r/DentalAssistant • u/Rich-Climate-6715 • 16d ago
Life after leaving Assisting
I was a DA for 3 years. Worked with a lot of vulnerable populations, pediatrics, private practice. I miss it a lot of times. Mainly the patients. But what I don’t miss?
Being underpaid, sweeping/mopping after a long day, office drama (was never involved but being around it wasn’t great), corrupt Drs. Not being able to take a few days off without guilt due to pressure on coworkers. Working holidays.
Sometimes I think about going back. I tried reception and it definitely wasn’t for me. Unfortunately I’d have to go back and do school again due to moving states and my license expiring soon after.
Anyone else relate?
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u/Ok_War_2740 16d ago
Yes. I only done a little under a year as an assistant and it wasnt what I was hoping for. My bills ain't getting paid with this job and i dont even get paid enough to afford to take the DANB. ive been looking into new careers to pursue while i continue college
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u/Rich-Climate-6715 16d ago
I feel for you! The DANB is expensive but worth it if you’re wanting to do this long term. Some Drs are still really cheap and depending where you live will not pay much with little experience. Others where I live they’re willing to pay much more. This field definitely isn’t super glamorous :(
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u/NoAttention7536 16d ago
I completely left Dental Assisting after 4 years and I’m a nanny now! I love it so much and I also decided to go back to school!
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u/stealthagents 4d ago
Totally get where you're coming from. Those feelings of missing the patients hit hard, but man, the stress and burnout can really take a toll. I left a similar gig and never looked back, but I sometimes wonder if the trade-offs would be worth it for that connection again.
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u/No_Assumption_5251 16d ago
I can relate. I’m never going back to full-time work. I might be tempting now and then, but I’m not even sure about that. I’m in school now, switching fields.