Dental assistants keep things running smoothly behind the scenes and chairside. From comforting patients to prepping tools and handling records, this is a hands-on healthcare role with growing demand and minimal barriers to entry.
Dental assistants support dentists during procedures, maintain sterile tools and equipment, and help with both patient care and administrative tasks. They’re often the first and last person a patient sees during their visit and play a big role in creating a positive experience.
You might also see this role listed as chairside assistant, registered dental assistant (RDA), or orthodontic assistant depending on the practice and your level of certification.
Dental assisting is a great fit if you want to quickly get into healthcare. Many programs take less than a year, and hands-on learning is often built in.
Here’s what the path looks like:
Earn a high school diploma or GED: This is the first step for most dental assisting programs and employers.
Complete a dental assisting program: Available through trade schools and community colleges, these programs usually take 9–12 months and include classroom and clinical instruction.
Pass a certification exam (in most states): Many states require certification to perform expanded duties like taking X-rays or assisting in surgical procedures.
Start gaining experience: Many new grads are hired right out of their externship or clinical training.
No. Most dental assistants complete a short training program and earn certification through DANB or their state’s licensing board.
Training programs typically take 9–12 months, and some offer accelerated tracks. You can begin working shortly after completing certification requirements.
Most work in general dental offices, but some work in orthodontics, pediatric dentistry, oral surgery clinics, or public health clinics.
It’s both. You’ll assist with patient care during procedures and also handle office tasks like records, scheduling, and billing.
Yes. Many dental assistants go on to become dental hygienists, office managers, or even apply to dental school after gaining experience.
Offered by the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB), this is one of the most recognized credentials in the field.
Also from DANB, this allows you to take dental X-rays in many states. Often included in broader certification tracks.
Most employers require dental assistants to have current CPR training through the American Red Cross or American Heart Association.
