How young dentists and dental assistants can work better together

In this episode of the "Dental Assistant Nation" podcast, I was 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.

Matthew Nelson

During our conversation, we discussed 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.

You can listen to the podcast by clicking here or hitting the Play button below.

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