assisted in all procedures, e.g., fillings, extractions, and root canal treatment.
• Prepared examination rooms and the operating room by serving as the scrub assistant.
• Worked with the Dentrix system, managing patient records and the schedule of their appointments.
• Provided education to patients regarding post-operative care and oral hygiene.
• Maintaining high empathy and communication skills achieved a 95% satisfactory patient rate.

Certifications are essential for the Dental Assistant post. Include relevant certifications, such as:

• Certified Dental Assistant (CDA)
• Radiation Health and Safety (RHS)
• Essential Life Support (BLS) or CPR certification

Other Information

• Languages: The ability to speak multiple languages can serve you well in a diverse environment.
• Professional Memberships: Membership in a professional body, such as the American Dental Assistants Association, can represent drive and interest within one’s field.
• Volunteer Work: Relevant volunteer experience should be included, e.g., in the healthcare/dental sector.

An attractive resume to land a dental assistant job compiles your skills, experiences, and qualifications in an easy-to-understand format. Structuring the format and tailoring the resume towards particular positions gives a powerful impression to the potential employer.

Originally from Southern California, Jessica moved to Las Vegas with her family before she found both a job as part of our Dental Assisting Team and her husband here. Jessica attended Sylmar HS in California and then Charter College for… Read Full Bio

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September 2nd, 2024

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Dental assistant cover letter example

Primary purpose

Maximizing your chances, the importance of learning.

As people become more conscientious about their teeth, dental assistants are in ever-higher demand. So how do you launch or continue a rewarding career in this dentistry role? An exceptional dental assistant cover letter will give you a big advantage over other job seekers and could even be what lands you the job. It's the most professional way to convince a dental office that you’re the right person for its team. 

For expert advice and support with every cover letter preparation step, you’re in the right place. Resume.io’s job-winning resources include more than 180 occupation-specific writing guides and free cover letter examples. In addition, we offer formatting advice, plus field-tested templates and builder tools to help you create both resumes and cover letters.

This writing guide, along with a dental assistant cover letter example, will discuss how to write a cover letter that stands out from crowds of others and help you land that interview. Here’s what we’ll cover:

• The importance of an effective cover letter tailored to each position
• The best format for structuring a dental assistant cover letter
• Step-by-step advice for each cover letter section: header, greeting, introduction, body and conclusion
• Writing psychology — important qualities for a dental assistant’s cover letter
• How to avoid common mistakes made by other job candidates

There’s a growing amount of research that shows good dental health is a key component of overall physical health. Not surprisingly, the job outlook for dental assistants is is favorable. In fact, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that the need for dental assistants will grow by 8 percent from 2021 to 2031, faster than the average for most occupations.

Why a dental assistant cover letter is important

Let’s take a look at why a cover letter is necessary for all applications and how to create one that speaks to your skills and achievements.

A cover letter is one of the most requested application materials with good reason. It allows an employer to get a sense of your personality, motivation and successes without you ever having to step in the door for an interview. This 200-to-400 word document is the perfect complement to your resume because it allows you to expand on any points of interest, unexplained circumstances or unique perspectives that your resume simply doesn’t have space for. 

A cover letter is one of the easiest ways to make a personal connection with dentists or hiring managers. Here, you are able to create your strongest arguments about why you’re a good fit for their office and why you stand apart from other certified dental assistants with similar training. 

It’s important to keep your letter concise and focused on a few key points. You should also stick to trusted san serif fonts like Helvetica, Georgia and Arial, with a size between 10 and 12 points. You can find even more formatting tips in Resume.io's comprehensive guide to writing a cover letter. 

Here is exactly how you can write a cover letter that will stand out from the crowd, and help you land that interview.

Occasionally, you’ll run into an application that doesn’t specify whether or not you must include a dental assistant cover letter. Many candidates take this ambiguity as a free pass to save themselves the trouble and submit only a resume. 

This is a big mistake.

In a field like dentistry, where many tasks are repetitive and many assistants have the same training and skills, a large number of dental assistant candidates will have similar resumes. How is a dentist supposed to know who will make for the most productive and personable hire? 

That’s where the cover letter is key. It's your big opportunity to convey your unique attributes, both in the selling points you make and your professional, friendly tone. Why throw away such a big opportunity to maximize your chances of landing the position?

Tailoring your resume for success

One of the surest ways to make your cover letter as effective as possible is to tailor it to each individual position that you apply for. A generic copy-paste cover letter is seldom likely to land you an interview. Employers want to see that you have demonstrated the exact skills needed for their unique situation. 

As a dental assistant, you may want to consider this potential employer’s patient population, dental clinic size and areas of expertise. For example, if the dentist works with a large number of Spanish-speakers, your ability to communicate in their language could be a huge advantage other candidates don’t have.

Best format for a dental assistant cover letter

Some candidates dread writing a cover letter because they think it lacks structure. Luckily, you don’t have to be among them. In this section, we’ll discuss the framework of a well-organized cover letter and offer writing tips to break it down into manageable steps.

Here are the key components:

• The cover letter header
• The greeting
• The introduction
• The letter body
• The conclusion
• The signature

The structure of a cover letter is roughly the same no matter which occupation or type of position. 

Next, we’ll take a closer look at each cover letter section, along with wording you can modify for each dental assistant position being sought. It comes from this adaptable dental assistant cover letter example.

Dear Dr. Bainton,

Four-handed dentistry should be delivered with precision and compassion in equal amounts. Graduating with an Associate’s Degree in Dental Assisting five years ago, and recently becoming a Certified Orthodontic Assistant, has expanded my clinical experience to encompass the broadest range of dental practice. My chairside manner met with the approval of 98% of my patients and is something that I am constantly seeking to work on.

Working in both public and private sectors — high-volume and boutique — has exposed me to the broadest range of patients and clinical procedures. I was consistently the CDA with the highest patient volume in my last practice, with 11 dentists and 15 assistants. I also ran the administrative office alongside patient care, developing a new preparation procedure to save 20% of time between appointments and implementing centralized procurement.

I have considerable experience in extractions, processing dental radiographs, fabricating crowns, implant procedures, suturing and all aspects of operative and post-operative care. Patients frequently mention my gentle approach during cleaning, polishing and taking impressions. I am accomplished at explaining the benefits of oral hygiene and was a semi-regular preventive educator in the local school district. No one wants to go to the dentist, but not everyone — children and adults alike — must be  aware of what neglect might be doing to their teeth.

I have a flexible and caring approach to every patient and am able to adapt to the individual styles of the dentists that I work with. Four-handed dentistry is a team pursuit, and it only works well when there is harmony. Patients can certainly tell when that isn’t the case.

I have 60 patient recommendations and a glowing reference from my previous employer. Had I not relocated with my husband, I would have been a happy team member for a long time to come. Now I hope for the opportunity to become a valued part of your dental team.

Hayley Pickford

Cover letter header

The header's primary function is to identify your dental assistant cover letter as belonging to you. In large health care networks, hiring can be done by a team of HR professionals and it’s likely that your cover letter will float between desks. Your header helps to keep your name and contact information at the reader’s fingertips, which is practical even in small offices.

The goal of the cover letter header: Label your cover letter so that everyone who reads it has easy access to your contact information, create an attractive visual presentation.

Align document styles!

The secondary role of your header is to give your cover letter an aesthetically-pleasing look and feel. This is practically the only place on your document where it’s appropriate to add color or other design flourishes. However, in a formal industry like the medical field, it’s important to keep a sense of professionalism and organization. A neutral color palette is generally a good choice for this situation.

Another way to create a polished image is by aligning the styles of your resume, cover letter and other application materials. Our layout templates make it easy to create documents that convey a “personal brand” — a distinctive look that makes your application stand out from others.

Cover letter greeting

While only containing a few words, the greeting is one of the most important parts of your dental assistant cover letter. The goal is to create a personal connection with the dentist or hiring manager and set a polite and friendly tone for the rest of the document. While there are multiple possible greetings, “Dear” followed by the correct salutation and last name is the most versatile and respectful option.

The goal of the cover letter greeting: Address the letter recipient by name to establish a personal connection.

The importance of names and addressed greetings.

Whenever possible, you should always aim to address your cover letter to the person who will be reading it. In a small office or private dental practice, it’s safe to use the name of the dentist, even if an assistant may read it first. However, in hospitals and large health institutions, a team of hiring managers may be responsible for all the applications. If you aren’t able to find the name of the hiring manager or there appears to be more than one, it’s best to stick with a collective greeting like “Dear Shady Grove Health Team,” or “Dear MedStar Care Family,”

Cover letter introduction

The first paragraph of your cover letter is crucial to your dental assistant cover letter’s success. Your introduction should grab the attention of readers and carry them into the body section of the letter. Avoid boring or generic-sounding openings. Don't hesitate to use an energetic perspective, interesting anecdote or bold statement to hook the reader, as long as you still sound professional.

The goal of the cover letter introduction: Encourage the reader to continue reading your letter by creating an enthusiastic and interesting opening.

The greeting and introduction from our dental assistant cover letter sample appear below.

Cover letter body 

Now, in the middle part of your dental assistant cover letter, you’re ready to get into the details of why you are a great fit for this hiring office or team. 

To simplify the body section of your cover letter, break it into two parts.

• Use the STAR method to relay relevant anecdotes. First, describe a S ituation and the T ask required, then explain your A ction and the positive R esult it caused. Just make sure to keep each anecdote short so you don’t bore the reader.   
• This is your chance to discuss all the positive qualities and relevant skills you would bring to this dental office or dental assistant position. Mention the contributions you could make to the workplace. Just make sure to keep your tone respectful instead of presumptive.

The goal of the cover letter body: Describe your previous achievements and milestones, and also skills and contributions you could bring to this potential employer.

Our dental assistant cover letter example illustrates what you might include in the middle part:

Cover letter conclusion and signature

It’s the home stretch of your dental assistant cover letter! Finish strong by creating an effective call to action. This sentence conveys your enthusiasm for the position and invites the hiring manager or dentist to get in touch. You may choose to leave your phone number and contact information here as well. 

Then, sign off with a polite closing like “Best,” “Sincerely,” or “Best Regards.”

The goal of the cover letter conclusion: End on a positive note by creating a call to action that encourages a hiring manager to contact you.

Below is the closing section of our dental assistant cover letter.

Writing psychology

As a dental assistant, there are a few key qualities you’ll want to convey in your professional cover letter. Your objective is to connect with prospective employers in a way that speaks to their needs and values.

• Organization : A big part of a dental assistant’s work is cleaning and organizing tools and medical supplies. Plus, you’ll likely have to deal with patient charts and scheduling. Showing previous instances of effective organization can work to your advantage.
• Passion : You can have all the technical skills in the world, but no one wants to work with someone who isn’t excited about what they do. You don’t need to exaggerate, but make sure you convey some interest and enthusiasm for both this role and the field of dentistry.
• A positive disposition : Oftentimes, patients spend more of the visit with the dental assistant than with the dentist. Customer service skills and a friendly attitude are essential for making the appointment an enjoyable experience for patients of all ages.
• Ability to follow instructions : Dental assistants work in a valuable supporting role. As such, they need to be able to listen closely and follow instructions quickly and precisely. Reflect on times when you offered great supporting care to show what an effective team member you are.

One of the biggest skills needed to succeed in the world of dental assisting is the ability to learn quickly. Unless you are a dental hygienist or performing x-rays, in many states dental assistants are not required to have any official licensure or training. In many of these entry level positions, every aspect of dental assisting from scheduling appointments to teaching patients about oral hygiene will be picked up on the job.

If you have years of experience working in dental care, then you probably know different dentists have different preferences and workflows that they expect you to adapt to. Although you’ve mastered the basics of dental assisting, you’ll still be learning in each of these unique environments.

If this is your first time working as a dental assistant, then you’ll likely be starting from scratch. You’ll need to pick up the teeth numbering system, terminology and dental procedures and sterilizing processes quickly and efficiently.

In fact, the ability to pay attention, follow instructions and learn fast are some of the most important qualities dentists look for when hiring new assistants. Conveying these traits on your cover letter can make all the difference. 

At the end of the day, dental assisting is a hands-on career where patient care and procedural knowledge counts. Highlighting your ability to support a dentist through a variety of situations and pick up new skills quickly is one of the best ways to set yourself apart during your job search.

The benefits of learning

According to a study by LinkedIn, continuing to learn at work can also have big benefits for you. Almost half of respondents who learn at work say they feel less stressed at their job and 39 percent say they feel more productive.

While being happy and fulfilled has great benefits for you as an employee, it also makes you more hirable. Candidates who are passionate and enjoy what they do are more desirable in any workplace.

Common mistakes to avoid in your dental assistant cover letter

You will never regret making the time and effort to avoid these common mistakes in the final version of your dental assistant cover letter.

• Generic letters : Anyone in a hiring role can easily tell if job applicants put effort into their cover letter. It’s not enough to simply swap out the dentist’s name and submit the same letter with every application. To truly maximize your chances of landing the job, you’ll need to make sure your cover letter reflects the skills and needs of each job description.
• Typos and grammar mistakes : Small errors make your letter hard to read and dash your credibility. To avoid this common pitfall, take time to proofread your letter before you submit, or ask a friend to help you.
• Irrelevant information : If this is one of your first positions, you may be tempted to pad out your cover letter with tangentially related hobbies or activities. In general, it’s best to keep things strictly focused on the position. If you don’t have much experience, expand on your soft skills and personality traits that make you a good fit for the role.
• Formatting errors : Your visual presentation can carry just as much weight as your writing. Don’t leave it as an afterthought. Make sure it conveys the right message about you as a candidate. Using a professional cover letter template, like the ones Resume.io offers in four style categories, is a great way to make sure your document looks sharp and is error-free. Used together with our cover letter builder tool, a template makes it fast and easy to achieve professional results.

Key takeaways for a dental assistant cover letter

• Your cover letter is an essential component of any job application. Use it to create a personal connection with prospective employers and convince them that you are the right fit.
• To maximize your chances of success, make sure to customize your letter with the skills and qualities needed for each job posting that you apply for.
• Make the writing process easier by following the trusted cover letter structure and dedicating space to your achievements and milestones.
• The ability to quickly learn on the job is a key skill needed for dental assistants. Highlighting previous examples of this can prove your worth to a potential employer.
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Dental Assistant Associate

How to apply.

A cover letter is required for consideration for this position and should be attached as the first page of your resume. The cover letter should address your specific interest in the position and outline skills and experience that directly relate to this posting.

Mission Statement

MDentistry: advancing health through education, service, research and discovery. MDentistry Core Values: Compassion, Leadership, Excellence, Responsibility, Trust, Creativity, and Inclusion. The mission of the University of Michigan is to serve the people of Michigan and the world through preeminence in creating, communicating, preserving and applying knowledge, art, and academic values, and in developing leaders and citizens who will challenge the present and enrich the future. The University of Michigan is committed to foster learning, creativity and productivity, and to support the vigorous exchange of ideas and information, not only in the classroom but in the workplace by: -Creating a work environment in which people treat each other with respect and dignity, regardless of roles, responsibilities or differences. -Providing support, direction and resources enabling us to accomplish the responsibilities of our jobs and to reach the goals that are set for professional and personal growth.

Why Work at Michigan?

In addition to a career filled with purpose and opportunity, The University of Michigan offers a comprehensive benefits package to help you stay well, protect yourself and your family and plan for a secure future. Benefits include:

• Generous time off
• Excellent medical, dental and vision coverage effective date of hire
• A retirement plan that provides two-for-one matching contributions 
• Life insurance
• Long-term disability coverage
• Flexible spending accounts for healthcare and dependent care expenses 
• Tuition Support Program

Responsibilities*

Primary Duties:

• Stocking barriers, cubicles, and maintaining gown bags and hangers. Clean, stock and organize the laboratory. Direct the undergraduate students on how to use the lab equipment and what materials we have available for them. Order stock, specialty supplies and organize operatory supplies.
• Provide assistance to undergraduate by teaching them proper PPE, cubicle disinfectant procedures, barrier placement, assisting technique, along with material and equipment identification and proper usage instructions.
• Assist with maintaining the clinic by cleaning and flushing the HVE/SVE lines, changing the traps, flushing the DI water system, shocking the water lines and quarterly deep cleaning.

Additional Duties as assigned:

• Provide support to Guest Services Unit with greeting, guiding and screening those entering the building.
• Provide support to the Dispensing Unit by retrieving dental instruments and equipment utilizing a tracking system. Inspect instrument/equipment packages for completeness upon return.
• Assist with infection control monitoring of faculty, students, and staff along with quality assurance processes in clinic. Teaching students proper PPE practices, infection control, assisting techniques and material/equipment identification

Required Qualifications*

• High School Diploma or GED.
• 0 – 2 years of Dental experience; Reasonable knowledge of dental clinic practices and procedures
• Current BLS for Healthcare Providers
• Radiography certification
• Ability to follow oral and written instructions.
• Exceptional interpersonal skills and ability to work well within a team setting.
• Demonstrates active listening, written, verbal and information technology skills.
• Knowledge of HIPPA, OSHA standards, and aseptic techniques

Desired Qualifications*

• Certificate of completion from an accredited dental assisting program
• Some knowledge of dental materials, dental instruments, and dental equipment.
• Familiarity with Axium dental record systems.
• Knowledge of University policies and procedures

Work Schedule

The work schedule will be Mon- Fri, 8 am - 5 pm. 

Work Locations

This position is onsite, located at the School of Dentistry at 1011 N University. 

Union Affiliation

This position is included in the bargaining unit represented by the United Michigan Medicine Allied Professionals (UMMAP), which represents bargaining unit members in all matters with respect to wages, benefits, hours, and other terms and conditions of employment.

Background Screening

The University of Michigan conducts background checks on all job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent offer and may use a third party administrator to conduct background checks. Background checks will be performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act.

Application Deadline

Job openings are posted for a minimum of seven calendar days. This job may be removed from posting boards and filled anytime after the minimum posting period has ended.

U-M EEO/AA Statement

The University of Michigan is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.

Moscow-Based Medical Ministries

Editor's note:   Tanis Walmsley's article is based on field research conducted in Moscow in the fall of 1995 for a course in Russian church history taught by Dr. Mark Elliott for the Russian-American Christian University.  The author and the East-West Church & Ministry Report realize that this survey is far from exhaustive.  It does, however, provide a striking range of examples of creative medical ministries currently under way in the former Soviet Union.

The Fellowship of Associates of Medical Evangelism Dr. William Becknell, a full-time missionary doctor in Moscow, works under the auspices of the Fellowship of Associates of Medical Evangelism. He has been in Moscow for three years and has his own clinic, the Agape Medical Center, located in the Scientific Research Institute of Pediatrics of the Russian Academy of Medical Science.  He treats both Russians and Americans and charges on the basis of need.  The medications he uses are imported from the West, mostly from Western Europe.  Dr. Becknell has been trying to raise more awareness of his project in Scandinavia and Western Europe because they are closer neighbors than the United States and it is easier to receive supplies from Europe.  Dr. Becknell has had difficulties getting medicines through customs.  He holds a weekly Bible study for doctors in the Agape Medical Center.  Previously his clinic offered English classes to doctors, but not at present.  The doctors greatly desire that English instruction will resume.

Evangelistic mobile clinics held all over Russia form the heart of Dr. Becknell's ministry.  Staying in each city for about 10 days at a time, he travels with a translator and works through local churches.  At times North American and Russian doctors have accompanied Dr. Becknell on his travels.  Before Dr. Becknell arrives in a city a Russian Protestant church prepares for his coming, arranging visits to various institutions in which to hold clinics, including orphanages, prisons, and hospitals. Dr. Becknell, who holds evangelistic meetings and distributes Christian literature in addition to holding clinics, sees evangelism as an essential part of his ministry.  Also, the connection with a local church is a prerequisite for him to work in a city, so that after he leaves there will be follow-up for new believers.  Community response has been excellent.  Many small home churches have started as a direct result of his work.  These home churches receive regular visits from Russian pastors who encourage and teach new believers.  Dr. Becknell frequently returns to the same areas so that people will sense his long-term commitment.

His short-term clinics have been held in Ukhta, Serpukhov, Yemva, Sevastopol, Ropcha, and many other locations.  He also has worked in prisons in Meekun, Yemva, Veslana, Sendor, and Trakt, and in numerous orphanages in areas such as Serpukhov, Kashira, Vodny, and Sosnogorsk.  Locations for clinics have included Moscow's First Children's Hospital, the Institute of Pediatrics in Moscow, St. George's Hospital in St. Petersburg, Veslana Central Hospital, and the Tula Health Center.

A number of Russian Christian doctors have responded with interest after hearing of Dr. Becknell's ministry.  These doctors want to learn how to become active in medical evangelism.  In 1995 in the Krasnodar area, Dr. Becknell held a three-day seminar for 14 Christian doctors, explaining how to conduct clinics.  Pastors already have agreed to accompany each of these doctors when they hold clinics.  Dr. Becknell has received invitations to hold clinics in Kiev, Ukraine; Minsk, Belarus; and all over Russia from Vladivostok to St. Petersburg.

The United Methodist Board of Global Ministries Christine Hena, a native of Liberia, is another Christian doctor based in Moscow as a full-time medical missionary.  She serves under appointment of the General Board of Global Ministries of the United Methodist Church.  Fluent in Russian, she did her medical training in Krasnodar and understands the Russian medical system from firsthand experience.  She also holds clinics, 10 days at a time, in remote areas such as Kashira, Belgorod, and Velikiy Ustiug.  Dr. Hena returns to Moscow between trips to collect supplies.  She assists paramedics and nurses in conducting continuing education seminars for nurses.  She also distributes Bibles at each clinic.  As a result, in areas where she goes regularly, small Bible study groups have formed.  In addition, she has helped plant a church in the southern Moscow district of Novoperedelkino.  She also coordinates travel for groups of Methodist doctors and dentists from the West who sometimes accompany her on clinic trips.  They stay in Russian and Ukrainian homes and have been extremely well received in the various communities.

In Moscow proper Dr. Hena is heavily involved in Children's Republican Hospital No. 3.  She has arranged for groups of Christian doctors from the United States to work with Russian doctors several weeks at a time.  Unlike many other medical missionaries, Dr. Hena has not had problems getting medical supplies through customs.  She has documentation from the Ministry of Health that allows her to receive materials without cost and without typical Russian red tape.  Also in her church in Moscow, Dr. Hena offers health care training to people in the congregation.  This is done so that they, in turn, can train others.  The health training is basic, ranging from what medications to use for simple ailments to how to take temperature and blood pressure.

NAZCOM Carla Sunberg of the Nazarene Church is a registered nurse whose work is largely in the area of medical personnel training.  Under the auspices of NAZCOM, a Nazarene humanitarian aid organization working in Russia, she and other nurses from Nazarene colleges in the United States developed a four-module program for continuing education.  Mrs. Sunberg and guest lecturers from the United States teach two-week nursing education modules in Russia, Ukraine, and Kazakhstan.  NAZCOM also has worked with Heart to Heart, a Christian organization based in Kansas, helping this group distribute millions of dollars' worth of medication throughout the former Soviet Union.

Carla Sunberg also has been active in developing a preventive dental care program for children.  She has arranged for visiting dentists to conduct training and demonstrations for Russian dentists on protective sealants for teeth.  She also gives presentations in public schools on dental hygiene.  Toothbrushes, toothpaste, and floss, donated by children in America, are distributed to the students.  In addition, she trains others in her church to conduct dental hygiene presentations in schools.  With the aid of several other U.S. nurses, Mrs. Sunberg also has helped the Nazarene Ministry Center to launch a stop-smoking program.

Seventh-day Adventist Health Care Center The Seventh-day Adventist Church Health Care Center in Moscow has both dental and rehabilitation facilities that are completely self-supporting.  Eight similar Seventh-day Adventist clinics are being established in Ukraine and several more in Uzbekistan.  The Moscow Health Care Center is a fully equipped, Western dental and physiotherapy facility open to the public.  A higher price-scale for foreign patients helps subsidize more affordable health care for Russian patients.  Sometimes dental care is given free of charge to Seventh-day Adventist church members who cannot afford to pay.  Their names are put on a waiting list and are worked into the schedule as time allows.  The Seventh-day Adventist Health Center also is equipped to handle rehabilitation for the physically handicapped.

The Adventist Health Care Center also holds monthly mobile clinics in communities within a two hours' drive of Moscow.  The Center has three fully mobile dental chairs, complete with all necessary equipment, obtained from a former U.S. Army base in Germany.  Mobile clinic teams usually consist of two dentists, two dental assistants, a health educator, and occasionally a physiotherapist, who do cleanings, provide instruction on dental care, insert fillings, and perform extractions.  The mobile clinic teams, which also hold evangelistic services, have had a good community response.

A vision to train Russians to train other Russians regarding personal health and temperance is a top priority with Seventh-day Adventists, who have a goal to appoint a temperance and health director for each of their 14 churches in Moscow.  Nadia Ivanovna, a temperance and health worker in one of the Moscow Adventist churches, has held training sessions on nutrition, smoking, drinking, stress, heart disease, and cancer not only in Moscow, but also in Kiev, Samara, Belgorod, Yaroslavl, Tula, and Riazan.  The Adventist alcohol prevention and treatment program has eight locations that offer treatment groups and follow-up.  Over two thousand people attended the two stop-smoking and stress-control seminars offered by the clinic.

The Seventh-day Adventist Health Care Center has a humanitarian aid document that allows it to receive medication from the West without problems with customs.  It has distributed over $100,000' worth of antibiotics and other medications to local health facilities since 1992.  In 1993 the Center and the U.S. Defense Department distributed 45 containers of medical equipment valued at more than three million dollars to seven outpatient facilities in Moscow.

Adventist training programs have included educational seminars on health principles, Christian ethics, and gynecology for over two hundred doctors from all over the former Soviet Union.  One four-day Adventist health education lecture series at Moscow's Olympic Stadium drew more than 8,000 people.  In May 1995, 76 dentists attended a two-week continuing education program on orthodontics conducted by the Adventist Health Care Center.

Pastor Yang Ping Pastor Yang Ping, a Korean missionary, leads a congregation based in one of the largest hospitals in Moscow.  This church has services two nights a week and small group Bible studies four days a week.  These are all attended by patients.  The church donates to the hospital medical supplies received from the West, such as antibiotics and bandages. Twice a week one of the Russians in this church goes through the wards, witnessing and praying with the patients who come from many different former Soviet republics.

This church's ministry is not limited only to patients.  It also teaches an "Introduction to Christianity" course to doctors from all over the former Soviet Union who are completing internships or other additional training at this hospital.  Through visitation, evangelism, church services, Bible studies, and the meetings with interning doctors, Yang Ping's congregation has given away over 7,000 Bibles.

The Kentucky/Russian Partnership The Kentucky/Russian Partnership, a Southern Baptist medical ministry, has arranged for teams of U.S. doctors, dentists, and eye and ear specialists to work in Russian hospitals in Tambov, Kazan, and Nizhny Novgorod.  Medical teams bring their own medical supplies for the duration of their time in Russia.  In the past they have had problems getting medical supplies through customs.  In fact, one Kentucky/Russian Partnership team brought large quantities of medications which never were allowed through customs and which had to be taken back to the United States upon their departure.

The Evangelical Christian-Baptist Clinic At the Russian Federation Evangelical Christian-Baptist Center in Moscow on Varshavskoe shosse, a Christian clinic headed by Dr. Victor Grishkevich provides free medications and consultations for its church members and their close relatives.  Russian doctors hold clinics Tuesday and Wednesday nights, with dental care available Monday through Thursday during the day and two evenings per week.

The Russian Orthodox "Miloserdye" Mission Lena Saltikova, a member of the Russian Orthodox parish of  Sts. Cosmos and Damian, leads a ministry called "Miloserdye" (Charity), founded by Fr. Alexander Men who was murdered in September 1990.  Begun some six years ago, parishioners work in the Children's State Hospital in a far south district of Moscow.  A group of about 20 to 25 people go to the hospital as often as their schedules allow, visiting, singing, praying with the children, and conducting a newly established Sunday-school program.  Many of the children in this hospital, who come from all over Russia, are terminally ill.  One of the most original aspects of this ministry is its art program.  One of the younger women from the mission is an artist who teaches the children.  Public exhibitions of the children's art have been very well received. The Orthodox volunteers are there, not only for the children, but also to support and help the parents in any way possible.  For example, when some of the children are well enough to go home, most of them still need to come to the hospital to obtain prescription medicines.  For parents who live out of town this is difficult.  To assist these families the mission delivers medications to out-of-town patients.  "Miloserdye" is looking for a sponsor so that it can expand its ministry.

Tanis Walmsley previously taught in Moscow under the auspices of Seattle Pacific University, Seattle, WA.  She currently is a graduate student in Russian studies at the University of Alberta.

Written permission is required for reprinting or electronic distribution of any portion of the East-West Church & Ministry Report .

© 1996 Institute for East-West Christian Studies ISSN 1069-5664