A career as a dental assistant requires a high school diploma and either on-the-job training or graduation from a dental assistant training program. In some states, dental assistants must obtain certification. Read this article to learn about required education to become a dental assistant.
Education Options
Dental assistants work closely with dentists, but they require less training than dental hygienists. Most dental assistants receive on-the-job training; however, an increasing number are completing one-year dental assistant training programs. Even experienced dental assistants constantly receive on-the-job training in order to keep up with the latest dental technology and techniques.
The Commission on Dental Accreditation (www.ada.org) certifies over 250 education programs in dental assisting. During their training, dental assistants will learn:
- Dental terminology
- Instrument names
- Patient interaction
- How to perform office duties
<h3 id="section---ImportantFactsAboutThisFieldOfStudy">Important Facts About This Field of Study</h3><p></p><table border="1"><tr><td>Prerequisites</td><td> High school diploma/equivalent; placement testing, immunization records, and background checks may be required</td></tr>
<tr><td>Online Availability</td><td> Online coursework available, but in-person internships/practicums are required</td></tr>
<tr><td>Degrees/Certificates</td><td> Undergraduate certificate or AAS in dental assisting</td></tr>
<tr><td>Common Courses</td><td> Dental Radiography, Dental Office Administration, Chairside Techniques, and Dental Materials</td></tr>
</table><h3 id="section---Certification">Certification</h3><p>Some states require dental assistants to become certified through the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB, <i>www.danb.org</i>). Certification through DANB requires either 3,500 hours of experience working as a dental assistant and a high school diploma or completion of a one-year dental assistant training program.
</p><h3 id="section---SalaryInformationAndJobOutlook">Salary Information and Job Outlook</h3><p>The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS, <i>www.bls.gov</i>) predicts that demand for dental assistants will grow by 8% between 2021 and 2031. In May 2021, the BLS reported that the median annual wage for dental assistants was $38,660. The majority of dental assistants work full-time; however, the BLS notes that some positions require assistants to work on weekends or evenings.</p>
