Episode 322: Tips for dental assistants who are working with young dentists

In this episode, Dental Assistant Nation founder Kevin Henry is joined by Matthew Nelson, a practice analyst with the California Dental Association, to discuss how dental assistants can help new dentists get comfortable in the practice. They cover topics such as the role of the dental assistant as a leader, the importance of trust and communication, establishing leadership and handling differences, working at the right speed for efficiency and patient comfort, adapting to generational differences, the value of face-to-face communication, understanding the worries and pain points of new grad dentists, the expectation of new technology, and the importance of appreciating and developing dental assistants. Takeaways Dental assistants can play a crucial role in helping new dentists get comfortable in the practice by providing guidance and support. Trust and communication are key factors in building a strong relationship between dental assistants and new dentists. Adapting to generational differences and understanding the unique challenges and preferences of new dentists can contribute to a more harmonious work environment. Face-to-face communication is essential for effective collaboration and avoiding misunderstandings. Dental assistants should be aware of the worries and pain points of new grad dentists and offer support and understanding. New dentists often expect new technology and innovative approaches in the practice, and dental assistants should be prepared to adapt and learn. Chapters 00:00 — Introduction and Background 01:22 — The Role of the Dental Assistant as a Leader 02:26 — The Importance of Trust and Communication 04:23 — Establishing Leadership and Handling Differences 05:25 — Working at the Right Speed for Efficiency and Patient Comfort 06:48 — Adapting to Generational Differences 10:14 — The Value of Face-to-Face Communication 11:38 — Understanding the Worries and Pain Points of New Grad Dentists 13:42 — The Expectation of New Technology 14:29 — The Importance of Appreciating and Developing Dental Assistants 15:38 — Closing and Contact Information