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Degrees and Schools
Although many dental assistants learn on the job, some community colleges and vocational schools offer dental assistant programs that last about one year and award certificates or diplomas. Two-year associate's degree programs are also available through these schools. A high school diploma or equivalent, plus certain pre-requisite courses in science and computers are usually required.
Programs that meet industry standards are accredited through the American Dental Association (ADA)'s Commission on Dental Accreditation. Graduation from an accredited program is required for certification through the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB), which is required for licensure in some states. Employers prefer graduates from accredited programs.
Classes
Students in dental assistant programs balance classes, lab time and supervised practical experience. Classes usually include:
- dental terminology and basic anatomy
- dental procedures and theory
- nutrition and preventive dentistry
- disease transmission and pathology
- pharmacology and radiology
- names of instruments and use of equipment
- communication and patient interaction
- medical office administration and record keeping
Online Classes and Programs
There are online dental assistant educational programs, which offer a convenient way to enhance or supplement on-the-job training. It is important to verify that any online program is accredited through the ADA and that the parent school has accreditation from agencies approved by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) or United States Department of Education (USDE).
Education and Employment Requirements
Educational programs often require a high school diploma or equivalent and some pre-requisite courses for admission.
In some states, there are no requirements for dental assistants. Employers often provide on-the-job training, so typically a high school diploma or equivalent is expected. They often prefer to hire dental assistants who are certified through the DANB. This certification is required for licensure in some states, and graduation from an ADA-accredited program is one of the requirements for gaining certification.
How to Evaluate Dental Assistant Schools
Aspiring dental assistants should consider asking the following questions when evaluating educational programs:
- Emphasis and focus - Does the program provide comprehensive training for the different roles dental assistants occupy? Is preparation for the Licensed Registered Dental Assistant exam heavily emphasized?
- Accreditation and location - Is the school in a location where the student plans to work after school? Is it accredited through the ADA?
- Class structure and practical experience - What is the student-teacher ratio in most classes? Does the program include substantial supervised practical experience?
- Admission requirements - What are the minimum requirements for admission, such as prerequisite courses or a high-school diploma?
- Tuition and financial aid - What resources are available to students seeking student loans, scholarships and grants?
- Graduate success - In previous years, how many graduates tested for and were awarded certification at graduation? How frequently did internships turn into employment?
Dental Assistant Job Description
Dentists rely on dental assistants to take care of many administrative, laboratory and patient care responsibilities. Dental assistants prepare patients for procedures that protect, strengthen, mend, straighten, repair, remove and enhance teeth. They may also assist the dentist in diagnosing and treating gum disease and other oral conditions. Additional tasks for dental assistants include:
- Preparing equipment and tools
- Making the patient comfortable and explaining procedures
- Taking x-ray images
- Providing chair-side assistance to dentists
- Using medical devices to keep patients' mouths clear and dry
- Performing minor procedures such as removing sutures or applying cavity-preventive agents
- Making casts of teeth and temporary crowns
- Maintaining patients' removable dental appliances
- Educating patients on dental hygiene and postoperative instructions
- Scheduling appointments and greeting patients
- Maintaining patient records and protecting health information
- Billing and receiving payments
- Ordering supplies, tracking inventory and stocking
In some states, dental assistants with specific training and experience can perform restorative dentistry functions, coronal polishing, etc. Almost half of dental assistants work part-time or on variable schedules.
Career Profiles
Job Title: Dental Assistant
Attended: LSU Health Sciences Center • Baton Rouge, LA
Studied Dental Hygienist (completion in 2005)
Highest relevant degree: Bachelor's
• Submitted: 4/5/2012
"I loved LSU's campus. The grounds were stunning. The school prepared me for the job ahead. I also left there with a job in mind and the qualifications to get it done."
Ratings are on a 1-10 scale
| Characteristic | Rating | Comment |
|---|---|---|
| School Rating | 10 | The school had all the equipment and lessons I wanted. It was great. |
| Opportunity for Promotion | 5 | Opportunities for promotion are unlikely because I am in a smaller office. |
| Job Security | 8 | My job provides modest job security. The medical field in my area is shifting between hospitals and there are many skilled workers out there. |
| Earnings Potential | 5 | I make a good living and am comfortable. If you are looking to make more money, be a Dentist. |
| How Stressful | 8 | It is not as demanding as some jobs that I have had, though making mistakes can cost you your job. |
| Task Variety | 3 | My days are very mundane. Every day the same. Rinse, Wash, and Repeat. |
| How Cool Is The Career | 1 | I think that my job seems uncool because no one want to see inside someone else's mouth. |
| Career Flexibility | 5 | I am able to take days off as other people are, though I choose not to. |
| Social Orientation | 6 | I meet lots of interesting people everyday. I find that the dentist chair is not always a great place to have a social call. |
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