The dental industry offers diverse career opportunities, but for those seeking quick entry into the field while making a meaningful impact, becoming a Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) presents an attractive pathway. With rapidly growing demand for oral healthcare professionals and a relative shortage of trained personnel, this career offers both job security and growth potential. Let's examine the role of RDAs, essential skills, and certification requirements.
Roles and Work Environment
As vital members of dental teams, Registered Dental Assistants perform multifaceted duties. Their responsibilities include assisting dentists with procedures, managing patient appointments, maintaining medical records, and facilitating X-ray examinations. A crucial aspect of their role involves ensuring patient comfort during treatments, requiring strong interpersonal skills to alleviate dental anxiety.
While most RDAs work in private dental practices, opportunities also exist in larger medical centers and hospital dental departments.
Salary and Career Outlook
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average annual salary for dental assistants reached $35,390 in 2014. The profession continues to experience rapid growth across the United States, with projections indicating sustained demand for qualified professionals in coming years.
Essential Skills and Qualities
Successful RDAs require specific competencies:
- Patient care expertise: Managing anxious patients requires understanding psychological needs and ensuring positive treatment experiences
- Communication skills: Effective interaction with dentists, administrative staff, and patients while maintaining professionalism
- Technical abilities: Proficiency in maintaining records, conducting X-rays, and handling dental materials
Training and Certification Process
Most states mandate certification for RDAs, though requirements vary. Training programs typically span 9-24 months, available through community colleges and technical schools as certificate, diploma, or degree programs.
Curriculum includes:
- Oral anatomy
- Dental materials science
- Practice management
- Dental pharmacology
- Radiology
- CPR and emergency procedures
Many states require passing the Dental Assisting National Board's (DANB) Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) examination, a 320-question test covering core competencies including chairside procedures, radiation safety, and infection control.
Getting Started
Prospective RDAs should first research their state's specific requirements and identify appropriate training programs. Numerous online resources provide state-specific information about dental assisting regulations and accredited schools.
Financing Your Education
While essential, dental education costs can be prohibitive. Program fees range from $850 to $7,560 across states, with additional expenses for examinations, lab fees, and materials. Prospective students should consult with institutions about total costs and explore financial aid options, including federal student assistance programs and scholarships, to manage expenses while potentially maintaining employment during studies.