Fortunately for those who are interested in becoming a dental receptionist or dental clerk, there are no specific education requirements. Rather, a dental receptionist needs to possess the secretarial and office skills needed in a receptionist position. Read on to find out how to become a dental receptionist.
Becoming a Dental Receptionist
Through managing files and monitoring patient contact, a dental receptionist is an integral part of the dentist's office. They are responsible for the dental reception desk, greeting clients, and acting as liaisons between patients, dentists, and insurance companies.
Dental receptionists require no more than a high school diploma for employment, though several college programs offer advanced receptionist training. It is also beneficial to have a certificate in administrative work, specifically medical or dental administration, or another relevant field. In general, key dental receptionist skills include a good telephone manner, a strong understanding of concepts and terminology related to dentistry, and experience working with computers.
| Required Education | None mandatory; certificate and associate's degree programs in dental reception and dental assistance available |
| Projected Job Growth (2019-2029) | 4% for all receptionists* |
| Mean Salary (2019) | $30,050 for receptionists* |
Sources: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Dental Receptionist Education Requirements
If you're wondering how to be a dental receptionist but don't have a college degree, you're in luck. Dental receptionists typically only need a high school diploma. However, employers tend to favor applicants who have strong word processing skills and training in office-related tasks. Interpersonal communication skills, knowledge of filing systems, and typing skills are essential. Because every office has varying administrative standards, most preparation and training occurs on the job.
Some schools offer 1-year certificate programs specific to dental reception. The coursework in these programs gives students the office training that employers tend to look for when reviewing applicants. These programs teach students how to greet customers, perform common filing methods, operate telephones, employ medical billing methods, and use office computer programs.
Those seeking advanced training can enter into an Associate of Applied Science in Dental Assistance program. While this degree program is usually intended for aspiring dental assistants rather than dental receptionists, the curriculum is well-suited for dental reception because the two jobs have many skills that overlap. This degree program is in no way required by offices and should only be considered by dental receptionists looking for more opportunities.
Dental Receptionist Job Description
What is a dental receptionist? Dental receptionists are the first contact that people have when they enter a dental office, so they must be able to politely greet clients. They also aid clients with any preliminary information a dentist will need, such as medical records and personal information. Dental receptionists also communicate with dentists and other dental professionals to ensure office efficiency.
Commonly, dental receptionists are responsible for placing orders for new or replacement dental supplies or equipment. They also type up written correspondence on behalf of dentists and send and receive faxes. Dental receptionists file dental records and must know how to quickly and efficiently access a patient's records and charts when needed.
When a patient's appointment is concluded, dental receptionists typically handle all billing duties. They manage payments from clients and contact health insurance companies to request any part of the payment the company is required to cover. Finally, dental receptionists make sure patients have accurate records of all information relevant to their visit.
While there are no specific education requirements for a dental receptionist, certificate and associate's degree programs are available that can give a dental receptionist a boost for their resume. Dental receptionists need to be familiar with office tasks, comfortable with computer and telephone systems, and able to communicate with dentists and patients. They can be responsible for working with patient records, setting appointments, handling billing, and ordering dental equipment.
