Are you looking into switching careers and really like the dental assistant salary? If you are considering obtaining training in this field, you will need to learn what is required in terms of licensure and certification. Almost every state regulates the duties of a dental assistant, dictating what they may and may not do legally. Some require that a dental assistant go further and register in order to perform either radiological procedures or other functions. In order to become licensed you may need to attend a dental assisting program which has been accredited and pass a written and/or practical exam.
In addition to the above requirements, many states will require you to take continuing education courses in order to remain registered or licensed. Some states though will allow you to perform any function that has been delegated by the dentist. In order to determine what the requirements are for your state, you should contact the State board in charge of regulating this profession to see what is required for you.
Many choose to obtain their credentials through the Dental Assisting National Board. This certification, known as the Certified Dental Assistant, is a program that 37 states require or recognize. In order to take the DANB certification exam, you must graduate from either a Commission on Dental Accreditation training program or have the equivalent experience which is four years of part-time experience or two years full-time. Furthermore, anyone wishing to take this exam must also be currently certified in CPR. Continuing education credits must be obtained annually to maintain this certification. You may choose to take another training course offered by the state, but this choice is up to you.
Each state has their own standards in terms of certification and licensure which explains why the dental assistant salary can vary greatly. If you choose to obtain additional training in order to handle radiological procedures, your salary will go up as a result. A radiology course may be required by certain states also. Twelve other states do not have formal requirements in order to perform these procedures. Check before you sign up with any program to ensure it meets the requirements of your state.
If you’re interested in learning more about your state’s licensure and certification requirements for earning a dental assistant salary, visit the Dental Assisting National Board.