Career Path

Dental Assistant

Overview

In this career, your responsibilities may include:

Performing a variety of patient care, office, and laboratory duties under the supervision of dentists.
Preparing the dental work area and sterilizing instruments, taking x-rays, handing the dentist instruments as requested during procedures, scheduling patient appointments, and record keeping and other administrative work.
In some states, dental assistants may also polish teeth or apply sealants or other topical treatments. Dental assistants with these privileges are referred to as Expanded Function Dental Assistants (EFDAs).

Job Titles

In your job search, you may find job listings for this career under different titles. You can find some examples of these, as well as more information about this career, at Career One Stop.

Academic Requirements

Typically requires a certificate or an associate degree.

Certification

Certification requirements vary significantly by state. Even in states where certification is not required, obtaining certification could make employers more likely to hire you or offer you a higher salary.

You may be eligible for, or required to obtain, one or more of the seven certifications offered by the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB). DANB certifications are recognized or required by 37 states and the District of Columbia, plus the U.S. Air Force and the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Additional non-certification exams may also be required. For example, many states require dental assistant candidates to pass DANB’s Radiation Health and Safety (RHS) exam in order to operate dental x-ray equipment. Many also require the Infection Control (ICE) exam, which is also part of DANB’s Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) certification, but can be taken independently of certification as well.

To become an Expanded Function Dental Assistant (EFDA), states typically have additional requirements that often include specific certifications, exams, or coursework.
Licensure

Licensure requirements vary by state. In some states, regulation of dental assistants is via registration rather than licensure.