How to become a Dental Assistant
To work as a dental assistant, the following may be required of you:
- Complete an academic program in a community or technical school. This will give you a huge advantage when it is time to get a job.
- Complete an externship where you can refine your skills in the different areas of dentistry, such as dental pathology, chairside assisting and oral anatomy.
- Earn a state certification through the state dental board where you want to work. You are required to pass the Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) examination given by the Dental Assistant National Board (DANB).
- Get other certification and licensure by passing the DANB's National Entry Level Dental Assistant test.
- Get an entry-level job in your area of focus to get on-the-job experience.
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Typical qualifications for a Dental Assistant
Certificates and licenses
About Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) Certification
A certification awarded by an organization or association such as the American Heart Association or the Red Cross, upon completing a three hour CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) class.
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About Automated External Defibrillator (AED) Certification
Certification awarded after completion of training in conjunction with CPR training by the American Red Cross or American Heart Association.
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Skills employers are looking for
About Dental assisting
Experience assisting a dentist or oral surgeon with dental treatment.
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About Chairside assisting
Experience assisting a dentist or oral surgeon with dental treatment at the patient’s chairside.
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About Aseptic technique
Experience with or knowledge of the practices and procedures needed to prevent contamination by pathogens.
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About Infection control
Experience with or knowledge of infection control or prevention within a medical setting.
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About Medical terminology
Knowledge of or experience with medical terminology.
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Dental Assistant jobs in United States
Career progression for Dental Assistant
Education levels for Dental Assistants
| required level of education | percent of job openings |
|---|---|
| High school diploma or GED | 68.2% |
| Associate's degree | 20.1% |
| Bachelor's degree | 9.3% |
| Doctoral degree | 1.1% |
| Master's degree | 1.1% |
| Middle school education | 0.2% |
Expected salary by experience
| Years of experience | Annual salary in USD |
|---|---|
| 0 - 4 | $28,900 |
| 4 - 8 | $31,100 |
| 8 - 12 | $32,900 |
| 12 - 16 | $34,900 |
| 16 - 20 | $35,500 |
| 20 - 24 | $36,300 |
Common questions about career advices for a Dental Assistant
How long does it take to become a dental assistant?
Depending on the state, it can take approximately one month to four years to become a dental assistant. Some states require a high school diploma and on-the-job training. Other states require dental assistants to pass an exam and receive their dental assistant certification.
What's the job outlook for dental assistants?
Dental assistants continue to remain in demand. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook of dental assistants will grow 11% between 2018 and 2028.
Is being a dental assistant a good career?
Working as a dental assistant is exciting in a growth allied health field, and it's a career that can offer career progression for those with the right qualifications and interests.
