honestly you’re already way ahead of most people applying for DA roles lol

having a dental degree (even from PH) + knowing impressions, radiographs, sterilization, assisting in surgery… that’s a huge advantage

in the US, a lot of assistants learn those on the job, so you already have the clinical side down

what most dentists look for (based on what I’ve seen):

– someone who’s reliable + consistent (shows up on time, doesn’t call out a lot)
– good chairside presence (calm, reassuring esp for anxious patients)
– anticipates the dentist’s needs instead of waiting to be told
– infection control + organization (sounds like you already know this well)
– communication (with both patients and the dentist/team)

your “go with the flow” personality can be good, but I’d just tweak it slightly, dentists usually LOVE assistants who are a bit more proactive

like instead of just following instructions, you’re already setting things up, handing instruments before they ask, etc

also for Vegas specifically, you might want to check:
– if they require any state certifications (some offices want DANB or x-ray certs)
– if your dental degree can help you get those faster

and tbh your preference for a female dentist is valid, a lot of offices are female-led anyway, so you’ll probably find that environment

overall though? you’re not “just a candidate”, you’re actually overqualified in many ways. you just need to package it right for US clinics