Career roadmap
How to Become a Dental Assistant
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a dental assistant, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a dental assistant: (1) finish high school, (2) complete a dental assisting program, (3) earn required state credentials, (4) earn the CDA, (5) specialize or advance. Most people need about 9–12 months. BLS lists “postsecondary nondegree award” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become a dental assistant
Finish high school
Biology, chemistry and health classes are helpful.
Complete a dental assisting program
Look for programs accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) for the broadest eligibility.
Earn required state credentials
Pass radiography and infection-control exams and register with your state if required.
Earn the CDA
National certification can raise pay and open doors in states that require it for expanded duties.
Specialize or advance
Move into orthodontic, oral surgery or expanded-function roles, office management or dental hygiene school.
Education and training requirements
Many dental assistants complete a nine- to twelve-month certificate program at a community college or technical school. Some states allow on-the-job training, but most require radiography certification before you take X-rays, and some require registration or licensure for expanded duties.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | Postsecondary nondegree award |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | None |
| On-the-job training | None |
| Typical training time | 9–12 months |
Certifications and licenses
- CDA (DANB): Certified Dental Assistant from the Dental Assisting National Board, covering general chairside, radiation health and safety, and infection control.
- RHS and ICE (DANB): Radiation Health and Safety and Infection Control exams, often used to meet state requirements.
- State radiography or RDA credential: Many states require specific certification or registration to take X-rays or perform expanded functions.
- CPR / BLS: Required by most employers.
Skills to build now
Start with chairside assisting (four-handed dentistry), dental radiography, and infection control and sterilization, and practice putting nervous patients at ease and anticipating the dentist’s needs. Learning the dental assistant vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Dental Assistant: Assist chairside and keep the office safe.
- Expanded-Function or Specialty Assistant: Add duties such as sealants or coronal polishing, or specialize in ortho or oral surgery.
- Lead Assistant or Office Manager: Train staff and manage operations.
- Dental Hygienist or Practice Administrator: Pursue licensure in hygiene or move into practice management.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Dental Assistant training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
Do dental assistants need to be certified?
It depends on the state. Some states allow on-the-job training, while others require formal education, exams or registration, especially to take X-rays or perform expanded functions.
How long does it take to become a dental assistant?
Most people need about 9–12 months of training. Many dental assistants complete a nine- to twelve-month certificate program at a community college or technical school. Some states allow on-the-job training, but most require radiography certification before you take X-rays, and some require registration or licensure for expanded duties.
Do you need a degree to be a dental assistant?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “postsecondary nondegree award” as the typical entry-level education.
What certifications are available for dental assistants?
Common credentials include CDA (DANB), RHS and ICE (DANB), State radiography or RDA credential, and CPR / BLS. Each state’s dental board sets rules for dental assistants. Requirements range from none to formal education, exams and registration, and expanded functions usually require additional credentials.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 31-9091 (Dental assistants).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Dental assistants (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.