Although a formal education is not required for finding work as a dental assistant, there are certificate, diploma, and degree programs available in dental assisting, which are usually around 12 months in duration. Some states require dental assistants to have appropriate licensure or certification prior to working in the field.
How to Become a Dental Assistant
Dental assistants work closely with licensed dentists before, during, and after dental work. They prepare patients for procedures, record medical histories, take x-rays, and prepare dental equipment. Education requirements for becoming a dental assistant vary. In some cases, prospective dental assistants must complete some form of training and, in many states, earn licensure and/or national certification.
Dental Assistant Requirements
Dental assistant requirements can vary, but the following chart summarizes expectations you may encounter if you are seeking a career as a dental assistant.
| Education Requirements | Varies; can range from a high school diploma to the completion of a postsecondary training program |
| Licensure and/or Certification | Licensure and/or certification might be required by some states |
| Projected Job Growth (2019-2029)* | 7% |
| Median Salary (2020)* | $41,180 |
Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Dental Assistant Education Requirements
There are no formal dental assistant education requirements. Some assistants have a high school diploma and only receive on-the-job training; however, postsecondary dental assisting programs offer more comprehensive career training. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were almost 300 dental assisting education programs approved by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) in 2015 (www.bls.gov).
Dental Assistant Certificate
Dental assisting programs are typically 1-year diploma or certificate programs culminating in a dental assistant certificate. These programs tend to focus solely on technical training through classroom, laboratory, and clinical instruction. Courses may include dental materials, radiology, chairside assisting, dental office administration, and biodental science.
Dental Assistant Associate Degree
Some community colleges and vocational schools also offer 2-year associate degree programs, which combine general education, technical training, and more extensive clinical practicums.
Dental Assistant Licensure
Some states allow dental assistants to perform all duties assigned by a dentist, while in other states, they must obtain licensure or registration to perform certain duties. Licensure requirements vary by state but may include completing an accredited post-secondary program. Licensure candidates may also be required to pass a written or practical exam. Dental assistants often maintain licensure by earning continuing education at state-specified intervals.
Dental Assistant Certification
The Dental Assisting National Board offers the Certified Dental Assistant (CDA®) certification, which was recognized or required by 38 states and the District of Columbia as of 2014 (www.danb.org). To be eligible to take the CDA® exam, applicants must hold a current CPR certification and meet one of the following dental assistant qualifications:
- have graduated from an accredited dental assisting/dental hygiene program,
- have a high school diploma, or equivalent, and a minimum of 3,500 hours of approved work experience, OR
- have previously held DANB CDA® status, or have graduated from an accredited DDS or DMD program, or graduated from a dental degree program abroad.
Employment Outlook and Salary Information
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment opportunities in the field are expected to grow faster than the national average from 2019-2029. In May 2020, the BLS reported that professionals in the 90th percentile or higher earned $58,390 or more per year, whereas the bottom 10th percentile earned $28,940 or less per year.
It's important to consider the job duties, required training, and projected job growth when deciding if a career as a dental assistant might be right for you. Understanding whether or not you will have to acquire state licensure and/or certification prior to working as a dental assistant is a good first step in this process.
CDA is a registered trademark of The Dental Assisting National Board, Inc. (DANB). This website is not endorsed or sponsored by DANB.
