Episode 382: What Every Aspiring Dental Assistant Must Know To Be Successful

Dental Assistant Nation

Most people have no idea what dental assistants actually do — and it’s costing the profession trust, talent, and respect. In this episode, Dr. Mark Thoreson pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to become a successful dental assistant — from the truth about patient trust to the soft skills no one’s teaching. You'll hear how his weekend training program in rural Wyoming is filling clinics with confident, skilled assistants, all while fighting myths that dental assisting is just suction and charting. We get real about hiring challenges, hands-on education, and how new technology like AI and 3D printing is creating massive opportunities for assistants who are ready to grow. If you're entering the field or leading a team, this conversation gives you a grounded, inspiring look at what modern dental assisting is all about. Connect with Dr. Mark Website: https://www.inflatrix.com/ Wyoming Professional Training, LLC: https://www.wyprofessionaltraining.com/ —-------------------------------------------- Hey friends—cool news! The Dental Assistant Nation Podcast was featured on Feedspot’s Top 100 Dental Podcasts and their Top Dental Assistant Podcasts list. Huge thanks to you for listening, subscribing, and supporting the show. Couldn’t have done it without you. Go check it out—we’re listed alongside some amazing shows! 100 Best Dental Podcasts - https://podcast.feedspot.com/dental_podcasts/ 4 Best Dental Assistant Podcasts - https://podcast.feedspot.com/dental_assistant_podcasts/ —-------------------------------------------- 🎤 I’m Speaking at Accelerate: The Dental Revenue Workshop! Accelerate is where the brightest minds in dental revenue come together — and I’m heading to Nashville to share insights that will challenge, inspire, and help practices grow. 🗓 Date: July 31 - August 1 2025 📍 Location: Nashville, TN 🎟 Grab $150 off your ticket with my code: KevinH If you’re ready to level up your systems, strategy, and revenue, this is the event you don’t want to miss. I’d love to see you there! Let’s make this the most impactful dental event of the year. See you in Music City! 🎶 —-------------------------------------------- Attention Dental Leaders! I'm thrilled to speak at the 2025 AADOM Conference in Round Rock, TX – AADOM's 20th anniversary celebration! Join me for my sessions: ㅤ ➡️ Wednesday, Sept 3 "DPLN Leadership Meeting" - Learn how to maximize publicity for your DPLN ➡️ Saturday, Sept 6 "Simple Steps to Help You Become an Author " - We'll dive into how you can formulate a plan for your best article and how to find your voice as an industry leader. Early bird pricing ends 3/31! Don't wait—secure your spot now and be part of the biggest dental management event of the year! Plus, lock in your stay on-site at the Kalahari Resort before rooms fill up! 📅 September 4-6, 2025 📍 Kalahari Resort, Round Rock, TX Register now at aadomconference.com 🔗