How to Find Dental Assistant Training

Dental assistants work in small and large dentist offices preparing patients and instruments for dental procedures. Assistants may take patients’ teeth x-rays and complete office and insurance paper work. Dental assistants can also help dentist during and after procedures. Training for assistants varies, but it generally takes two years or less for completion. Use these steps to find dental assistant training in your state.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Check for accredited dental assisting training programs at the American Dental Association or ADA. The ADA is responsible for approving dental assistant programs based on the association’s qualification requirements. Each state has a few programs that have been accredited by the ADA.

2. Identify community and senior colleges and universities for dental assistant training. Community colleges may offer certificate or two year’s associate degrees for dental assistants. Some senior colleges and universities offer special dental assisting programs and issue a certificate upon completion.

3. Arrange financing for dental assisting schools. Students can use a combination of loans, federal and state financial aids and scholarships to pay for the cost of dental assistants’ school.

4. Obtain a job in a dental office to train as a dental assistant. Some dental offices offer entry level positions for dental assistant with a high school diploma. Dental assistants in training work under the supervision of a dentist performing various office duties. It may take two or more years to become fully proficient in all the tasks and be eligible for certification.

5. Obtain national or state board certification for dental assistants. Check the Dental Assisting National Board or DANB and your state board for dental assisting for requirements. These organizations offer certifications that are recognized nationally or at the state levels. Generally a written exam and continuing education credits are required to get and maintain dental assisting certifications.
   
   Depending on the state these certifications may require dental assisting training at an accredited school. Some states allow on the job experience for qualification. This training can range from two to four years in order to qualify for certification in some state.