Day In the Life of a NEW DENTAL ASSISTANT 🦷 || LAST week here

[@LorenaMartinez21]

As a RDA it is really upsetting to see all these negative comments being made! She said she is a fairly new dental assistant and we should all remember how it was when you first started in the field! It takes times to learn everything everyone makes mistakes! This is something I hate about the dental field other dental assistants being bullies! In the dental field team work is important! As a lead assistant I always make sure to teach any students that come to learn or new assistants as much as I can!

[@Savli94]

Lorena, this is a much needed comment. Sometimes people are mean because they have nothing else to do. I'm new to this field as well, this is my second week and learning everything is taking some time and lots of practice. I want to be at my coworkers level now and am making mistakes but will hopefully learn from them all.

[@MelanieLunaDiaz]

Thank you Lorena. It’s RDA’s like you who really make this field more enjoyable. It’s no fun when you’re around a whole bunch of mean girls in this field, making it seem like high school all over again. Keep up the good work 🙌🏽🙌🏽💕

[@alexandrianguyen766]

You remind me of an assistant I currently work with now. She used to be a lead assistant at her old office where I did my externship 6 months ago. After i graduated, she reached out to my professor if I would like to join her at the oral surgery office we both are currently working at. She is so down to earth and very understanding like you are Thank you Lorena for your words of encouragement! Much needed when you still feel lost in the field.

[@k.n.8833]

I did my externship and the lead was such a B to me but very nice to the other chick. I was like wth. She always had an attitude with me. She made so many mistakes herself and always acted like she was better.

[@Nicole-rq8ix]

I’m just starting out with my first DA classes, hoping to be an RDA. Is bullying a common problem in this profession? Should I be worried or prepare accordingly?

[@HarmonyCecilia]

I finally passed my DAT exam after all the stress.I thank God for the great opportunity and my tutor Thomas 🎊🎊🎉🎉 All my prayers to those struggling to pass through DAT cause it hasn't been easy.I hope y'all make it some day too Amen🙏

[@SarahSarah-gb6dv]

I failed 3 times, i lost money to reviews that never helped but the major thing is that I've not lost hope

[@LoveJessica-dh1fn]

Passing the DAT is when you study hard,if you can't study or you don't have time for your studies I'd advise you get yourself help like Mr Thomas

[@SarahSarah-gb6dv]

I had interest in working with him but I was discouraged by my friends out of ignorance 😔

[@SimoySimon]

I have a cousin who never studied much,we studied together but she gives most of her time to her phone than studies after writing DAT last month, she passed and I failed😣, I asked her how she did it, just found out she got her help from Mr Thomas ..

[@LoveJessica-dh1fn]

Sometimes hard work doesn’t pay you have to back it up with smartness🤓, I think your cousin understood that perfectly

[@sidneyeiman4790]

As a person wanting to become a dental assistant this is so cool and nice of you to show us upcoming assistants a demonstration. This video helped so much!!

[@MelanieLunaDiaz]

I’m glad it helped! Thank you 😊

[@WintersGold94]

I agree 100% and I am so excited to start my classes next month🎉🎉🎉

[@titanicgirl774]

@@WintersGold94 How are classes going? I'm about 6 months into my dental assisting program and I love it.

[@Aireanna04]

Yesss, I’m looking into it, but im not sure… what if im not good enough 😭

[@Slim1beauty2]

@@WintersGold94how did it turn out for you ? I’m considering it

[@patriciam4685]

RDA’s are one the most under appreciated medical professionals. They deserve more credit for the work they do.

[@kristianascharrenberg9958]

Amen

[@lashaundabonds9574]

Yessssssss!! We do 90% of the doctors work! I speak from experience and as a LEAD. Some doctors can be sooooooo LAZY!!! But don’t like to pay you what you’re worth!

[@pipersphynx4349]

@@lashaundabonds9574 so true. I had to leave dental assisting after 1.5 years because $13/hr wasnt cutting it anymore for 4 days a week.

[@pipersphynx4349]

@John Doe I guess it depends on who you work for and which state. I worked for some old dinosaurs that paid us really low. I'm sure some of the newer dentists that are opening up new practices with advanced technology probably pay more, but yes that is how much I got paid :( .

[@DAMCR]

Preach !!!!!!

[@milicarhuayo9538]

Hi , I been a DA for 20 yrs plus & truthfully I’m still learning every day , Thank God for this generation of DA’s , every where you go know that you all are special , & no matter where u find urself assisting always do it with perfection, Don’t be afraid to ask that is how you learn ,be passionate for what you do , & believe me you will find yourself be more content than ever .. 😇 & most of all give yourself grace when mistakes are done cause that is part of the learning experience... blessings

[@janr.1077]

I'm just joining the dental field. It blesses me to see comments like from someone who's been in dentistry so long! 😃

[@thunderbirdice]

I just started the job for two weeks with no prior training. Learning on the job.

[@najmashams9276]

Pleaee tell me is a good or stressfull job? How is it for new grads?

[@donniebloxez8091]

How has it been if you don’t mind telling

[@samistarr5]

Girl!!! We are exactly the same. I always listen to Christian music on the way to work. Always pray I don’t make mistakes that day. Only do my eyebrows and eye makeup cause that’s all anyone sees 🤣 And I’m obsessed with the office! Orthodontic Assistant here. Not sure how your video was recommend but I’m glad it was 😊

[@MelanieLunaDiaz]

Ayyyyyy great minds think alike!!! 😁😊💕 nice to have an ortho assistant sister in christ 🙏🏽

[@neff1215]

Did you have to take an extra course for ortho assistant ?

[@samistarr5]

Neftali Carrera not all. I was blessed to find an orthodontist willing to train me on the job. But my coworkers who went to school for dental assisting were taught in all areas of the dental field including ortho. Hope that answers your question!

[@neff1215]

@@samistarr5 yeah it does! I’m at an office that does endo, implants, etc but I wanna learn ortho. I just don’t have time to actually learn while working.

[@sesendawit3126]

@@samistarr5 hey I know this a year late but did you have to pay for the training and all that? Could please share me deep details.

[@cierradelacruz1248]

I’m currently in the process of getting my certification to become a dental assistant too! I had no idea what to expect and I can definitely say that this video has been super helpful!

[@marletteelkin9762]

I think U can do this

[@pufficoils]

Welcome to the dental field! I recently made a year as a CDA and I love it. This field is definitely a learn as you go and each office is different. I wasn’t great at the beginning, but I’m still willing to learn.

[@kenziegarza4508]

Hey girl a reminder to wear gloves when touching things that are supposed to be sterile! Like the cotton rolls, gauze, and the hand piece. And especially after you turned all of the machines on and touched the instruments in the autoclave.

[@valentinluisperezcarlos9932]

I like to wear my gloves and use my pickups for anything I'm picking up

[@rachaeltaylor5387]

I'm a dental nurse in the UK. Yes shes a new dental nurse but whoever's is training her needs to teach her the basics..ie, WEAR GLOVES WHEN HANDLING INSTRUMENTS!.. Remembering cross infection protocols are a must.

[@nataliemaust2617]

Make sure your new office lets you use gloves when handling anything sterile!! Especially shouldn’t be touching the autoclave without gloves on!

[@k.n.8833]

The place I externed at they hardly used gloves in the lab area. I thought they were pretty dirty people. And touching alot of things with bare hands.

[@nataliemaust2617]

K. N. So gross! I’m glad you know better!

[@heritage.home.crochet]

I guess it depends on your routine. In DA school we were taught to wipe down the Autoclave with Cavi after placing dirty instruments inside so it could be unloaded without gloves on. So everyone is a little different. But she could have at least showed herself putting on hand sanitizer after that hahaha

[@JoviieBabiie]

Gloved= dirty in my office. My boss would pass out if I touched sterile things with gloves because she’d think they were dirty

[@yelenagurevich9541]

I have been an RDA, for almost 20 years. Your lab should be divided in dirty and clean area. You shouldn’t touch door of autoclave without gloves- it’s dirty, you shouldn’t touch dirty pouches with instruments in autoclave- it’s dirty, ultrasonic mashine- shaker is always dirty, cold sterile container is dirty outside. Gloves 🧤 🧤 gloves always.

[@drmrsthepickles0805]

Please do NOT touch the ultrasonic or the autoclave WITHOUT gloves!!! Those are the dirtiest machines in your office.

[@emilyh5553]

Was just gonna comment on how she literally grabbed a dirty steri bag without gloves 😵

[@teresapistor6251]

Our machines are not dirty on the outside (we wear gloves to put the trays in the take them off, alcohol our hands then close then close the door and press buttons.) she’s not gonna die if she touches the inside without gloves :) I have a few times and you just alcohol hands after

[@kenziegarza4508]

@@teresapistor6251 You really shouldn’t touch anything on your dirty side without gloves! It’s just good infection and disease control.

[@teresapistor6251]

@@kenziegarza4508 yeah I know, with covid gloves are really hard to get and expensive so if we need to move the dirty stereo bags on to a different tray we won’t use gloves, just alcohol after. It’s not gonna kill you

[@kenziegarza4508]

@@teresapistor6251 yeah, you keep saying that. Doesn’t make it any less gross!

[@allisona7076]

I just started my first day as a DA and I feel comfortable watching your videos and not so alone in my mistakes and being a newbie 🥺 thank u, Melanie

[@MelanieLunaDiaz]

Awe!! I am so Glad I helped 🥺🥺🥺 goodluck with your career girl 😭💕

[@dianaferdinand2926]

I just started Dental Assisting this semester and watching your videos give me strength to keep going🙏🏾💕

[@MelanieLunaDiaz]

Aweeeee!! That means alot to me 😖❤️ I’ll be praying for you girl 😁

[@janr.1077]

Same here! I'll be starting in 2 wk.😄

[@dianaferdinand2926]

Melanie Luna-Diaz Thank you girl!! I am praying for you too🙏🏾🥰

[@dianaferdinand2926]

Jan R. Yayyy 💃🏽🙏🏾

[@izabellorchard1453]

Same girl!!! We got this

[@juanp2540]

im a dental assistant in los angeles. I have almost a year with the current company I’m in and recently got a promotion to Floor Supervisor 🙏 I remember struggling so much at first at my extern and at my first office. Didn’t give up I tried working at a pediatrics office and loved it learned so much there. To anyone struggling out there just keep trying don’t give up, give it your best everyday! ask questions if your not sure, take notes of everything. Always be a couple steps ahead of the Dr. Customer service is very important & Communication is KEY to a successful back office flow

[@rebeccapaul434]

I love how your office takes the patient’s blood pressure! I haven’t seen one office do that since I’ve been out of school 3 years ago

[@wendyc1751]

I’m training to become a dental assistant with no experience at all I’m nervous and scared but at the same time excited these videos help a lot of what to expect

[@MelanieLunaDiaz]

I’m glad that helped!!! And don’t worry you’ll get the hang of it!!! Wishing you the best girl 😊💕

[@ceecee98]

I graduated as a dental assistant last month & started my new job at a clinic a few weeks later I love these videos 😍

[@charandaquattlebaum]

How do you like it? Was it worth it?

[@courtneygray7985]

I love this I'm a new dental assistant as well but haven't gone back since covid I have a child and no one to watch him but I miss working sooo much its so fun I miss the interactions with the people and seeing them leave happy especially if they get a new crown or new dentures its the best feeling I worked at a non profit dental office in the Bayview its a low income based neighborhood and we are the only dental office in that area

[@jesusdiaz5008]

As a non dental assistant, I’m genuinely entertained by you 😍 ❤️ keep up the hard work beautiful!

[@MelanieLunaDiaz]

Jesus Diaz thank you my biased husband 💕

[@kyeshameshell6912]

i’m a dental assistant but i assist in just treatment and I think it’s so interesting how different offices do different things !

[@kaoubej2706]

Kyesha Haynes I think it depends of the state you live in. Depending on the states, dental assistant can do some expanded functions. I live in Minnesota and here it is the state that allows the most expanded functions for the dental assistant to do and we are also among the best paid

[@samanthastanley1073]

I’m a dental assistant too!

[@imaneennabihi151]

@@samanthastanley1073 please how can I study it for free ??

[@mckinzidoyle7539]

Hello I’m thinking about becoming an dental assistant. How is it ?

[@kyeshameshell6912]

kaou bej i didn’t know that ! i’m actually going back to school for EFDA and i’m excited 😭‼️

[@lasash9813]

It’s interesting to see others morning routine. 🙂 I personally have to put on my PPE after I clock in and before I touch anything even though it is disinfected, any who I enjoyed this video !

[@thunderbirdice]

I just started my job for 2 weeks and we don’t need to wear full PPE but definitely gloves when handling the sterile area. It’s a must where I work. If I don’t I will get called off.

[@lcknky]

I love seeing different offices 😍 the one I work in is older and we have yellow light, it makes it not look as crisp and clean as other offices. I’m so wanting to switch to another office but it scares me having to relearn different ways the drs work/different equipment.

[@ashfaqijaz4061]

Hello

[@tayxenia7481]

We’re called dental nurses here in the uk ! Everything’s fairly similar, I swear I hate this job tho 😭🤣

[@norma-970]

Why im thinking of getting into ig

[@fuffygoodaz]

Amennnnnnnnn

[@tayxenia7481]

@@norma-970 whats ig

[@norma-970]

@@tayxenia7481 i meant to say why am thinking of getting into it. Sorry

[@tayxenia7481]

@@norma-970 don’t lool if you’re from the uk.. maybe do nursing associate instead

[@hawaiianrussian1047]

I’ve been a DA now for 7 months. Yes I know it’s not that long, but previously I used to work as a construction laborer for 5 years and before that a roofer since I was 17. I slipped my disc deadlifting at the gym and unfortunately ended up losing my job as a laborer. I’m currently still in physical therapy but when I first started working at a dental office being literally the only male working in there all of my coworkers kept telling how tiring it is having to constantly “run around” the office assisting everyone…..although yes this is a very meticulous and at times a little stressful job….I don’t know if it’s because of how physically demanding and draining ny previous careers were but this is actually one of the easiest jobs ive ever had. I see so much videos online and comments on how stressful and physically demanding this job is. I am not at all putting down this field ( obviously with me working in it 😂) but rather opposite I actually enjoy this field because it’s so much less physically stressful for me. I genuinely don’t know if it’s just because I’m one of the rare men that’s a DA but I can honestly say this is one of the easiest jobs I’ve ever had lol

[@SuperNakedTv]

I'm thinking about switching from roofing to something less demanding, medical field is full of females so it makes me lil nervous since idk if they will hire me. 😬 plus I got tattoos nothing crazy but yeah.

[@hawaiianrussian1047]

@@SuperNakedTv bro I’m tatted to and it ain’t a big deal trust me. Getting use to the minor pay decrease sucked but honestly physically this job is so much more less stressful and honestly after I do feel better overall. Construction is awesome and I do miss it but physically as a laborer it was taking a toll on me. It’s worth it in the long run bro.

[@SuperNakedTv]

@@hawaiianrussian1047 I'm not making crazy money now but honestly what I like about it is that yeah maybe less money but you'll get benefits wich is something that slacks in the construction industry. We only get holidays and for medical we pay out of pocket wich is like 150 a week. But thanks I'll call my local spot to take the courses and see how it goes. That pay cut will be something to get usto but I'm tired of lifting shit and being on roofs and inhaling bad shit on a daily.

[@hawaiianrussian1047]

@@SuperNakedTv you Union? I was Union for local 3 here in Hawaii so I actually had pretty decent benefits 😔 but overall this job physically is much less stress and I feel better overall and fitness and mma was always my passion so not being so physically exhausted after work now has allowed me to actually get back in shape. Construction was very physically demanding and yea I hated being tired and sore after work

[@SuperNakedTv]

@@hawaiianrussian1047 sadly my job isn't union so I don't get those extra benefits and I'm in new york so we work year round. Cold hot or snow or rain we always working and we do copper work so it's alright but not worth it in the long run, I really wanna get a indoor job but don't wanna just be some warehouse worker. Yeah I always wanna hit the gym but sadly I can't because I'll be exhausted by the end of the day. I'm gonna look at the local trade schools and try and see what they need In order to start the course and soon after look for a job.

[@Jennisis22]

Seeing all this done without gloves freaks me df out

[@katiefasel1160]

I start dental school in 2 weeks and I’m so excited! I’ve learned so much from watching your videos!

[@MelanieLunaDiaz]

Yay 🥳 I hope to keep helping as much as I can 😁

[@GabrielaxMota]

How is it?

[@thiasnow8942]

I’m actually studying to be a dental assistant right now! So I’m super excited!

[@fatimafettahi5683]

How’s it going for u

[@lisettehernandez4639]

‼️‼️‼️‼️‼️‼️‼️‼️‼️‼️‼️‼️‼️‼️‼️‼️‼️I’m going to be very honest I graduated from a D.A program and my grades were always 90-100 everything was easy for me and I was excited about the fact that I understood my tooth names, tooth numbers, instruments, I could assemble a tofflemire, syringe fmx and knew the procedures steps BUT in reality when I got hired to work at a dentist it was like I didn’t know anything the book is a book but hands on is totally different all the instruments that they used were new to me the doctor would tell me pass me #12 and I’m just sitting there and looking at all the instruments that I didn’t recognize not only that but every patient is different so let’s say 2 patient’s come in for an occlusal filling one might need more instruments/products then the other you just really have to get the hang of looking at the patients chart and studying seeing what kind of class filling it is and I always sucked at taking X-rays but now it’s getting easier I like it better with a nomad instead of a cone makes it faster but what keeps me going is the fact that I work at a dentist with a very nice patient doctor so he always encourages me even when I think I did bad all the da’s understand how I feel they all tell me they started like me not knowing anything but with time and effort it’ll get easier and before Ik it I’ll be very good at my job 😁This was never to scare you guys it’s just me saying it won’t be easy but as long as you guys are willing to learn and put effort you’ll get the hang of things! Don’t be hard on yourselves!

[@lorenaapostol4068]

Good luck, you do the best! GOD bless you, beautiful D.A.!

[@fonjadidi]

I'm glad we use names for our instruments rather than numbers, numbers are so much harder to remember than a name!

[@paoladecardenas4586]

The no gloves is killing me....

[@losthope98]

The no gloves and the wrist BP cuff killed me as a CNA...

[@emnarejeb4951]

Me too!

[@missyahximu7201]

Me too ☠

[@BarbieOZ]

I am also a new dental Assistant! Working in ortho, I love it so far and I’m working for a great company with a great team!

[@MelanieLunaDiaz]

I have heard good things from ortho assisting! And great to hear you’re having a good time ^.^

[@ShakiraLashay]

Currently in the Dental Assistanting program so this is pretty cool to watch!!

[@seanjenna5694]

I’m starting the program in about a week 😭

[@catarinaspinola8080]

Same

[@fatimafettahi5683]

@@seanjenna5694 how was it

[@claudyamacion-pointer9287]

I'm a USAF dental assistant and I've always been interested on how the civilian side does this compared to mil. I'm also jealous you don't have to get to work until 9:30. A girl could dream!

[@jenniferrenteria7214]

Hi! So interested in what it's like being a USAF dental assistant?

[@britaniihoeche6258]

I'm glad to see people correcting you here. It's extremely important to know when to use proper PPE. I do know some states allow you to be a DA without going to an accredited school which I see as a huge issue. Take the criticism into your new job and remember what you'd want as a patient yourself, good luck!

[@jazzytv099]

I’m graduating high school in June and I plan on starting my dental assistant program in July hopefully and I can’t wait! 🥰🥰

[@arianapreciado1975]

Good luck girly !! I start in two weeks !😭I’m super nervous but also excited !

[@jazzytv099]

@@arianapreciado1975 let me know how it went? 🤞🏽😁 I would love to hear back and check on how things went for you?

[@arianapreciado1975]

@@jazzytv099 for sure ! It’s only been two weeks and I’ve learned a lot already. I especially love the hands on stuff because you really get to have a feel of what it’s like working in a dental office and everything !

[@realreshaa.b]

how is it going ? i am really considering taking a step into the dental field so i’m watching all these videos to get me ready !

[@karinabarton6073]

Im studying to be a dental assistant here in Australia, this video just made me even more excited to join the industry🙂

[@MelanieLunaDiaz]

Ooooo Australia 🤗🤗 I hope you’ll enjoy it ^.^ and thank you :)

[@charlottef2604]

I am too!!

[@femkesnaauw9623]

everyone in the comments are so positive about the dental field lmao, I’m in my last year of school and I can’t wait to finish it and do something completely different because i hate it so much lol

[@sarahmarie9612]

i just got accepted into my dental program so ready! Cant wait till after the program and to start working

[@MelanieLunaDiaz]

How exciting! 🥳🥳

[@kristianascharrenberg9958]

As a dental assistant for 7 years..all I'm gonna say is make sure u become a hygienist

[@sarahmarie9612]

@@kristianascharrenberg9958 thanks yeah i didn’t make it passed 1st semester 🥺 my teacher lied to me saying a passed a skill but didn’t tell me till the last day that i failed it

[@tristanz6077]

@@sarahmarie9612 damn that’s messed up

[@sesendawit3126]

@@sarahmarie9612 updates?

[@luiscruz9486]

Former DA and recent dental hygiene student here 🙌🏾🙏🏾

[@teresitaaragon9419]

How’s your process going from DA to hygiene? Is it less classes to take?

[@chrystenamotto9044]

This video rocks!! Truly shows all us DA’s have to do everyday!! Thx u!! And love how u listen to Christian music and pray 🙏🏼!! Same girl!! Woohoo!! 🙏🏼❤️

[@allisona7076]

Hey. Just wondering as a new DA but how are y'alls management? Tomorrow will be my 5th day of work and the girl who hired me barely checks on me to see how im doing or just a simple courteous check up to see how im liking it (newbie DA no experience) and haven't set up my paycom or ID. I sterilize the instruments most of my work day and im trying to not feel discouraged :/

[@darleneramos9381]

You might want to start looking for a different office. For me I set up direct deposit very quickly, I believe the first day I started. Maybe your doctor or other assistants are super busy 24/7 that they don’t really check up on you. You can always try to ask if you can watch what they’re doing so that you can learn more or ask if they can teach you how to do certain things so that you start getting the hang of things! When I was doing my dental internship I also did mostly sterilization and I felt a bit discouraged because I wished I had done more around the clinic to get more hands on experience and be more familiar with procedures and have more experience and know what it’s really like to work in a real dental clinic/office. I was taught in dental school that you will just have to find the right office for you! I hope this helped you at least a little bit!

[@MelanieLunaDiaz]

I agree with Darlene Ramos! My new job set up direct deposit once payroll was coming, so maybe they are waiting for that. And maybe your manager doesn’t want to check up on you alot bc she thinks that might make you feel watched all the time. But yes I would ask if you could shadow and write down what they do. And if not, then yes, you should look for another office that will let you grow and learn.

[@luzcastillo2172]

Something very important should be to run the lines after an extraction and after every patient because, the spit back on the suctions is very gross. Good luck with your career and keep up the hard work 😊

[@MelanieLunaDiaz]

Agreed! We do run lines after extractions, I just didn’t get to film it xD but thank you 😊

[@michellerosas9661]

please don’t forget gloves, it’s super important. should always be on and constantly switched for your safety and others 🥺

[@lakiaf4106]

I am a DA. I finished school in mid 2019 and worked in an office for a year before deciding to move away from the field August 2020. Very interesting to see how the office you worked at did many things in-office. I enjoyed my time as a DA and I will continue to update my licenses but I likely will not work as a DA going forward. Best of luck to you!

[@cerealis_5432]

What is your next career choice?

[@Meepmerp830]

Why are you moving away from the field?

[@lakiaf4106]

I’m moving into the nursing field. While being a dental assistant was fantastic I feel for myself there are more opportunities in the nursing field for me to progress much more rapidly. The logical career path from a RDA is RDH and/or Dentist. Neither career is something I desire and the salary cap for a RDA isn’t high enough for my satisfaction. I’ve also always loved nursing so I’ll be suited well in the field too!

[@lakiaf4106]

Noelle Chang Dentistry is great. There’s so much knowledge I absorbed while being an assistant. The field has many pros. Unless you intend to become a RDH or a Dentist there will be a salary cap you won’t be able to move past though and I’m looking for more financially then what the assistant position has to offer. I’ll continue to retain my license as a backup but I am looking forward to the nursing field.

[@MelanieLunaDiaz]

You go girl! Dentistry isn’t for everyone long term. I too wanted to go to nursing school after hygiene school :P Best of luck to you too ^.^

[@fatimaalali7868]

Girl why did you just touch the dirty pouches inside the autoclave with you bare hands 😣😬😬

[@sagejames637]

And touch the cotton roll with her barehands as well

[@fatimaalali7868]

Poop Tween did she not get training? Shes dealing with cross contamination here that can effect patients

[@ariel-sc4en]

Because gloves are hard to get now and all she has to do is, get ready for this it’s a huge shocker, WASH HER HANDS. I know crazy right? We have 3 offices and we are allotted 10 boxes of gloves a month, so each office gets 3 boxes a month. We have to do a lot of things bare handed, just a lot of hand washing, we all crusty lmao

[@ariel-sc4en]

@Katie Noble OSHA has nothing to do with that. OSHA is for employee safety. COVID is draining all of our PPE supplies if I can save gloves which are like gold now by setting up my room with clean ungloved hands then we will.

[@ariel-sc4en]

@Katie Noble you thinking of the CDC. Where are y’all getting your gloves from? Like I said earlier it’s so hard for us to get some. I would love to be able to get the gloves we need. We’re allowed 30 boxes of gloves per month, we have 3 offices, 4 docs 7 hygiene 10 assistants.

[@Rone8Eleven]

I'm just here to represent the orthodontic assistants, rda/oap we are truly blessed to do what we do. :)

[@teresitaaragon9419]

How do you get into that???

[@marcellaselena6121]

I start a dental assisting program next month & i’m really excited! Why is this your last week at the dental office? 🦷💖

[@kgoffney2]

Good luck to you!! You'll do great ! Work hard, stay focused and most importantly, have fun 🤗🥰

[@MelanieLunaDiaz]

It’s my last week because I found a better job ^.^ good luck with school!! 💕💕

[@ladyhathor2499]

I swear it seems like all or most dental assistants are really pretty.😍 I know I can’t be the only one who noticed....

[@prettyassyenn]

You need gloves when using the auto clave 😭

[@corinnejaquet1005]

I’m dying about all the comments🤣 people are worried about her touching the ‘dirty’ pouches in the autoclave. But here in the Netherlands our instruments are only cleaned in a medical dishwasher. The only instruments that we put in the autoclave are things like extraction pliers and some other stuff. But before its goes in the autoclave it’s already been cleaned, just not sterilized.. I don’t know how ya’ll do that in America. Also here in the Netherlands it is forbidden to come to the practice in your dental clothes. But everyone there seems to be okay with that. Ever thought about the bacteria’s you will be taking with you when you already put you’re outfit on at home.. 🙄🤢

[@dianaslivo3191]

God bless you in your work I am a Dental Assistant so I so happy in my work thank Lord Jesus

[@MelanieLunaDiaz]

God is good! God bless you in your work as well sister 🙏🏽💕💕💕

[@sofiag4377]

Hey I’m curious how much do you make as a DA??

[@carleycensabella2098]

DA moving onto hygiene 🤙🏼 love the field

[@nata.7.7.7.]

Hows it going? Did you end up doing hygiene?

[@tiffanymonrad5047]

Looks like Giddings! I am starting my RDA classes October 10th. I can't wait! Thank you for the helpful videos☺️

[@BishimDeja]

just curious, you don't have to wear gloves when directly touching the cotton things that go in the patients mouth? I understand for the items that were in the package (although in sterile processing you still wear gloves)

[@isaachardy1088]

I love this! keep posting videos and killing it as a DA as someone starting at an office in two days, you both inspire & educate me

[@julyj25]

New sub here :)👋🏽. Love your channel Melanie and your personality. These videos really encouraged me to enroll as a Dental Assistant🥰I start next week and I'm nervous🙈🎉🎉 Keep it up, keep posting please💙💙💙💙

[@jojo2491]

so you touched dirty instruments in the processor with no gloves on then touched everything else someone needs a retraining ^^

[@rawgerwaters]

Yeah…

[@haleightaylor8076]

Try learning X-rays without the ring system it makes your life and the patients life way easier

[@stephaniee6848]

i just started my dental assistant class and I hope this helps bc it’s seems so hard😩

[@kgoffney2]

It may seem hard or seem overwhelming but stay focused and don't let anything get the best of you. I had my days where I've cried because I didn't know how I was going to get things done, but that's okay. Just try your best, and always ask questions, and if you feel you're stuck on something don't hesitate to ask for help from your instructor. You got this! Learn and enjoy the process. Especially in labs 🤗 the best part.

[@MelanieLunaDiaz]

Well said @KristenG

[@yahnessaYasharaal6777]

Hi Melanie, when you load instruments in the autoclave how many indicators do you usually use? 1 per cycle or 4 (one in each tray)?

[@Amari37-x1o]

It's enough to put one per cycle :)

[@MelanieLunaDiaz]

My office just uses one :3

[@Rhiles44]

I’m just jelly you start work that much later. At 9:15 I’ve been at work for three and a half hours already and I don’t leave till 5.

[@kellygutierrez6933]

At my place we’re 8-6 😭 but we only work 4 days a week so that’s good.

[@Rhiles44]

@@kellygutierrez6933 7-5 here, five days week! It’s grueling!

[@selenaa.7369]

Wow ! I didn’t know you had to clean ? Like vacuum or taking out the trash . Do dentist hired cleaning crew ?

[@rosehendley7745]

Awesome video! ❤️ can I ask where you got those scrubs from?! They look so cute and comfy!

[@MelanieLunaDiaz]

Thank you! These scrubs are from FIGS :D

[@eunicelaw2329]

I’m still in school for da1&2 can’t wait for my practicum!!! Then RDH In September 2021!!!

[@Jennisis22]

Congratulations and good luck!!!! I just finished externship last Thursday!! My graduation ceremony is in April ❤️❤️❤️

[@eunicelaw2329]

@@Jennisis22 thanks! Congrats to you too! Such an amazing field to be in 😌

[@amberb8075]

Can I ask those who chose a dental assistant as a career path, why? When did you decide that was the way you wanted to go and how did you go about it? Hope that isn’t too much to ask just curious because I’m considering but I’m in a difficult position as I haven’t yet got my high school degree. I’m 19 now but working on it! 💕

[@briebarcom2190]

I'm going into it because the hours and I will always have my weekends off in WA!

[@teresitaaragon9419]

@@briebarcom2190 ayeee WA gang

[@jaidafontenot4277]

not sure if you graduated yet or not, but I love helping people. i was originally in college for nursing but college just wasn't for me. i was struggling mentally and physically. so i started looking for other careers outside of college. Came across dental assisting and started searching dental assisting school and applied to one. When i started school... i was so interested in the work. i never could actually remember in school besides for a test but everything wouldn't stick after that. ig bc i'm so into this that i remember. I graduated at the end of November. I have a working interview tomorrow and i am freaking out lol. I hope this helps you. sorry for the long response, hope this helps.

[@Monica-il3rg]

I went into for the hours benefits and most places give you free dental thats a huge plus! I work princess hours Monday- thursday 8-430. Occasionally we finish early and get out 330. Dr usually buys us lunch, scrub allowance, can bring my kid to work if there's a daycare situation. I like helping people feel comfortable and being part of their smile transformation! There's advancement options i started as a DA now an RDA , OAP looking to pursue Hygiene in the near future. I been doing it for 10 years now. Hygienist make double the money half the amount of patients but their hands get more tired. I only have back pain when I slouch working on a child.

[@ArtemisQuinn_]

Im starting the program in the spring ! I’m excited !!!! 🥰🦷

[@0elli085]

How is it going? I'm thinking of doing it

[@KornesiaLaShae]

Don’t worry about the negativity. I enjoyed your video 👍🏽👍🏽

[@ginarenz1602]

Oh honey! Put a lid on that ultra sonic. Divide your sterilization area, it looks like you are setting up trays on the dirty side. 😞 and wear gloves. I love the barriers over the key board and mouse..great work ethic gf and awesome lab skills! Don't forget to run your lines! Xoxo

[@prettyinpink6159]

Do you think you will be a dental assistant forever or are you perusing more ? Do they pay you enough to live and save for more school?

[@MelanieLunaDiaz]

My ultimate goal is to be a dental hygienist 😏 but dental assisting is definitely paying me enough (with my new job) it also depends on cost of living where you live though.

[@prettyinpink6159]

@@MelanieLunaDiaz will I have a harder time getting a job if I take online school and get certified rather than going to a community and getting a diploma in dental assisting? I'm wondering because pen foster has a program where I can graduate in as little as 4 months but some diploma programs take as long as 1-2 years and I'm not sure if they see one as better education over another. I'm very serious about this but idk anyone in the industry who I can ask these questions to! Thank you for your response it means a lot to me :)

[@julikel08]

Here in the Philippines, its different and some asst they dont do their job or follow the protocols (some of them are nasty and lazy). I love the way you do your work and have a proper ethics the way you set up. And also the cleanliness is very important thing. Thumbs up to you.

[@bunneyrice8792]

I saw this when I was going into externship and now I'm a working RDA. I stayed at the place I did my hours but I recently quit from there and I'm trying to find a new place but it's hard when every place is different set ups different doctors that like things a certain way. I'm left feeling stupid because I feel like i dont know anything when I do. Does anyone have advice when it comes something like this. Do I just keep working where I'm at RIght now and try to learn their way?

[@C4ntrol]

I’m a male - senior in highschool. I’m considering becoming one. Any help tips? Should a male even bother

[@raingalan1730]

Question ⁉️ What could I do to be prepared while I wait to have my text book and workbook?

[@aishleyrose8444]

Pretty cool video. I would highly recommend you use gloves when locking the tubing for your ultrasonics...

[@soukaina_elmar]

Heyy, just a reminder, put youre hair up, remove nailpolish and wear handgloves 🤍

[@lilbrowngirlwithlocs4038]

Starts watching video...Immediately hits like after reading she likes to listen to Christian music 💕😊

[@doritatv]

how do you know which trays you need to set up for the procedure? like what to put on the tray

[@MelanieLunaDiaz]

LA COCINA DE DORITA good question! When I first started, I shadowed the other dental assistants and saw how they put together the trays together for different procedures. I wrote down every single thing in my notebook and would set up the trays according to that until I was able to do it by myself without looking :)

[@vanessak24]

hi girl, love the video, did you get your RDA right the way after finish school? Is RDA paying more than the DA right?

[@MelanieLunaDiaz]

Thank u ^.^ and it took me like about a month to get lisenced but only because The dental office I was interning at hired me already so I wasn’t in a rush to get registered cx

[@MelanieLunaDiaz]

And yes RDA’s get paid more than DA’s :)

[@lizcontreras3681]

Why arent you using gloves to start autoclave and to set up anything.. just saying.. infection control especially in these crazy times... i teach Dental assisting.. im very particular with this kinda stuff ... just watching out for you.. it only takes one time to get infected with something😉😊 but keep up the hard work!

[@Mrschickennuggets55]

Where you those scrubs?? They look so comfy 😭

[@jvsalas6915]

I am gonna start my journey as a da and I just am so excited wish me luck sistas in the field ❤️🤣

[@vcyukatie4014]

It helps me a lot to be familiar of seating trays for different procedures. Hopefully you make a lot of vids regarding seating trays for different dental procedures.

[@del.v]

Hi im looking more into dental assisting so do you find anything difficult being in this field and how is the work load?

[@kelseypierce2604]

Hi there. I’m still in school, becoming an EDDA (Expanded Duties Dental Assistant). I was just curious, but I’m fairly certain we were taught that only purified water can go into the ultra sonic cleanser. I was wondering, does this particular office have a sink that dispenses purified water?

[@raeganblalock4525]

Ultra sonic does nothing but vibrate the excess debris off, so it’s not necessary to use purified! Purified is required in the autoclave though, for sterilization. And you do the autoclave after the ultrasonic ☺️

[@cynthianunez444]

I’m starting Dental Assisting in 3 weeks and I’m super nervous because I have seen a lot of assistants with perfect white teeth... does anyone ever judge other assistants for not having somewhat perfect teeth? I have a grey front tooth that I’m embarrassed about 😔

[@MelanieLunaDiaz]

Cynthia Nunez you probably see many assistants with white teeth because they either had a passion for teeth since forever, or being around teeth so much made them improve theirs xD but honestly don’t be nervous, there were many assistants who’s teeth weren’t perfect (even with bad breath) , but patients don’t really judge. You might get some really superficial co workers though not going to lie. Being a DA, the first thing we notice (atleast everyone I’ve talked to) is the teeth now. 😅 but find yourself a good office with genuinely nice people!! Good luck girl and sorry If my input was doodoo :c

[@GirlofDivine]

Nope we don't I've assisted with crowns, root canals and fillings on my co workers. In fact it's the opposite they are like look in my mouth see if cavity present on # 4 for me.

[@terril1289]

Don't worry, you will always need to be wearing a mask now. No one will see your teeth!

[@thelifeofjackie594]

How do you know what is for what procedure ? I feel like I’m going to have a hard time with that 😭

[@MelanieLunaDiaz]

I saw what the other dental assistants had out when they had to do a certain procedure, and I would write all the instruments down in my journal. That way when it was my turn to set it up, I would know what to get :3 I know it’s super confusing at first , but YOU CAN DO THIS!!! :)

[@taylork97]

When setting up for the procedures do you already have all the instruments memorized or do you have a cheat sheet?

[@jacquelineestrada6509]

To be a dental assistant you should have all the instruments and material memorized if not i dont know what ur doing as a assistant...

[@MelanieLunaDiaz]

when I first started I actually had a cheat sheet xD like I would write all the procedures down step by step and all instruments needed for it. But now I a happy to say I have them memorized ^.^ ( I am 8 months in)

[@taylork97]

Melanie Luna-Diaz Thank you, I was just wondering how the process goes.

[@sabinakhalikov2499]

Jacqueline Estrada relax.

[@CR24k]

Sabina Khalikov seriously!

[@najmashams9276]

Please tell me is it a good or stressful job for new grads? I am in the sixth month of my program, still thinking about the actual job in the clinic.

[@allisonreich7520]

I just finished RDA school love watching your videos!

[@MelanieLunaDiaz]

Wow! Goodluck with everything and thank you sooo much ☺️☺️☺️☺️☺️

[@jasminlopez6353]

Never preload autoclave 🤦🏽‍♀️

[@baileyloves3466]

I finish the DA program in 3 months this is very motivating ✨

[@southernmedusa5143]

Hey, what program did you attend?

[@baileyloves3466]

Niya Ransom I’m going to Pima medical institute

[@southernmedusa5143]

@@baileyloves3466 & the program from start to finish was 3 months?

[@baileyloves3466]

Niya Ransom it is 8months total 😌

[@southernmedusa5143]

@@baileyloves3466 How's job search? Are you still in the dental field?

[@suvanaa]

Like so many others have mentioned, please wear gloves. When i saw you touching the cotton pads etc with your hands my face was like this 😳 In our office you pretty much need to wear gloves for absolutely anything, so a big portion of the work day is simply washing our hands and putting on new gloves.

[@kellypatrick5667]

What’s the difference between gloved hands and washed, clean hands ?

[@suvanaa]

Kelly Patrick the hands should be washed, clean and gloved at the same time, not one or the other, to keep everything as sterile as possible 😊

[@jejethiang6013]

In switzerland we always have the hair in a ponytail or bun as dental assistant..

[@mickelmendoza5592]

You need to wear gloves. Even if the instruments are clean or dirty. It’s not sanitary with you touching instruments from the autoclave without gloves on. In school you also are taught to set the room up with gloves on as well. You’re touching the high speed with no gloves. That high speed is going in the patients mouth. If I were you I would revise going over the rules OSHA again. Definitely wouldn’t want to walk in as a patient seeing an assistant touch everything without gloves. Specially during Covid your office should have higher protocols just saying.

[@MelanieLunaDiaz]

mickel mendoza yes I do agree that we should have gloves on, however, this office has a rule you could say that when you are setting up the room, do it without gloves because to them, everytime you have gloves on, they are dirty. From what I’ve seen, two offices so far do it like this. But i definitely feel more comfy doing it with gloves 👌🏽👌🏽👌🏽 thanks for the feedback though :3

[@angel.deleon]

Melanie is correct, I am a sterile tech and our office also says if your gloved up your dirty. I set all our rooms up without gloves as well.

[@mickelmendoza5592]

Angel Clark good for you ! But you also again are touching clean stuff with out gloves. Specially during covid, Patients are not going to be okay with that. Know that you’re touching stuff with your bare hands. You might say your hands are clean but to patients they don’t know if they are or not. But do what you want.

[@angel.deleon]

It's policy man... Don't get upset with us for following the rules of our clinics 🤷

[@mickelmendoza5592]

Angel Clark girl bye

[@kajalmalani2512]

Normally How many patients comes daily?? Or what is patients ratio? Because every patient you have to do all this sterile and cleaning. So I m just curious to know.

[@jess.babeees]

This was very helpful ! I’m currently in school for dental assistant 🥰🥰🥰

[@CanYouFeelThePowells]

Love the video, I used to assistant in general dentistry. I’m an orthodontic assistant now. But I’ve never been able to record at work due to rules and regulations.

[@stephanielaraa]

how do you become orthodontic assistant? that’s what i’ve been wanting to do

[@CanYouFeelThePowells]

Stephanie Lara honestly most places what you to have experience but some places will hire you without it and will be willing to train you. I’ll do a video explaining how to become one soon in details and with tips ❤️

[@MelanieLunaDiaz]

Nice! Do you like ortho better than general?? And awe yeah some offices are way stricter than others 😅

[@CanYouFeelThePowells]

Melanie Luna-Diaz yes I love ortho way better, we do all the work and work alone

[@lp1043]

Is taking patient intake forms hard? I’m a piss poor speller

[@kimberlyulloa3240]

How many hours did you use to work? In the Dental Assisant field, do you have to work full time, because I would love a part time?

[@ashleya373]

are those custom trays easy to make?

[@angelsilva5876]

Thank you for sharing your daily set up. I'll be joining the Dental field soon. 🙏😁👍