If you have ever been to the dentist, you have probably talked to a dental assistant. Dental assistants help with procedures like fillings and extractions, take X-rays of teeth, and schedule appointments.
But what are the requirements to work as a dental assistant?
Each state has different requirements for their dental assistants. Some states, like Utah, have no requirements while others, like California, require training, certification, and registration with the state Board of Dentistry.
This guide breaks down the requirements to work as a dental assistant by state including training, certification, licensing, and more.
State-by-State Dental Assistant Requirements
Each state has different requirements for dental assistants. Requirements range from a high school diploma to completing separate certification courses for each advanced dental assisting skill.
Alabama Dental Assistant Requirements
- Training program required? No.
- Dental assistant certification required? No.
- CPR certification required? No.
- License required? No.
- Continuing education required? No.
- Other requirements: High school diploma.
- Link(s) to more information: Dental Assisting National Board Alabama.
There are no requirements for dental assistants to work in the state of Alabama. Dental assistants are allowed to perform tasks like applying fluoride, taking X-ray images, making impressions, and assisting with bedside procedures after completing on-the-job training.
Dental assistants working in Alabama must receive direct guidance and supervision from a licensed dentist at all times.
Alaska Dental Assistant Requirements
- Training program required? Advanced dental assistants must be trained in coronal polishing and restorative functions.
- Dental assistant certification required? For basic duties, no. For coronal polishing and restorative functions, dental assistants must be certified.
- CPR certification required? CPR is required to earn a restorative function and coronal polishing certificate.
- License required? No.
- Continuing education required? Advanced dental assistants must complete yearly continuing education for their coronal polishing and restorative functions certificates.
- Other requirements: High school diploma.
- Link(s) to more information: Alaska Dental Assistant Duties, Alaska Board of Dental Examiners, Western Regional Examiner’s Board, Restorative Functions Exam.
Dental assistants do not need special training, certification, or licensure to perform basic tasks such as applying fluoride, taking X-ray images, or assisting with procedures. If a dental assistant wants to perform coronal polishing or any restorative functions, they must earn their certification through the DANB.
Earning a certification from the DANB requires completing an accredited training course and a certification exam.
Arizona Dental Assistant Requirements
- Training program required? For coronal polishing only.
- Dental assistant certification required? For coronal polishing only.
- CPR certification required? CPR certification is required to obtain a coronal polishing certification.
- License required? No.
- Continuing education required? For coronal polishing only.
- Other requirements: High school diploma.
- Link(s) to more information: Arizona Dental Assisting Requirements, Arizona Board of Dental Examiners.
Dental assistants in Arizona only need to be certified to perform coronal polishing. All other tasks can be done by uncertified assistants who get on-the-job training.
If a dental assistant chooses to earn a certificate in coronal polishing, they will need to take a training course and pass a certification exam administered by the DANB. Any DANB certification also required CPR training.
Arkansas Dental Assistant Requirements
- Is a training program required? Yes, for X-ray imaging and nitrous oxide monitoring or to become a registered dental assistant.
- Is dental assistant certification required? Yes, for X-ray imaging and nitrous oxide monitoring or to become a registered dental assistant.
- Is CPR certification required? CPR certification is required for all DANB certifications.
- License required? No.
- Continuing education required? Yes, for X-ray imaging and nitrous oxide monitoring or to maintain registered dental assistant status.
- Other requirements: High school diploma.
- Link(s) to more information: Arkansas State Board of Dental Examiners, Registered Dental Assistant Requirements.
In Arkansas, there are two different ways to become a dental assistant. Dental assistants can work with certifications in X-ray imaging and nitrous oxide monitoring, or they can become registered dental assistants to be able to perform more advanced tasks like coronal polishing and dental sealants.
California Dental Assistant Requirements
- Training program required? Dental assistants in California must complete a board-approved dental assistant training program, a course in the Dental Practice Act, a board-approved course in radiation safety, and a board-approved eight-hour course in infection control.
- Dental assistant certification required? Yes.
- CPR certification required? Yes.
- License required? Yes.
- Continuing education required? No.
- Other requirements: High school diploma.
- Link(s) to more information: California Board of Dental Examiners.
Dental assistants in California have to complete several California Board-approved courses before they can begin working in a dentist’s office. In addition to completing a training course, they have to be trained in the Dental Practice Act, radiation safety, infection control, and basic life support.
Dental assistants must also apply for licensure with the California Board of Dental Examiners. This requires a background check, submission of training documents, and passing a drug screening test.
Colorado Dental Assistant Requirements
- Training program required? Yes. Radiation Safety Training is required.
- Dental assistant certification required? DANB radiation safety certificate is required.
- CPR certification required? No.
- License required? No.
- Continuing education required? Radiation safety CE is required annually.
- Other requirements: High school diploma.
- Link(s) to more information: DANB Radiation Safety Certification.
The only training and certification required for dental assistants in Colorado is radiation safety training. This can be done by either: Completion of five hours of practical or clinical experience and three hours of lecture for a total of eight hours from a program accredited by the Colorado Commission on Higher Education, or completion of the national DANB Radiation Health and Safety (RHS) exam or the national DANB Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) exam.
Connecticut Dental Assistant Requirements
- Training program required? Radiation safety training required.
- Dental assistant certification required? Radiation safety certification required.
- CPR certification required? No.
- License required? No.
- Continuing education required? Radiation CE required annually.
- Other requirements: High school diploma.
- Link(s) to more information: DANB Radiation Safety Certification.
Connecticut dental assistants must be trained in radiation safety and pass the DANB radiation safety certification exam to provide X-ray imaging services in a dental office. All other tasks can be completed without a certification as long as the dental assistant receives direct guidance and supervision from a licensed dentist.
Delaware Dental Assistant Requirements
- Training program required? Radiation training required.
- Dental assistant certification required? Radiation safety certification required.
- CPR certification required? No.
- License required? No.
- Continuing education required? Annual radiation safety CE required.
- Other requirements: High school diploma.
- Link(s) to more information: Delaware Board of Dentistry and Dental Hygiene.
DANB Radiation safety training must be completed by all dental assistants working in Delaware. Other tasks such as applying fluoride and assisting with chairside procedures can be done under the supervision of a licensed dentist.
Florida Dental Assistant Requirements
- Training program required? Florida Board of Dentistry-approved Training program.
- Dental assistant certification required? Florida Department of Health Radiation Safety Certification required.
- CPR certification required? No.
- License required? No.
- Continuing education required? Radiation training CE required annually.
- Other requirements: High school diploma.
- Link(s) to more information: Florida Board of Dentistry, Florida Department of Health.
Florida dental assistants must complete Florida Board of Dentistry-approved radiation training programs such as the DANB program. They must also earn a certificate provided by the Florida Department of Health and Radiation Safety. Dental assistants can perform all other regular dental assisting tasks under the direct supervision of a licensed dentist.
Georgia Dental Assistant Requirements
- Training program required? Six hours of radiation safety training is required.
- Dental assistant certification required? No.
- CPR certification required? CPR is required for assistants who will be present during nitrous oxide administration.
- License required? No.
- Continuing education required? No.
- Other requirements: High school diploma.
- Link(s) to more information: Georgia Board of Dentistry, DANB Georgia Dental Assisting Requirements.
All dental assistants in Georgia must complete mandatory radiation safety training provided by the state of Georgia. In addition, dental assistants who want to perform advanced tasks such as restorative function and coronal polishing may become an expanded duties dental assistant by completing a DANB training course and passing the DANB certification exam.
Hawaii Dental Assistant Requirements
- Training program required? No.
- Dental assistant certification required? No.
- CPR certification required? No.
- License required? No.
- Continuing education required? No.
- Other requirements: High school diploma.
- Link(s) to more information: Hawaii Board of Dental Examiners.
There are no requirements for dental assistants working in Hawaii. However, a licensed dentist must be present in the building to direct and supervise all dental assistants working in an office.
Idaho Dental Assistant Requirements
- Training program required? No.
- Dental assistant certification required? No.
- CPR certification required? No.
- License required? No.
- Continuing education required? No.
- Other requirements: High school diploma.
- Link(s) to more information: Idaho Board of Dentistry.
There are no requirements for dental assistants working in Idaho. However, a licensed dentist must be present in the building to direct and supervise all dental assistants working in an office.
Illinois Dental Assistant Requirements
- Training program required? No.
- Dental assistant certification required? No.
- CPR certification required? No.
- License required? No.
- Continuing education required? No.
- Other requirements: High school diploma.
- Link(s) to more information: Illinois Board of Dentistry.
There are no requirements for dental assistants working in Illinois. However, a licensed dentist must be present in the building to direct and supervise all dental assistants working in an office.
Indiana Dental Assistant Requirements
- Training program required? Radiology training required.
- Dental assistant certification required? Certificate in radiographic safety.
- CPR certification required? No.
- License required? Yes.
- Continuing education required? Annual radiology CE required.
- Other requirements: High school diploma.
- Link(s) to more information: Indiana State Board of Dentistry, Radiation Health and Safety Exam.
In Indiana, dental assistants must be trained, certified, and licensed in radiation health and safety in order to work as dental assistants. This can be done by becoming a Certified Dental Assistant or completing the DANB radiation health and safety course. After completing one of these courses, dental assistants in Indiana must take a state radiation safety exam and apply for licensure through the Indiana State Board of Dentistry.
Iowa Dental Assistant Requirements
- Training program required? Radiology training required.
- Dental assistant certification required? Certified Dental Assistant required.
- CPR certification required? Yes.
- License required? Yes.
- Continuing education required? Annual radiology CE required.
- Other requirements: High school diploma.
- Link(s) to more information: Iowa Dental Board, Iowa DANB requirements.
Dental assistants in Iowa must be at least 18 years old, complete an approved dental assisting training course, pass a certification exam, and register with the state for a qualification in dental radiology before they will be allowed to work in a dentist’s office.
Iowa also requires dental assistants to be specially trained in expanded functions to perform tasks like restorative functions, coronal polishing, or monitoring the administration of nitrous oxide.
Kansas Dental Assistant Requirements
- Training program required? No.
- Dental assistant certification required? No.
- CPR certification required? No.
- License required? No.
- Continuing education required? No.
- Other requirements: High school diploma.
- Link(s) to more information: Kansas Dental Board.
There are no requirements for dental assistants working in Kansas. However, a licensed dentist must be present in the building to direct and supervise all dental assistants working in an office.
Kentucky Dental Assistant Requirements
- Training program required? Radiology health and safety training.
- Dental assistant certification required? No.
- CPR certification required? No.
- License required? No.
- Continuing education required? Annual radiation safety CE required.
- Other requirements: High school diploma.
- Link(s) to more information: Kentucky Board of Dentistry, Commission on Dental Accreditation.
Dental assistants in Kentucky must complete training in radiology health and safety before working in an office. Accepted training includes: passing the national DANB Radiation Health and Safety (RHS) exam or successfully completing a CODA-approved course in radiation safety and technique.
Louisiana Dental Assistant Requirements
- Training program required? No.
- Dental assistant certification required? No.
- CPR certification required? No.
- License required? No.
- Continuing education required? No.
- Other requirements: High school diploma.
- Link(s) to more information: Louisiana State Board of Dentistry.
There are no requirements for dental assistants working in Louisiana. However, a licensed dentist must be present in the building to direct and supervise all dental assistants working in an office.
Maine Dental Assistant Requirements
- Training program required? Radiation health and safety training.
- Dental assistant certification required? DANB Radiation Safety or Certified Dental Assistant Exam.
- CPR certification required? Yes.
- License required? Yes.
- Continuing education required? DANB CE required annually.
- Other requirements: Eighteen years of age, high school diploma.
- Link(s) to more information: Maine Board of Dentistry.
Dental assistants in Maine must be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or GED, complete a training program in radiation health and safety, complete the Maine Board of Dental Examiners’ jurisprudence exam with a passing grade of 85 percent, and apply for a license from the Maine Board of Dental Examiners.
Maryland Dental Assistant Requirements
- Training program required? Approved Dental Assisting Training required.
- Dental assistant certification required? Maryland-specific certification required.
- CPR certification required? Yes.
- License required? Yes.
- Continuing education required? Annual CE required.
- Other requirements: High school diploma.
- Link(s) to more information: Maryland General Dental Assisting Exam, Maryland Board of Dental Examiners.
Maryland is one of the states that has its own specific dental assisting certification exam. In order to perform basic tasks such as taking X-rays and assisting with chairside procedures, dental assistants must complete an approved training course and take the Maryland General Dental Assisting Exam.
Maryland dental assistants must also register with the Maryland Board of Dental Examiners.
Massachusetts Dental Assistant Requirements
- Training program required? CDC training course.
- Dental assistant certification required? No.
- CPR certification required? Yes.
- License required? Yes.
- Continuing education required? No.
- Other requirements: High school diploma.
- Link(s) to more information: Massachusetts Board of Dentistry.
Dental assistants in Massachusetts must complete a CDC compliance training course, earn their CPR certification, and register with the Massachusetts Board of Dentistry. All dental assisting applicants must also take and pass the Massachusetts Board’s ethics and jurisprudence exam.
Michigan Dental Assistant Requirements
- Training program required? CODA-approved dental radiology training required.
- Dental assistant certification required? No.
- CPR certification required? No.
- License required? No.
- Continuing education required? No.
- Other requirements: High school diploma.
- Link(s) to more information: Michigan DANB requirements, Michigan Board of Dentistry.
Dental assistants in Michigan must complete a course in dental radiology before working in an office. If they want to perform advanced tasks, dental assistants can become Registered Dental Assistants by passing the Michigan Board’s comprehensive and clinical exam, completing two hours of implicit bias training within the five years prior to registration, and completing a one-time training in identifying victims of human trafficking. Registered Dental Assistants must also complete the fingerprinting/criminal background check process, and apply for a license to the Michigan Board of Dentistry.
Minnesota Dental Assistant Requirements
- Training program required? Yes.
- Dental assistant certification required? Yes.
- CPR certification required? Yes.
- License required? Yes.
- Continuing education required? Annual CE required.
- Other requirements: High school diploma.
- Link(s) to more information: DANB Minnesota, Minnesota Board of Dentistry.
In Minnesota, dental assistants must complete a state-approved training exam, pass a certification exam, pass the Minnesota Jurisprudence Exam, complete CPR training, and apply for licensure through the state. The state application for licensure requires submitting a background check.
Mississippi Dental Assistant Requirements
- Training program required? No.
- Dental assistant certification required? No.
- CPR certification required? Yes.
- License required? No.
- Continuing education required? No.
- Other requirements: No.
- Link(s) to more information: Mississippi DANB information, Mississippi State Board of Dental Examiners.
Dental assistants in Mississippi must obtain a CPR certification within 180 days of employment. There are no other requirements for dental assistants in Mississippi.
Missouri Dental Assistant Requirements
- Training program required? No.
- Dental assistant certification required? No.
- CPR certification required? No.
- License required? No.
- Continuing education required? No.
- Other requirements: High school diploma.
- Link(s) to more information: Missouri Board of Dentistry.
There are no requirements for dental assistants working in Missouri. However, a licensed dentist must be present in the building to direct and supervise all dental assistants working in an office.
Montana Dental Assistant Requirements
- Training program required? Radiographic Safety Training required.
- Dental assistant certification required? No.
- CPR certification required? No.
- License required? No.
- Continuing education required? No.
- Other requirements: High school diploma.
- Link(s) to more information: Montana Board of Dentistry.
Dental assistants in Montana must receive special training in dental radiography. Before working in a dental office, assistants must earn a certificate from DANB, graduate from a CODA-accredited dental assisting program, or receive a certification in dental radiography from the U.S. military.
Nebraska Dental Assistant Requirements
- Training program required? Certified Dental Assistant training required.
- Dental assistant certification required? Yes.
- CPR certification required? Yes.
- License required? No.
- Continuing education required? CDA CE and renewal required.
- Other requirements: High school diploma.
- Link(s) to more information: Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services.
To work as a dental assistant in Nebraska, applicants must complete an approved training course and pass the DANB certification exam. Dental assistants who wish to perform coronal polishing must complete additional training.
Nevada Dental Assistant Requirements
- Training program required? No.
- Dental assistant certification required? No.
- CPR certification required? No.
- License required? No.
- Continuing education required? No.
- Other requirements: High school diploma.
- Link(s) to more information: Nevada State Board of Dental Examiners.
There are no requirements for dental assistants working in Nevada. However, a licensed dentist must be present in the building to direct and supervise all dental assistants working in an office.
New Hampshire Dental Assistant Requirements
- Training program required? Radiology training required.
- Dental assistant certification required? Radiology certificate required.
- CPR certification required? No.
- License required? No.
- Continuing education required? Annual radiology CE required.
- Other requirements: High school diploma.
- Link(s) to more information: New Hampshire Board of Dental Examiners.
In New Hampshire, dental assistants must complete a dental radiology training approved by the New Hampshire Board of Dental Examiners (NHBDE) and pass the national DANB Radiation Health and Safety (RHS) or Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) exam.
New Jersey Dental Assistant Requirements
- Training program required? Radiology training required.
- Dental assistant certification required? Radiology certification required.
- CPR certification required? No.
- License required? Yes.
- Continuing education required? Annual radiology CE required.
- Other requirements: 18 years of age, high school diploma.
- Link(s) to more information: New Jersey Bureau of X-ray Compliance, New Jersey Board of Dentistry.
Dental assistants in New Jersey are required to either pass the national DANB Radiation Health and Safety (RHS) exam or earn a DANB Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) certification. In addition, they must complete a New Jersey State-approved dental radiography course and apply for licensure to the State of New Jersey Bureau of X-ray Compliance.
New Mexico Dental Assistant Requirements
- Training program required? No.
- Dental assistant certification required? No.
- CPR certification required? No.
- License required? No.
- Continuing education required? No.
- Other requirements: High school diploma.
- Link(s) to more information: New Mexico Regulation and Licensing Department, New Mexico Expanded Functions Requirements.
There are no requirements for dental assistants working in New Mexico. However, a licensed dentist must be present in the building to direct and supervise all dental assistants working in an office.
Dental assistants in New Mexico who wish to perform advanced tasks such as fluoride application, coronal polishing, and monitoring administration of nitrous oxide must become expanded functions dental assistants. This requires completing a training course and passing the DANB certification exams.
New York Dental Assistant Requirements
- Training program required? Yes.
- Dental assistant certification required? Yes.
- CPR certification required? Yes.
- License required? Yes.
- Continuing education required? Annual CE required.
- Other requirements: High school diploma.
- Link(s) to more information: New York Registered Dental Assistants.
Most offices require dental assistants to become Registered Dental Assistants in New York. To become a Registered Dental Assistant, candidates must complete a licensure-qualifying program in dental assisting or an equivalent program as determined by the State Education Department.
North Carolina Dental Assistant Requirements
- Training program required? Yes.
- Dental assistant certification required? Yes.
- CPR certification required? Yes.
- License required? No.
- Continuing education required? Radiation safety and nitrous oxide administration CE is required annually.
- Other requirements: High school diploma.
- Link(s) to more information: DANB North Carolina, North Carolina Board of Dental Examiners.
Dental assistants in North Carolina have several different options for training and certification. The most basic requirements include completing a radiation safety course and passing the DANB radiation health and safety exam. To reach the full scope of practice allowed for dental assistants in North Carolina, candidates must complete all DANB level 2 requirements.
North Dakota Dental Assistant Requirements
- Training program required? No.
- Dental assistant certification required? No.
- CPR certification required? Yes.
- License required? No.
- Continuing education required? No.
- Other requirements: High school diploma.
- Link(s) to more information: North Dakota Board of Dental Examiners, Registered Dental Assistant.
North Dakota requires any dental assistant to obtain a CPR certification and be trained in basic life support. There are no other requirements for dental assistants to perform basic tasks. However, North Dakota does require specific training for advanced tasks including nitrous oxide administration, coronal polishing, and restorative functions.
Dental assistants who want to perform advanced tasks must complete training and examinations to become registered dental assistants.
Ohio Dental Assistant Requirements
- Training program required? Radiology and Nitrous Oxide Training required.
- Dental assistant certification required? Radiology Certification required.
- CPR certification required? Yes.
- License required? Yes.
- Continuing education required? Annual radiology CE required.
- Other requirements: 18 years of age, high school diploma.
- Link(s) to more information: Ohio Requirements, Ohio State Dental Board.
In addition to completing radiation health and safety training, completing a six-hour course for nitrous oxide administration, and earning a CPR certification, dental assistants in Ohio must provide proof of vaccination against hepatitis B.
Oklahoma Dental Assistant Requirements
- Training program required? No.
- Dental assistant certification required? No.
- CPR certification required? No.
- License required? Yes.
- Continuing education required? No.
- Other requirements: High school diploma.
- Link(s) to more information: Oklahoma Requirements, Oklahoma Board of Dentistry.
Dental assistants in Oklahoma do not have to complete specific training or earn a certification. However, they must submit an application, pass a background check, and register with the state before beginning work as a dental assistant.
Oregon Dental Assistant Requirements
- Training program required? For advanced practice only.
- Dental assistant certification required? For advanced practice only.
- CPR certification required? For advanced practice only.
- License required? No.
- Continuing education required? For advanced practice only.
- Other requirements: High school diploma.
- Link(s) to more information: DANB Oregon Requirement List, Oregon Board of Dentistry.
There are many different types of dental assistants in Oregon. A basic dental assistant does not need to complete any special training or certification.
Those who wish to work as a dental assistant can complete special training to become an Expanded Function Dental Assistant (EFDA), Expanded Function Dental Assistant (EFDA) with Restorative Functions Certificate, Expanded Function Orthodontic Dental Assistant (EFODA), Expanded Function Preventive Dental Assistant (EFPDA), Anesthesia Monitor, Anesthesia Dental Assistant, Anesthesia Dental Assistant with IV Therapy Certificate.
Pennsylvania Dental Assistant Requirements
- Training program required? Radiology training required.
- Dental assistant certification required? No.
- CPR certification required? No.
- License required? No.
- Continuing education required? No.
- Other requirements: High school diploma.
- Link(s) to more information: Pennsylvania DANB Requirements, Pennsylvania Board of Dentistry.
Pennsylvania dental assistants have to complete radiology training before working in a dental office. If assistants want to become expanded duty dental assistants, they can do so by completing a Pennsylvania board-approved dental assistant training course as well as three hours of education regarding recognition of child abuse.
Rhode Island Dental Assistant Requirements
- Training program required? Radiology training and one hour of infection control training annually.
- Dental assistant certification required? No.
- CPR certification required? Yes.
- License required? No.
- Continuing education required? Annual infection control required.
- Other requirements: High school diploma.
- Link(s) to more information: Rhode Island DANB, Rhode Island Board of Dentistry.
Dental assistants in Rhode Island must complete a CODA-accredited radiography course. In addition, they must complete at least one hour of infection prevention and control training each year. Expanded Functions Dental Assistants in Rhode Island must pass the DANB Certified Dental Assisting Exam.
South Carolina Dental Assistant Requirements
- Training program required? Infection control and radiation safety training required.
- Dental assistant certification required? No.
- CPR certification required? Yes, for those who work with sedated patients.
- License required? No.
- Continuing education required? Biannual infection control training required.
- Other requirements: High school diploma.
- Link(s) to more information: South Carolina Requirements, South Carolina Board of Dentistry.
All dental assistants working in South Carolina must complete both infection control and radiation safety training courses before working in a dental office. If they work with patients who are sedated with nitrous oxide or other sedating medications, assistants must also be CPR certified and have training in basic life support.
South Dakota Dental Assistant Requirements
- Training program required? For advanced certifications only.
- Dental assistant certification required? For advanced certifications only.
- CPR certification required? For advanced certifications only.
- License required? For advanced certifications only.
- Continuing education required? For advanced certifications only.
- Other requirements: High school diploma.
- Link(s) to more information: South Dakota Certifications, South Dakota Board of Dentistry.
In South Dakota, dental assistants can take on several different roles. While basic dental assisting does not require special training or certifications, there are several different tasks that do require certification. These include: Radiography, registered dental assistant, dental assistant with training in starting intravenous lines, dental assistant with a permit to monitor patients under general anesthesia, deep sedation or moderate sedation, dental assistant qualified in injection of medication, and dental assistant with permit to administer nitrous oxide inhalation analgesia.
Tennessee Dental Assistant Requirements
- Training program required? CODA-accredited training and radiology safety training required.
- Dental assistant certification required? Yes.
- CPR certification required? Yes.
- License required? No.
- Continuing education required? Annual renewal of certification required.
- Other requirements: High school diploma.
- Link(s) to more information: Tennessee Board of Dentistry.
Dental assistants in Tennessee must complete a training and certification course, or be currently enrolled in a dental assisting training program. They must also have a current CPR certification and complete continuing education courses each year to maintain their certification.
Texas Dental Assistant Requirements
- Training program required? No.
- Dental assistant certification required? No.
- CPR certification required? No.
- License required? No.
- Continuing education required? No.
- Other requirements: High school diploma.
- Link(s) to more information: Texas State Board of Dental Examiners.
There are no requirements for dental assistants working in Texas. However, a licensed dentist must be present in the building to direct and supervise all dental assistants working in an office.
Utah Dental Assistant Requirements
- Training program required? No.
- Dental assistant certification required? No.
- CPR certification required? No.
- License required? No.
- Continuing education required? No.
- Other requirements: High school diploma.
- Link(s) to more information: Utah State Board of Dentistry.
There are no requirements for dental assistants working in Utah. However, a licensed dentist must be present in the building to direct and supervise all dental assistants working in an office.
>> Read More: How to Find a Job as a Dental Assistant Without Experience or Certification
Vermont Dental Assistant Requirements
- Training program required? Emergency procedures training required.
- Dental assistant certification required? No.
- CPR certification required? No.
- License required? Yes.
- Continuing education required? No.
- Other requirements: High school diploma.
- Link(s) to more information: Vermont Board of Dentistry.
Dental assistants in Vermont only have to complete an in-office emergency procedures training course within 30 days of beginning their employment. After completing this training, they must register with the Vermont State Board of Dentistry.
Virginia Dental Assistant Requirements
- Training program required? No.
- Dental assistant certification required? No.
- CPR certification required? No.
- License required? No.
- Continuing education required? No.
- Other requirements: High school diploma.
- Link(s) to more information: Virginia Board of Dentistry.
There are no requirements for dental assistants working in West Virginia. However, a licensed dentist must be present in the building to direct and supervise all dental assistants working in an office.
Washington Dental Assistant Requirements
- Training program required? No.
- Dental assistant certification required? No.
- CPR certification required? No.
- License required? No.
- Continuing education required? No.
- Other requirements: High school diploma.
- Link(s) to more information: Washington Board of Dentistry.
There are no requirements for dental assistants working in Washington who perform basic dental assisting tasks and X-rays. However, some dental assistants in Washington choose to become Registered Dental Assistants in order to perform tasks like polishing and administration of nitrous oxide.
West Virginia Dental Assistant Requirements
- Training program required? No.
- Dental assistant certification required? No.
- CPR certification required? No.
- License required? No.
- Continuing education required? No.
- Other requirements: High school diploma.
- Link(s) to more information: DANB West Virginia.
There are no requirements for dental assistants working in West Virginia. However, a licensed dentist must be present in the building to direct and supervise all dental assistants working in an office.
Wisconsin Dental Assistant Requirements
- Training program required? No.
- Dental assistant certification required? No.
- CPR certification required? No.
- License required? No.
- Continuing education required? No.
- Other requirements: High school diploma.
- Link(s) to more information: Wisconsin Dentistry Examining Board.
There are no requirements for dental assistants working in Wisconsin. However, a licensed dentist must be present in the building to direct and supervise all dental assistants working in an office.
Wyoming Dental Assistant Requirements
- Training program required? Yes. All must complete an accredited or WBDE-approved program for dental assistants.
- Dental assistant certification required? No.
- CPR certification required? Yes, when sedation monitoring is required.
- License required? No.
- Continuing education required? No.
- Other requirements: High school diploma.
- Link(s) to more information: Wyoming Board of Dental Examiners.
Dental assistants in Wyoming do not have to be certified, but they do have to complete a WBDE training program. Wyoming also allows dental assistants to complete training in pit and fissure sealing if they choose to.
How to Get Certified as a Dental Assistant
Even if your state doesn't require certification, you may still want to get certified. Employers often prefer to hire certified dental assistants, and getting certified may allow you to perform more advanced tasks and earn a higher salary.
To become certified as a dental assistant, you'll have to complete a training program prepares you for a certification exam offered by an organization like American Medical Technologists (AMT) or the Dental Assistant National Board (DANB).
Dental assistant programs take anywhere from 4 months to 2 years to complete and cost from $1,000 to $40,000 depending on the type.
After you complete your training course, you will register for and take your certification exam. These must be done either at a testing center or via a live Proctor.
Typically, you will be able to see your score immediately after submitting your exam, but official results will not be mailed until several weeks later.
There are several types of certifications you can try to earn as a dental assistant:
- Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) by American Medical Technologists (AMT). This certification is accepted by many states that require dental assistants to be certified. To be eligible, you must have graduated or be scheduled to graduate from an accredited dental assistant program that at least covers office assisting skills, dental sciences, clinical procedures, and dental radiography.
- Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) by the Dental Assistant National Board (DANB). This certification is accepted by most states that require any kind of dental assistant certification or radiology safety training. To become a CDA, you must complete an accredited training course and pass a certification exam.
- National Entry Level Dental Assistant (NELDA) by DANB. This exam is designed for high school students who are not yet eligible for the CDA exam.
- Certified Orthodontic Assistant (COA) by DANB. Dental assistants who want to specialize in orthodontics can become COAs. The COA exam covers orthodontic assisting and infection control.
- Certified Preventative Functions Dental Assistant (CPFDA) by DANB. Becoming a CPFDA means that you can perform coronal polishing, sealants, and topical fluoride in most states.
- Certified Restorative Functions Dental Assistant (CRFDA) by DANB. A CRFDA must pass for exams. Exams include Impressions (IM), Temporaries (TMP), Sealants (SE), and Restorative Functions (RF).
- State-Specific Certifications. Some states have their own training requirements. For example, Minnesota and New Jersey each have state-specific courses and examinations that dental assistants must take.
How to Choose a Dental Assistant Program
Here are some things to consider when choosing a dental assistant program on your journey to becoming a dental assistant:
- If it’s accredited. Accreditation means that a program has met specific requirements covering what information is taught throughout the course. Completing an accredited course is one of the requirements for taking most certification exams.
- If it prepares you to be certified (and which certification). Even the best dental assisting program will not help you if it does not prepare you for the correct certification exam. Make sure you check your state requirements carefully and then make sure the program you sign up for meets those requirements. While most states recognize CODA-accredited programs, some states require state-specific courses.
- Cost. Costs of dental assisting programs can range from $1,000 to $20,000. Make sure you double-check any hidden fees or costs before you enroll in a program. Online programs and certificate programs from community colleges are generally much cheaper than an associate’s degree in dental assisting.
- Length. The length of dental assistant programs varies quite a bit depending on the type you choose. Online dental assisting programs can be completed in just a few months, while degree programs can last up to two years. Decide if you would like to study full-time or part-time, and how many weeks or months you will be able to commit to your training program.
- Online vs. in-person. Most online programs are cheaper and shorter than in-person programs. However, if you struggle with online learning, it might be worth it to choose an in-person education. Think carefully about the pros and cons of each before you decide.
- Job placement support. Before you sign up, ask program directors if they offer job placement support. Many colleges and even online programs offer career counselors and job placement assistance. Some programs even offer their students employment guarantees.
How to Get Licensed as a Dental Assistant
Some states require dental assistants to register with their State Board of Dentistry in addition to earning a certification.
This usually requires a background check, passing a drug screen, filling out an application with your state, and paying a small fee. Most licenses have to be renewed annually.
