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As we prepare to ring in the New Year, it’s a good time to take stock of all that you’ve achieved and what goals you plan to set for 2015. Now is a great time to be in the oral health care field. As a profession, dental assisting is reaching new heights. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, dental assisting is one of the fastest-growing occupations — and is expected to grow 25% between 2012 and 2022. With so many opportunities, make the most of the next year by setting your sights on one or more of these career goals.
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2. Climb the career ladder in your state
Each state has different requirements for dental assistants. If you’re looking to take on more duties or perform additional functions, you’ll want to see the education, exam and experience requirements that are required. To learn more, visit the Search-by-State map on DANB’s website. Here, you will be able to review the job titles in each state, check the requirements at each level, and download a chart with the allowable and prohibited duties.
3. Pursue lifelong learning
When it comes to achieving your career goals, continuing education (CE) is key to getting you there. Whether your goal is to earn or maintain DANB certification, move up the career ladder, or shift into a different role in the office, education is key. If you’re looking for a convenient way to learn at your own pace and on your own schedule, the DALE Foundation, the official DANB affiliate, may be the answer. The DALE Foundation offers several interactive online courses on a variety of topics. You can find courses to help you earn CE at home or prepare for DANB certification. To learn more, visit the DALE Foundation’s product catalog. And if you’re not sure which direction you’d like to take your career, the DALE Foundation’s “Your Career as a Dental Auxiliary” free course can show you the possibilities!
The new year is an exciting time, full of potential. To learn how DANB and the DALE Foundation can help you, visit www.danb.org and www.dalefoundation.org.
