Hi I need some advice from experienced dental assistants, or even anyone that may give some advice. I will try to make this short even though it seems hard because I have so many things going on at the same time.
I have been a dental assistant for 15 years with a gap of 5 years unemployed because I was ill with an autoimmune disease. I was finally able to get Job as a dental assistant still getting paid the same I made 8 years ago I’m content considering the situation. My dilemma is that where I work there is no room or opportunity for growth, no benefits just paid 2 weeks vacation and sick days. We get free dental treatments, that’s about it.
I did some research and found out that my pay is way below average for my years of experience in the area I work at. I feel unappreciated by my coworkers, there is a lot of animosity is the clinic, and I believe this is because we are all women no man here. I really enjoy working with the female doctor I work with, she is the nicest dentist I have ever worked with, but her staff is ruining it for me as I am the new one here and the manager doesn’t like me. I’m still employed because the doctor owns the clinic and I sense she appreciates my assistance.
I feel torn between several feelings of wanting to grow and move on, and the fear of trying a career change that I may later regret and or not be able to accomplish because of my language barrier. I can’t afford to go to college as my daughter is soon going to college and my husband and I just bought a home, beside I’m so pass the curve for college. I’m at a 7th grade math and language level to give you an idea, as my first language is Spanish.
I thought about getting some training for nitrous sedation and maybe taking a course in Billing and coding to make myself more appealing to employers, but I realized that my career choice has a pay limit and may be shooting myself by adding more skills that would add more work for me in the future and never get paid more than a certain amount.
What would you advise for me be. I realize that wherever I go it will be the same office environment because dental offices are full of women mainly and my previous experience with male doctor never went well. I hate the “good old boys club” environments and to me it’s something I would never want to go back to.
Sincerely feeling hopeless.
Hello Henca Smith Its important for you and focus on your job and i know you're feeling are so down but don't be upsad still and work for more time and get a lot of dental experience And After few Months You can Apply for a job and u take a Good Opportunity Places And Good Environment And Good Boss So You Kick off this Job...
Hello, I would focus on what is important, and that is your job. Once you focus on your job you sre able to learn more and become an asset to the company . I not really familiar with the dental industry but you might need to take some classes to move up.
Ur their to work i wouldnt allow anyone to make me feel that way. At times u draw a line. Ur their to make that paycheck by doing ur job and doing ur job 100 %. Ignore and stick to urself. Learn the business run it and wen u do let the dr kno y ur disconnected ask for a raise and a promotion if u get it fine be u run that office. I kno its nice to work in an environment that is happy but the dr needs to weed out the rotted roots and u can help do just that. Be a leader do not follower u can take that office over with ur work supercede everyone and make it a point to learn and run it all be everywhere and do everything. U will be indispensable.
I started as an assistant back in 2003. Whenever it got slow I went up to the front desk to help out. Eventually I ended up at the front desk, however, when they needed me in the back, off I went to take an FMX or impressions. I understand what you are saying about the cap on pay. I had to demand a raise because of the work I did for the office. Maybe you should look into working at a specialist's office. Perio/ Endo / O.S. or something like that. The fact that you are bilingual should be a plus. If you want more, definitely pray about going to school because you are never too old to get more knowledge. By the way, if you speak the way you type I see no barrier!!
Many blessings will come your way. You have overcome an illness and got back into the swing of working! Never feel hopeless. If your "cup" if full maybe it's time to get a new one!!! Have faith. It will be fine!!!
I would like to thank all the employees of the company. and always with the help of creating the job I am thankful to friends, especially Ashley, who always call me how to create a job and then I'm asking you to get a new job company so I want you to work with me you have a great deal of interest in joining big companies that support small businesses and advertisers on any page and in any newspapers and companies. somalia needs this type of printing and advertisement to create stekers on printing capsules. etc. please share thanks
Sometimes bad bosses, or in this case bad staff can ruin a job and make folks leave
Hi Henca, I stayed out of school for a long time. But this burning desire stayed in my heart. I went back and started a GED program first. Then I went to Kenndy king community college in Chicago, from their I went on to Chicago State University studying Occupational Therapy, but my BS degree is in Health Science. I graduated last year. I am seeking a role as a case manager, specialist or coordinator after putting in many applications. I have 2 degrees now and I believe that God is going to put on one of these hiring managers heart to give me a chance for a better opportunity , stability and growth. Please go on Fasfa.gov after you pray and ask God what is his will for your life. I never had to pay for books , SEOG Grant's, MAP Grant's and scholarships help me paid for college especially after earning a GPA of 3.7 community college and 3.8 University. I wish you the best of luck. Pray for your coworkers but don't you leave right now. You can go to college if you want to . My two sons and I did it. Put your top hat on and let's get to work. Good luck to you .
Check and see if you qualify for financial aid for college for both you and your daughter. Go out to the FASA website, fill out the application. The worst that can happen is you get told you dont qualify.
In the work front, if your uncomfortable there now due to cattiness amongst the staff, get out now. It's not going to get better, it will only get worse and it's not worth your dignity and mental health to deal with a toxic work environment.
I'm not in the dental field, but I think a little additional training in the areas you mention would be attractive to dentists. Not all office environments are toxic, either. If you're unhappy where you are, I would explore other options. And the fact that you're bi-lingual should be a real plus.
From the standpoint of someone with 20+ years of experience and a 2 year gap because of a chronic condition, I can empathize with you! I am currently trying to re-enter the workforce and it is incredibly hard.
I believe one influencing factor that you didn’t mention is how long have been back to work? That can make a huge difference in what direction you should take. It’s important that you establish some longevity before you begin looking for another practice, since you want to show that you are able to work consistently, even with your condition, and you need to re-establish a reference base.
If school is an option, and you have the time to dedicate to your studies, then I would pursue that absolutely. Furthering your education is not only a way to increase earning potential, it is great for your own personal growth.
Perhaps instead of pursuing the specialty training, look into business administration courses and pursue a position as a practice manager to increase your income potential. Those courses can also lend themselves well to a general office environment, which opens up opportunity outside of the dental field.
Very best of luck to you!