Dental Assistant Programs

At entry level work, in most US states, the are no dental assistant requirements as far as education and training goes. Many dental assistants learn their skills through on the job training under the guidance and direct supervision of a licensed dentist as well as from dental assistants who work in the office where they receive their training. A dental assistant performs a wide range of duties and is an important part of the professional dental office.

Dental Assistant Requirements

Although there are currently no mandatory educational requirements other than a high school diploma in most states to become a dental assistant, many wishing to enter this career are choosing to pursue formal training in order to receive a more in depth education. As of 2009, there were 281 Dental Assistant programs in the U.S. approved by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA). These programs take around 1 year to complete and provide a certificate or diploma upon successful completion. The main focus of this type of programs is of a technical nature and includes classroom, clinical and laboratory instruction.

There are also private vocational schools where you can receive your training in around 6 months but these are not typically recognized as CODA accredited courses.

Associate degree programs provide much more extensive training and are offered at vocational and community colleges. These programs normally take 2 years to complete.

Certification

Dental assistants have the option to apply for Certified Dental Assistant status (CDA) through the Dental Assisting National Board. To qualify, you must have graduated from a CODA accredited program or have a minimum of 3,500 hours of on-the-job experience within the last 4 years. In addition, you will need to have a current CPR certification. CDA designation is now recognized in 38 states, and in some states is required. To achieve this designation you must pass the CDA exam.

The exam consists of the following three segments:

• Infection Control and Safety
• Radiation Health
• Chair Side Assisting

The CDA certification is renewed annually and requires the applicant to earn 12 or more continuing education credits each year.

Employment Outlook

Qualified dental assistants are in high demand and the latest indications from the Bureau of Labor Statistics show that prospects for employment are excellent.

Dental Assistant Duties

As a dental assistant you will perform a variety of duties that may include the following:

• Sterilization of equipment and dental instruments
• Patient preparation such as escorting, seating and draping patients for the dentist
• Taking X-rays
• Directly assisting the dentist during patient procedures by handing instruments and other materials to the dentist
• Keeping the patient’s mouth dry and free of debris resulting from work being performed by means of a suction tube or other method
• Applying topical anesthetic to the gums, anti-cavity agents to the teeth and removing sutures
• Preparing materials for restorative procedures and impressions
• Making casts from impressions in preparation of bridgework, crowns or other restorative procedures

Some dental assistants perform clerical and administrative duties as well and play an important role in helping patients feel comfortable and relaxed before and after they are seen by the dentist. Some of the duties performed by a dental assistant in this role include:

• Scheduling and confirming patient appointments
• Filing and maintaining patient treatment records
• Responsibility for mailing patient bills
• Taking payments for services rendered
• Inventory and ordering of supplies and other materials

So, as a recap, there are no direct requirements for becoming a dental assistant. With that said, it is recommended to get a formal education, as this will help you on the job market, and make it easier for you to get a higher salary.