Dental / Orthodontic Assistant

• Minimum education: None
• Required coursework: n/a
• On-the-job training: Yes

Dental / Orthodontic Assistant Qualified in Coronal Polishing Procedures

• Minimum education: None but required to pass exam and earn a Certificate in coronal polishing.
• Required coursework: n/a
• On-the-job training

Dental / Orthodontic Assistant Qualified in Restorative Functions

State licensing process:

• Successfully complete a course offered by or under the auspices of a program accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) or other equivalent course or program approved by the Alaska Board of Dental Examiners, AND
• Pass the Western Regional Examining Board’s restorative examination or other equivalent examination approved by the board within five years preceding the dental assistant’s certificate application, or
• Have legal authorization from another state or jurisdiction to perform restorative functions.

Renewal requirements: The restorative functions certificate must be renewed biennially on or before February 28th of odd-numbered years.

The Alaska Board of Dental Examiners maintains a registry of dental assistants who hold certificates in coronal polishing and/or restorative functions.

Dental / Orthodontic Assistant

In Arizona, dental assistants are permitted to carry out basic supportive dental procedures as defined by the state’s dental practice act. These tasks must be performed under the direct supervision of a licensed dentist or dental therapist.

At this level, Arizona does not mandate any formal education or training requirements, making it one of the more accessible states for entering the dental assisting profession.

Dental / Orthodontic Assistant Qualified in Coronal Polishing

To legally perform coronal polishing in Arizona under the general supervision of a licensed dentist, dental assistants must earn an Arizona Coronal Polishing Certificate. To be eligible for this certification, an assistant must meet the following criteria:

1. Pass DANB’s Coronal Polishing exam (administered by DANB), AND
2. Submit to DANB the Arizona Coronal Polishing Certificate (AZCP) application, including an Arizona Coronal Polishing Clinical Skills Affadavit completed and signed by a licensed dentist or coronal polishing educator/course instructor*, AND
3. Receive the Arizona Coronal Polishing Certificate, sent by DANB upon completion of all requirements.

*Note: As of 6/1/2023, any educator or course instructor signing the Clinical Skills Affidavit must be a dentist or licensed hygienist or must hold the AZCP certificate.

Expanded Function Dental / Orthodontic Assistant (EFDA)

Dental assistants in Arizona who wish to perform certain restorative procedures must obtain an Arizona Expanded Function – Restorative Certificate. This certification allows them to work under the supervision of a licensed dentist when performing approved restorative functions.

To qualify, an assistant must:

• Hold the Arizona Coronal Polishing certificate AND
  • Pass the DANB RHS exam or hold the Arizona Radiologic Proficiency certificate, AND
  • Successfully complete an EFDA training course approved by the Arizona State Board of Dental Examiners at a Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA)-accredited program, AND
  • Pass DANB’s AMP, TMP and RF exams (apply online), AND
  • Under the supervision of a licensed dentist, perform restorative procedures required by the ASBDE (place, contour and finish 20 direct restorations and place and cement five prefabricated crowns, following the preparation of the tooth by a licensed dentist) and document these procedures on a Licensed Dentist Endorsement form (found on page 6 of the Arizona Expanded Function Dental Assistant – Restorative Certificate(opens in a new window) application packet), AND
  • Apply for the Arizona Expanded Function – Restorative Certificate(opens in a new window) by submitting a completed application, Licensed Dentist Endorsement form, required documentation and fee to DANB.

OR

• Hold the Arizona Coronal Polishing certificate AND
• Pass the DANB RHS exam or hold the Arizona Radiologic Proficiency certificate, AND
• Provide evidence of currently holding or having held within the previous ten (10) years a license, registration, permit or certificate in expanded functions in restorative procedures issued by another U.S. state or jurisdiction; AND
• Document clinical experience in the specified expanded functions on a Licensed Dentist Endorsement form, AND
• Apply for the Arizona Expanded Function Dental Assistant – Restorative Certificate(opens in a new window) by submitting a completed application, Licensed Dentist Endorsement form, required documentation and fee to DANB.

**A registered dental hygienist may qualify to perform expanded functions by meeting the same requirements, with the exception that the registered dental hygienist is not required to take the RHS, CP and AMP exams.

Dental / Orthodontic Assistant

• Minimum education: None
• Required coursework: Training in standard precautions and other infection control standards required by OSHA and as recommended by the CDC and set forth in Arkansas rule shall be provided to all dental healthcare personnel by the employer upon initial employment prior to direct patient care, whenever new tasks are assigned which effects the level of occupational exposure, and at least annually.
• On-the-job training: Yes

Registered Dental / Orthodontic Assistant

To be issued a permit for any of the expanded functions (except Sedation Monitoring, which has additional requirements), one must:

• Hold a current national DANB Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) certification, OR
•  Graduate from a CODA-accredited dental assisting program, OR
• Complete an ASBDE-approved course in the desired expanded function(s), OR
• Receive on-the-job training from an Arkansas-licensed dentist,

AND

• Hold current Healthcare Provider-level CPR certification, AND
• Provide proof of competency in the desired expanded function(s) and apply for registration to the ASBDE, AND
• Complete the Arkansas jurisprudence exam.

Sedation monitoring: To obtain a permit for sedation monitoring, an individual must:

• Hold a current permit for nitrous oxide administration, AND
• Hold current Healthcare Provider level CPR certification, AND
• Hold current DANB CDA certification (or be a Registered Dental Assistant, a Registered Nurse or a Licensed Practical Nurse), AND
  Successfully complete the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons Anesthesia Assistant’s training program or a Board-approved equivalent course within the two years immediately preceding application, AND
• Apply to the Arkansas State Board of Dental Examiners, AND
  Successfully complete the Arkansas jurisprudence exam.

Renewal requirements: To renew a permit to perform expanded functions, Registered Dental Assistants must provide the Arkansas State Board of Dental Examiners proof of completing two hours of continuing education in infection control every two years.

Unlicensed Dental Assistant (UDA)

Minimum education: No formal education required to start; however, the employer is responsible for ensuring dental assistants maintain Basic Life Support (BLS) certification, and that all dental assistants in continuous employment for 120 days or more have proof of completing all of the three (3) required courses within a year from the date of employment.

Required coursework:

• A California Board-approved 2-hour course in the California Dental ractice Act
• A California Board-approved 8-hour course in infection control
• An American Heart Association or American Red Cross-approved course in Basic Life Support (BLS) which includes hands-on simulated clinical scenarios

On-the-job training: Yes

Registered Dental Assistant (RDA)

Minimum education: No formal education required to start; however, the employer is responsible for ensuring dental assistants maintain Basic Life Support (BLS) certification, and that all dental assistants in continuous employment for 120 days or more have proof of completing all of the three (3) required courses within a year from the date of employment.

Required coursework:

• A California Board-approved 2-hour course in the California Dental Practice Act
• A California Board-approved 8-hour course in infection control
• An American Heart Association or American Red Cross-approved course in Basic Life Support (BLS) which includes hands-on simulated clinical scenarios

On-the-job training: Yes

Registered Dental Assistant in Extended Functions (RDAEF)

Minimum education: No formal education required to start; however, the employer is responsible for ensuring dental assistants maintain Basic Life Support (BLS) certification, and that all dental assistants in continuous employment for 120 days or more have proof of completing all of the three (3) required courses within a year from the date of employment.

Required coursework:

• A California Board-approved 2-hour course in the California Dental Practice Act
• A California Board-approved 8-hour course in infection control
• An American Heart Association or American Red Cross-approved course in Basic Life Support (BLS) which includes hands-on simulated clinical scenarios

On-the-job training: Yes

Orthodontic Assistant

Minimum education: No formal education required to start; however, the employer is responsible for ensuring dental assistants maintain Basic Life Support (BLS) certification, and that all dental assistants in continuous employment for 120 days or more have proof of completing all of the three (3) required courses within a year from the date of employment.

Required coursework:

• A California Board-approved 2-hour course in the California Dental Practice Act
• A California Board-approved 8-hour course in infection control
• An American Heart Association or American Red Cross-approved course in Basic Life Support (BLS) which includes hands-on simulated clinical scenarios

On-the-job training: Yes

Dental Sedation Assistant (UDA)

Minimum education: No formal education required to start; however, the employer is responsible for ensuring dental assistants maintain Basic Life Support (BLS) certification, and that all dental assistants in continuous employment for 120 days or more have proof of completing all of the three (3) required courses within a year from the date of employment.

Required coursework:

• A California Board-approved 2-hour course in the California Dental Practice Act
• A California Board-approved 8-hour course in infection control
• An American Heart Association or American Red Cross-approved course in Basic Life Support (BLS) which includes hands-on simulated clinical scenarios

On-the-job training: Yes

Dental / Orthodontic Assistant

There are no education requirements for this level of dental assisting.

Note: It is the responsibility of the supervising dentist to ensure that dental personnel who administer and/or monitor nitrous oxide/oxygen inhalation are appropriately trained. Dental assistants who administer and/or monitor nitrous oxide/oxygen inhalation must successfully complete current Basic Life Support (BLS) training.

Dental assistants who render patient care services in a dental setting where local anesthesia, analgesia (including nitrous oxide), minimal sedation, moderate sedation, deep sedation or general anesthesia are being administered shall have successfully completed and shall maintain continuous certification in Basic Life Support (BLS) training for healthcare providers consistent with the most current science and treatment recommendations from the International Liaison Committee on Resuscitation (ILCOR), Consensus on Science and Treatment Recommendations (CoSTR), and the American Heart Association Guidelines for CPR and Emergency Cardiovascular Care (ECC).

Dental / Orthodontic Assistant

As of July 1, 2018, all dental assistants and Expanded Function Dental Assistants in Connecticut are required to show proof of competency in infection control. This can be fulfilled by passing DANB’s Infection Control (ICE) exam or by completing an infection control assessment through a CODA-accredited dental education program.

Dental assistants in Connecticut who were already employed before July 1, 2018, but had not passed the DANB Infection Control Exam, were given until October 1, 2019 to complete on-the-job training under a licensed dentist and pass the required exam.

For those hired after July 1, 2018, the state allows a 15-month window from the date of hire to receive on-the-job training and pass the Infection Control Exam, if not already completed.

Please note that DANB’s Infection Control (ICE) exam became a component of the Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) certification on June 1, 1993. The ICE exam became a component of the Certified Orthodontic Assistant (COA) certification on June 1, 1994. Dental assistants who earned CDA certification before June 1, 1993 or who earned COA certification before June 1, 1994 and who have not subsequently taken the CDA, COA or ICE exam after these dates will be required to take the ICE exam prior to April 1, 2019.

Expanded Function Dental / Orthodontic Assistant

To qualify as an EFDA, one must:

I. Maintain current DANB Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) or Certified Orthodontic Assistant (COA) certification

AND

II. Successfully complete an expanded function dental assistant program at a higher education institution accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) that includes educational courses related to didactic and laboratory preclinical objectives and at least four hours of education in ethics and professional standards for dental professionals and a comprehensive clinical exam administered by the higher education program at the conclusion of the program

AND

III. Pass DANB’s Certified Preventive Functions Dental Assistant (CPFDA) certification exam and DANB’s Certified Restorative Functions Dental Assistant (CRFDA) certification exam

Note: Connecticut introduced new EFDA regulations as part of legislation passed in 2016. While specific curriculum requirements and the list of approved EFDA functions are still being finalized, certain standards are already in effect.

As of July 1, 2018, all Expanded Function Dental Assistants in Connecticut must demonstrate competency in infection control. This requirement can be met by successfully completing the DANB Infection Control (ICE) exam or by passing an infection control assessment administered through a CODA-accredited dental education program.

Transition Periods for Infection Control Compliance

Existing Dental Assistants who had not passed the DANB ICE exam before July 1, 2018 were given until October 1, 2019 to complete on-the-job training under a licensed dentist and pass the required exam.

Newly Hired Dental Assistants employed after July 1, 2018 have nine months from their start date to receive on-the-job training and pass the infection control exam, unless they’ve already met this requirement.

ICE Exam History and Certification Requirements

The DANB Infection Control (ICE) exam has been part of the Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) certification since June 1, 1993, and part of the Certified Orthodontic Assistant (COA) certification since June 1, 1994. Dental assistants who earned CDA certification before June 1, 1993, or COA certification before June 1, 1994, and who have not taken the ICE exam—or retaken the CDA or COA certification—since those dates, must complete the ICE exam by April 1, 2019 to remain compliant.

Dental / Orthodontic Assistant

In Delaware, the supervising dentist has full authority to determine which duties a dental assistant may perform. The scope of responsibilities assigned to the assistant is left entirely to the dentist’s discretion.

Training requirements are also not regulated by the state—it’s the dentist’s sole responsibility to ensure that any dental assistant is properly trained for the tasks they’re assigned.

In short, the Delaware Board of Dentistry and Dental Hygiene places complete responsibility for a dental assistant’s competency and conduct on the supervising dentist.

On-the-Job Trained Dental Assistant (Including Orthodontic Settings)

In Florida, dental assistants are permitted to perform basic supportive procedures as outlined in the state’s dental practice act, provided they are under the supervision of a licensed dentist.

For those trained on the job, the supervising dentist is responsible for overseeing the assistant’s training within the dental office. The dentist must ensure the assistant is properly prepared and competent to carry out the tasks assigned.

Dental / Orthodontic Assistant Formally Trained in Expanded Functions

Required coursework

To qualify to perform expanded functions, one must:

1. Complete a course or program administered by or developed as part of the regular curriculum at a dental, dental hygiene, or dental assisting educational program accredited by CODA that provided training in the expanded function

OR

2. Successfully complete a Florida Board-approved expanded duties formal training program.

Note: As of May 2009, holding a DANB Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) certification is no longer an accepted pathway to qualify for expanded functions in Florida. However, dental assistants who were already employed in the state and held CDA certification before this rule change are grandfathered in and may continue performing expanded duties. For more details on this policy, contact the Florida Board of Dentistry directly.

To monitor nitrous oxide inhalation analgesia, a dental assistant must:

1. Complete a course of training of no less than two days as described in the American Dental Association’s “”Guidelines for Teaching Pain Control and Sedation to Dentists and Dental Assistants” or equivalent, AND

2. Be certified in an American Heart Association, American Red Cross, or equivalent agency sponsored CPR course at the basic life support level, to include one person CPR, two person CPR, infant resuscitation, obstructed airway, and use of either an Automated External Defibrillator or a defibrillator and electrocardiograph, with a periodic update not to exceed two years.

On-the-job training: Yes

Dental / Orthodontic Assistant Formally Trained in Restorative Functions

Required coursework:

A dentist may delegate remediable intraoral restorative functions to be performed under direct supervision to a Dental assistant who has met the following requirements:

1. Be at least 18 years of age, AND

2. Be a high school graduate or equivalent, AND

3. Hold current BLS for Healthcare Provider certificate, AND

4a. Graduate from a dental assisting program accredited by a dental accrediting entity recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, or

4b. Successfully complete a Florida Board-approved expanded duties formal training program, AND

5. Document proof of 2,400 hours of clinical work experience in either a dental office or as a dental assisting educator within 24 months of admittance to the mandatory restorative functions training course, AND

6. Complete a mandatory restorative functions training course offered by a dental or dental hygiene school or program that is accredited by a dental accrediting entity recognized by the United States Department of Education meeting the requirements of Florida Board of Dentistry rules and receive a course completion certificate.

Note: All students must have a delegating dentist to enroll in the mandatory restorative functions training program.

On-the-job training: Yes

Dental / Orthodontic Assistant

Minimum education: high school diploma or its equivalent

Required coursework:

To qualify as an EDDA, one must:

1. Hold a high school diploma or its equivalent, AND

2. Hold a current Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) certification, AND

3. Provide a certificate documenting successful completion of a Georgia Board-approved course pertaining to the specific expanded duties outlined in that certificate. (Note: A national DANB Certified Dental Assistant certification is one of the ways by which an assistant may qualify to enroll in a Georgia Board- approved course.)

Only those expanded duties listed on the certificate(s) may be performed by an EDDA.

Dental / Orthodontic Assistant

In Hawaii, supervising dentists are responsible for ensuring that dental assistants receive appropriate training. This includes instruction in key areas such as:

• Sterilization and disinfection protocols
• Dental ethics and professional conduct
• Accurate record keeping and patient confidentiality
• Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR)

Training must comply with OSHA and Hawaii Occupational Safety and Health (HIOSH) standards for bloodborne pathogens, as well as CDC and ADA infection prevention guidelines. All instruction must be provided through continuing education organizations approved by the Hawaii Board of Dentistry. Accepted providers include—but are not limited to—those recognized by the American Dental Association Continuing Education Recognition Program (ADA CERP) and the Academy of General Dentistry Program Approval for Continuing Education (AGD PACE).

Public Health Supervision

Dental assistants in Hawaii may perform certain authorized tasks under the general supervision of a licensed dentist or a licensed dental hygienist (who must be under a dentist’s supervision) when providing support services in a public health setting. For the legal definition of a “public health setting,” refer to Hawaii Revised Statutes Section 447-3.

Dental / Orthodontic Assistant

Minimum education: None

Required coursework:
There are no formal education or certification requirements to work as a dental assistant in Idaho. However, all dental assistants must be trained by their supervising dentist to competently perform the tasks they are assigned, including those related to orthodontic procedures.

To **monitor nitrous oxide/oxygen sedation**, a dental assistant must complete training consistent with Idaho Board of Dentistry rules. The supervising dentist is responsible for ensuring the assistant is competent in this area.

On-the-job training: Yes

Note: Idaho does not license or register dental assistants. All tasks must be performed under the supervision of a licensed dentist, and training may be completed on the job. There is no separate credential for orthodontic assistants.

Dental / Orthodontic Assistant

Minimum education: None

There are no education or training requirements for this level of dental assisting.

Dental / Orthodontic Assistant Qualified in Expanded Functions

To qualify to perform coronal scaling and intracoronal temporization of a tooth* under the supervision of a dentist, a dental assistant must:

1. Have at least 2,000 hours of direct clinical and patient care experience,

AND

2. Successfully complete an approved coronal polishing course prior to taking coronal scaling course

AND

3. Successfully complete a structured training program in coronal scaling and intracoronal temporization of a tooth provided by an educational institution (such as a dental school or a dental hygiene or dental assisting program), an approved CE provider, or by a statewide dental or dental hygienist association approved by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) that includes the following:

a. minimum 32 hours of didactic and clinical manikin or human subject instruction covering specified content,
b. an outcome assessment examination that demonstrates competency,
c. completion of 6 full-mouth scaling procedures under the observation and with approval of the supervising dentist (if training not from a CODA-accredited dental assisting program),
d. issuance of a certificate of completion (which must be kept on file at the dental office).

To place, carve and finish amalgam restorations; place, pack and finish composite restorations; and place interim restorations under the direct supervision of a dentist, a dental assistant must:

1. Have at least 4,000 hours of clinical patient care experience, AND

2. Pass approved coronal polishing course and approved dental sealants course (prior to taking restorative training program), AND

3. Successfully complete a structured training program meeting the requirements outlined in statute and provided by (a.) an educational institution accredited by CODA, or (b.) a statewide dental association approved by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR), AND

4. Maintain on file at the dental office the certificate of completion of the required training program, which must be made available to IDFPR upon request

To perform coronal polishing, place pit and fissure sealants, monitor patients under nitrous oxide, or monitor patients under sedation, a dental assistant must:

1. Be at least 18 years of age

AND

2a. Complete 1,000 hours of clinical dental assisting experience

or

2b. Complete a CODA-accredited dental assisting program

or

2c. Hold a current national DANB Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) certification,

AND

3a. Complete an Illinois Board-approved course relative to the expanded function in question, subject to specific didactic and clinical requirements

or

3b. Provide proof of completion of an Illinois Board-approved dental assisting program that contained the expanded function in the curriculum

Note: In addition to the above requirements, in order to monitor patients while nitrous oxide is being administered and to monitor patients under minimal, moderate or deep sedation, or under general anesthesia, dental assistants must maintain basic life support certification intended for healthcare providers (BLS) that includes evaluation of hands-on skills and a written exam.

Expanded Functions Dental / Orthodontic Assistant

To qualify, a dental assistant must:

1a. Complete training the expanded functions from an approved continuing education sponsor OR

1b. Complete training in the expanded functions from a dental assistant training program accredited by the Commission on Dental Ac­creditation OR

1c. Complete a training course approved by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regula­tion AND

2. Complete and maintain Basic Life Support certification, proof of which must be kept on file with the supervis­ing dentist.

*The Illinois Legislature passed a law in the 2017 legislative session authorizing the creation of Expanded Function Dental Assistants; the Illinois General Assembly further amended the law in 2018. The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) is in the process of developing rules to implement this new law.

Dental / Orthodontic Assistant

There are no education or training requirements for this level of dental assisting except for radiography requirements.

Dental / Orthodontic Assistant Qualified in Coronal Polishing

To qualify to polish the coronal surfaces of the teeth, a dental assistant must:

1. a. Be employed in a dental practice for a minimum of one year and complete an educational program approved by the Indiana State Board of Dentistry that includes the following instruction in coronal polishing:

i. 5 hours of didactic instruction meeting Board curriculum requirements

ii. 2 hours of laboratory work

iii. Performance of the task on five patients under the observation of a licensed dentist or dental hygienist

iv. An affidavit certifying competency signed by the supervising dentist

OR

b. Graduate from an educational program accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) that included instruction meeting the above requirements

AND

2. Display certificate of completion of education program publicly in the dental office

A dental assistant who has completed an out-of-state dental assisting program in applying medicaments for the control and prevention of dental caries must provide a syllabus of coursework successfully completed; coursework must be equal to or greater than that required by Indiana rules, or the dental assistant must complete laboratory and clinical requirements in Indiana and obtain a certificate of completion from an Indiana CODA-accredited or Board-approved program; the dental assistant must display CODA-accredited program diploma or certificate of completion from Board-approved course publicly in the dental office.

Dental / Orthodontic Assistant Qualified In Applying Medicaments For The Control Or Prevention Of Dental Caries

To qualify to apply medicaments for the control or prevention of dental caries (i.e., apply topical fluoride), a dental assistant must:

1. a. Be employed in a dental practice for a minimum of one year and complete an educational program approved by the Indiana State Board of Dentistry that includes the following instruction in prevention of dental caries:

i. 9 hours of didactic instruction meeting Board curriculum requirements

ii. 2 hours of laboratory work

iii. Performance of the task on five patients under the observation of a licensed dentist or dental hygienist

iv. An affidavit certifying competency signed by the supervising dentist

OR

b. Graduate from an educational program accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) that included instruction meeting the above requirements

AND

2. Display certificate of completion of education program publicly in the dental office.

Dental / Orthodontic Assistant Qualified in Administering Nitrous Oxide

To qualify to administer nitrous oxide, a dental assistant must:

1. Be employed in a dental practice for a minimum of one year OR graduate from a CODA-accredited educational program, AND

2. Complete a CODA-accredited course that includes the following:

a) 3 hours of didactic instruction meeting state curriculum requirements

b) Demonstration of clinical competence on at least five (5) patients under the direct supervision of a licensed Indiana dentist in good standing

c) An affidavit certifying competency signed by the supervising dentist

AND

3. Display certificate of completion of education program publicly in the dental office

Dental / Orthodontic Assistant Trainee

A Dental Assistant Trainee must successfully complete on-the-job training and examinations in the areas of infection control, hazardous materials, and jurisprudence to meet requirements for dental assisting registration.

If a trainee fails to become registered by the trainee status expiration date (12 months from the start of trainee employment), the trainee must stop work as a dental assistant trainee.

Registered Dental / Orthodontic Assistant

To work as a dental assistant in the state of Iowa, an individual must be 17 years of age or older, be a high school graduate or equivalent, and be registered with the Iowa Dental Board and have received a Certificate of Registration.

To qualify as a Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) in Iowa, one must:

1a. Work in a dental office as a dental assistant trainee (see requirements above) until competency is achieved as determined by the supervising dentist, or

1b. Work as a dental assistant in another state, district or territory within five years prior to the date of application, or

1c. Graduate from an accredited dental assisting program approved by the Iowa Dental Board, AND

2. Pass required exams in infection control/hazardous materials and jurisprudence; exams approved for this purpose are those exams or CE courses with posttest exams approved by the IDB, those administered by accredited dental assisting programs, or the DANB ICE exam); the IDB may require applicants with exam scores older than five years to retest, AND

3. Hold a current CPR certification that included a hands-on component

4. Apply to the Iowa Dental Board (IDB) for registration as a dental assistant

A dental assistant may seek registration by verification if the person is currently licensed or registered as a dental assistant in at least one other jurisdiction that has a scope of practice substantially similar to that of Iowa. The applicant must submit a completed application for registration and fee, verification form completed by the licensing authority that issued applicant’s license, proof of successful completion of jurisprudence exam, disciplinary record, criminal record, and documents related to scope of practice in the other state. Applicants who satisfy all requirements except for passing jurisprudence exam may be issued a temporary registration.

Registered Dental / Orthodontic Assistants Trained in Level 1 Expanded Functions

To perform Level 1 expanded functions, a Registered Dental Assistant must complete a Board-approved training program and receive a certificate of completion in each Level 1 expanded function performed. To qualify for Level 1 expanded function training, a dental assistant must:

1. Be a graduate of a CODA-accredited dental assisting program
OR
2. Hold current DANB certification
OR
3. Have a minimum of three months of clinical practice as a registered dental assistant
OR
4. Have a minimum of three months of clinical practice as a dental assistant in a state that does not require registration.

A dentist may delegate to dental assistants only those expanded function procedures in which training has been successfully completed.

Registered Dental / Orthodontic Assistants Trained in Level 2 Expanded Functions

To perform Level 2 expanded functions, a Registered Dental Assistant must complete a Board-approved training program in each Level 2 expanded function procedure to be performed and receive a certificate of completion. To be eligible for approval, Level 2 expanded functions training must be offered through the University of Iowa College of Dentistry or a program accredited by CODA.

Before beginning Level 2 training, dental assistants must complete all prerequisites established by the accredited school for the Level 2 training to be completed.

A dentist may delegate to dental assistants only those expanded function procedures in which training has been successfully completed.

Dental / Orthodontic Assistant

There are no education or training requirements for this level of dental assisting.

Dental / Orthodontic Assistant with Expanded Duties

To perform expanded functions under the direct supervision of a licensed dentist in the state of Kansas, a dental assistant must become qualified as follows:

Coronal polishing: The dental assistant must undergo appropriate training by a licensed dentist.

Coronal scaling: The dental assistant must successfully complete a Kansas Board-approved course of instruction. The supervising dentist must verify proof of completion of required training and must report to the Kansas Board the name and practice location of each dental assistant who is performing coronal scaling by April 3, 2016, or within 30 days of the dental assistant first performing coronal scaling, whichever is later.

Assisting in the administration and monitoring of nitrous oxide and/or oxygen: The dental assistant must be certified in CPR and successfully complete a Kansas Board-approved course of instruction which includes 16 hours of instruction at a CODA-accredited teaching program which includes both didactic and clinical instruction in: (A) theory of pain control, (B) anatomy, (C) medical history, (D) pharmacology and (E) emergencies and complications.

Dental / Orthodontic Auxiliary

There are no education or training requirements for this level of dental assisting.

Registered Dental / Orthodontic Assistant

The responsibility to register assistants and document CPR training belongs to the employer dentist. To be recognized as a registered dental assistant in Kentucky, a dental assistant must have current certification in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) that meets or exceeds the guidelines of the American Heart Association (AHA). In addition, the dental assistant’s employer dentist must do the following:

Register the dental assistant on his or her Application for Renewal of Dental Licensure
Maintain a personnel file for the registered dental assistant containing the following:
A copy of proof of having current CPR certification
A copy of the certificates of completion of the Coronal Polishing, Radiation Safety, Radiation Techniques Course, and Starting IV Access Lines courses, if the dental assistant has completed these courses
The licensee’s statement attesting to the competency of the dental assistant in the procedures delegated the assistant from the Delegated Duties List
To perform coronal polishing procedures under the direct supervision of a licensed dentist in Kentucky, a registered dental assistant must:

I. Successfully complete an eight-hour course at a CODA-accredited institution AND

II. Obtain a certificate of completion from the authorized institution, which the employer dentist shall retain in the employee’s personnel file

To perform starting intravenous (IV) access lines under the direct supervision of a dentist holding a sedation or anesthesia permit, a registered dental assistant must:

I. Successfully complete a board-approved course in starting IV lines AND

II. Submit documentation of course completion to the supervising dentist, who shall retain such documentation in the employee’s personnel file

To perform radiography procedures under the direct supervision of a licensed dentist in Kentucky, a registered dental assistant must complete the requirements listed under State Radiography Requirements (see Column G)

Note: If the operating dentist authorizes a third-party qualified anesthesia provider to administer moderate sedation, deep sedation, or general anesthesia, the operating dentist shall confirm that at least two (2) members of the onsite care team, including RDAs, maintain current certifications in:
1. BLS for Healthcare Providers; and
2. ACLS if sedation is administered to an adult patient; or
3. PALS if sedation is administered to a pediatric patient.

Dental / Orthodontic Assistant

There are no education or training requirements for this level of dental assisting.

Expanded Duty Dental / Orthodontic Assistant

To qualify, one must:

1a. Complete an expanded duty dental assisting program approved by the Louisiana State Board of Dentistry (LSBD), OR
1b. Graduate from a CODA-accredited dental assisting program, providing documentation that training was provided in all functions which EDDAs are allowed to perform (If a dental assistant’s training is deemed inadequate, the assistant must undergo remediation in a Louisiana board-approved program), AND

2. Complete a Louisiana State Board of Dentistry-approved radiography course (see “”Radiography Requirements””), AND

3. Hold current approved BLS certification, AND

4. Apply to the Louisiana State Board of Dentistry for confirmation of EDDA certification

The Louisiana State Board of Dentistry only recognizes the Expanded Duty Dental Assistant (EDDA) certificate earned through the EDDA course taught at the Louisiana State University (LSU) School of Dentistry, the University of Louisiana at Monroe (ULM) and Southern University at Shreveport.

Note: A dental assistant who has been employed by a licensed, practicing dentist and has worked as a dental assistant prior to July 30, 1992, may continue performing the following expanded duties (under the direct, on-premises supervision of the dentist) without registering as an EDDA:

Place and remove retraction cords
Apply cavity liners, excluding capping of exposed pulpal tissue
Place and remove periodontal dressings
Place, wedge or remove matrices for restoration by the dentist

Unlicensed Person

A dentist may assign additional duties to an unlicensed individual if that person has successfully passed a certification exam from a recognized national dental assisting board. However, these duties must be performed under the dentist’s general supervision.

In any practice setting where local anesthesia, nitrous oxide, or any form of sedation (from minimal to general anesthesia) is used, dentists are responsible for ensuring that all dental staff hold a current Basic Life Support (BLS) for Healthcare Providers certification—and maintain it at all times.

Expanded Function Dental / Orthodontic Assistant

To qualify, one must:

1. Be at least 18 years of age AND

2. Hold current BLS certification AND

3. Pass the jurisprudence exam administered by the Maine Board of Dental Practice with a grade of 90 percent AND

4. Hold a high school diploma or its equivalent AND

5. Hold current DANB CDA certification or hold an active dental hygiene license in good standing under the laws of Maine or another jurisdiction, AND

6. Successfully complete training in a school or program in expanded function dental assisting approved by the Maine Board of Dental Practice, AND

7. Submit an application and pay applicable fee to the Maine Board of Dental Practice for EFDA licensure OR

To qualify for licensure by endorsement, one must:

1. Be at least 18 years of age AND

2. Provide verification of current certification in BLS, AND

3a. Provide evidence of holding a substantially equivalent license in another jurisdiction, including verification of all licenses in good standing under which the applicant practiced in the three years preceding application, documentation of the laws and rules of all jurisdictions in which the applicant practiced during the three years preceding application, and a resume/curriculum vitae describing practice during the three years preceding application, OR

3b. Provide evidence of substantially similar qualifications, including all application materials required for initial licensure as an EFDA (see EFDA licensure requirements above), AND

4. Submit an application, along with all required materials, and pay applicable fee to the Maine Board of Dental Practice

Dental Assistant

There are no education or training requirements for this level of dental assisting.

A dental assistant working under general supervision for a sealant program must:

• Maintain current BLS certification through the American Heart Association or CPR certification for Professional Rescuers through the American Red Cross, AND
• Have at least 400 hours of dental assisting clinical practice in direct dental patient care, AND
• Complete a Board-approved course of at least two hours in infection control following OSHA protocols — OR — hold a Board-recognized credential (Qualified in General Duties, Qualified in Orthodontics, or DANB CDA/COA certification), AND
• Enter into a written agreement with the supervising dentist outlining the terms and conditions of practice under general supervision

Dental Assistant Qualified in General Duties

1. Complete a Board-approved course of at least 35 hours related to Maryland general duties dental assisting, AND

2a. Pass the Maryland General Dental Assisting Expanded Functions (MDG) exam administered by DANB, or

2b. Pass the national DANB Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) exam, AND

3. Apply to the Maryland State Board of Dental Examiners for state recognition as a Maryland Dental Assistant Qualified in General Duties.

Note: While not required by law, it is recommended that a Dental Assistant Qualified in General Duties also earn status as a Dental Radiation Technologist.

Dental Assistant Qualified in Orthodontics

Dental assistants must be Board-recognized to perform orthodontic expanded functions in Maryland.

To qualify, one must:

1. Complete a Board-approved course of at least 35 hours in Maryland orthodontic dental assisting, AND
2. Pass one of the following exams:
   • The Maryland Orthodontic Assisting Expanded Functions (MDO) exam administered by DANB, OR
   • The national DANB Certified Orthodontic Assistant (COA) exam
3. Apply to the Maryland State Board of Dental Examiners for recognition as a Dental Assistant Qualified in Orthodontics

Expanded Function Dental Assistant

To qualify, one must:

1. Be at least 18 years old and of good moral character
AND

2. Be a high school graduate or have attained a high school equivalency
AND

3. Successfully complete a course of study approved by the Maryland State Board of Dental Examiners related to the intraoral procedure for which the applicant has applied for a certificate
AND

4. Hold the appropriate certification from DANB
AND

5. Pass an examination provided by the board
AND

6. Submit to a criminal background check, apply to the Maryland State Board of Dental Examiners, and pay applicable fee

Note: In 2022, Maryland passed legislation (HB 968) creating a new Expanded Function Dental Assistant (EFDA) license to standardize and expand the scope of dental assistants. Once fully implemented, this new license will replace the current “Qualified in General Duties” and “Qualified in Orthodontics” recognition pathways.

Although the law took effect on October 1, 2022, the Maryland State Board of Dental Examiners has not yet finalized the rules for EFDA licensure. Until those rules are adopted, dental assistants must continue to follow the existing requirements for General Duties and Orthodontic qualifications.

Dental / Orthodontic Assistant Trained on the Job

To qualify as a Dental / Orthodontic Assistant Trained on the Job (OJT), one must:

1. Be 18 years of age or older, of good moral character, and not licensed as a dentist or dental hygienist, AND

2. Complete a course in CDC guidelines, AND

3. Hold current certification in CPR/AED for the Professional Rescuer from the American Red Cross or Basic Life Support for Healthcare Providers (BLS) from the American Heart Association, AND

4. Apply to the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Dentistry for registration, AND

5. Take and pass the Massachusetts Board’s ethics and jurisprudence exam.

A person who is at least 18 years of age or older, who has not been previously licensed or registered as a dentist, dental hygienist or dental assistant and who is not in violation of any rule or regulation adopted by the board may practice as a dental assistant under the supervision of a Massachusetts licensed dentist without being registered by the Board for a preliminary, one-time period of up to six consecutive months to commence from the beginning of the initial period of on-the-job training. Prior to commencement of unlicensed on-the-job training, the prospective dental assistant must complete a course in CDC Guidelines and must notify the Board of his or her intent to commence such training on a form prescribed by the Board and submit the following documentation to the Board:

A complete, accurate, signed, and notarized notice of intent
Attestation that the person named in the notice of intent has never practiced or been licensed as a dentist, dental hygienist, or dental assistant
Certification by the supervising dentist that such dentist is licensed to practice dentistry, is responsible for supervising the person named in the notice of intent, has verified that the person has completed education in CDC Guidelines, and is not in violation of any rule or regulation adopted by the Board
Date when the six-month non-licensed on-the-job training period will start

Formally Trained Dental / Orthodontic Assistant

To qualify as a Formally Trained Dental / Orthodontic Assistant (FTDA), one must:

1. Be 18 years of age and of good moral character, AND

2. Successfully complete a dental assisting program accredited by CODA or authorized, approved, accredited, licensed or certified by the Massachusetts Department of Higher Education (DHE), or the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC) or complete a state-approved vocational dental assisting program, AND

3. Hold current certification in CPR/AED for the Professional Rescuer from the American Red Cross or Basic Life Support for Healthcare Providers (BLS) from the American Heart Association, AND

4. Apply to the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Dentistry for registration, AND

5. Take and pass the Massachusetts Board’s ethics and jurisprudence exam.

Certified Assistant

To qualify as a Certified Assistant (CA), one must:

1. Be 18 years of age or older and of good moral character, AND

2. Hold any current national certification from DANB (CDA, COA, CPFDA or CRFDA) or certification from another Board-approved certifying body at the time of registration, AND

3. Hold current certification in CPR/AED for the Professional Rescuer from the American Red Cross or Basic Life Support for Healthcare Providers (BLS) from the American Heart Association, AND

4. Apply to the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Dentistry for registration, AND

5. Take and pass the Massachusetts Board’s ethics and jurisprudence exam.

Expanded Function Dental / Orthodontic Assistant

To qualify as an Expanded Function Dental / Orthodontic Assistant (EFDA), one must:

1. Be 18 years of age or older and of good moral character, AND

2. Hold any current national DANB certification (CDA, COA, CPFDA or CRFDA) or certification from another Board-approved certifying body at the time of registration, AND

3. Complete a formal program in the Massachusetts delegable expanded functions at a CODA-accredited program, AND

4. Hold current certification in CPR/AED for the Professional Rescuer from the American Red Cross or Basic Life Support for Healthcare Providers (BLS) from the American Heart Association, AND

5. Apply to the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Dentistry for registration, AND

6. Take and pass the Massachusetts Board’s ethics and jurisprudence exam.

Note: As of spring 2022, the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Dentistry has temporarily stopped issuing EFDA licenses; the Board has formed a workgroup to revisit the requirements for licensure as an EFDA.

Unregistered Dental/ Orthodontic Auxiliary

Before a dentist may delegate a function to a UDA, the UDA must:

I. Submit proof of current certification in BLS or ACLS for healthcare providers with a hands-on component from an agency or organization that grants certification in accordance to AHA standards earned within the previous two years, AND

II. Submit proof of at least 1 hour of training in infection control, which must include sterilization of hand pieces, personal protective equipment, and the CDC’s infection control guidelines

A licensee may delegate to an unlicensed dental auxiliary otherwise qualified by education, training, or experience the performance of selected acts, tasks, or functions where the acts, tasks, or functions fall within the scope of practice of the licensee’s profession and will be performed under the licensee’s supervision.

Registered Dental / Orthodontic Assistant

To become licensed as a Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) in Michigan, one must:

1. Be of good moral character, AND

2. Receive a degree or certificate from a CODA-accredited educational program (Note: Individuals who earned the RDA credential prior to March 22, 2004 must complete additional expanded functions training courses before performing specified expanded functions), AND

3. Pass a board-approved written and clinical exam, AND

4. Submit proof of current certification in BLS or ACLS for healthcare providers with a hands-on component from an agency or organization that grants certification in accordance with AHA standards earned within the previous two years, AND

5. Complete two hours of implicit bias training within the five years prior to registration, AND

6. Complete a one-time training in identifying victims of human trafficking, AND

7. Complete the fingerprinting/criminal background check process, AND

8. Apply for a license to the Michigan Board of Dentistry

Additionally, to receive an RDA license, an applicant must demonstrate a working knowledge of the English language under the minimum standards established by the Michigan Department of Licensing & Regulatory Affairs. See Section R.338.7002b of the Michigan Administrative Rules for further details.

Dental / Orthodontic Assistant

The dentist is responsible for ensuring that the assistant:

Completes and maintains consecutive and current CPR certification, AND
Complies with the most current infection control practices for a dental setting.

Licensed Dental / Orthodontic Assistant

To earn status as a Licensed Dental Assistant in Minnesota, dental assistants must:

1. Pass the national DANB Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) exam within the last five years, AND

2a. Graduate from a MN CODA-accredited dental assisting program, or
2b. Graduate from a CODA-accredited program in a state other than MN and, upon MN Board review of curriculum, complete additional coursework, AND

3. Pass the MN Dental Assistant State Licensing exam (formerly known as the MN Registration exam) within the last five years, AND

4. Pass the MN Jurisprudence Exam within the last five years, AND

5. Provide proof of current CPR certification, AND

6. Submit to a criminal background check, AND

7. Apply for licensure to the MN Board of Dentistry with accompanying fee and current government-issued identification.

All licensed dental assistants must maintain a consecutive and current certificate in Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) at the BLS level.

Note: A dental assistant who received and maintained registration in MN prior to Jan. 1, 2010, can continue to practice as a licensed dental assistant without completing any further requirements. The licensed dental assistant must submit the fee for an original license to the MN board at the time of renewal.

To perform restorative procedures limited to placing, contouring and adjusting amalgam restorations, glass ionomers, and supragingival composite restorations (class I, II and V) where the margins are entirely within the enamel, and adapting and cementing stainless steel crowns, a Licensed Dental Assistant must have completed a MN Board of Dentistry-approved course in these functions and have submitted proof of completion to the MN Board of Dentistry.

To administer local anesthesia, a Licensed Dental Assistant must have completed the following:

1. at least one year of experience in general chairside dental assisting;

2. a board-approved didactic and clinical course at a CODA-accredited program that requires clinical competency in the administration of local anesthesia;

3. the CDCA-WREB-CITA local anesthesia exam or any other board-approved, nationally recognized local anesthetic exam; and

4. application for a local anesthesia certification through the board.

Licensed Dental / Orthodontic Assistant (LDA) with Collaborative Practice Authorization

A Licensed Dental Assistant may provide certain approved dental assisting services for a healthcare facility, program, or nonprofit organization even if a dentist has not first examined the patient, provided a diagnosis, or created a treatment plan—and even if no dentist is present on-site. However, this is only allowed if the Licensed Dental Assistant has met specific qualifications, including:

1. Entered into a collaborative agreement with a licensed dentist, which must be part of a collaborative agreement established between a licensed dentist and a dental hygienist, that designates authorization for the services being provided by the dental assistant

AND

2. Documented completion of a course on medical emergencies within each continuing education cycle

Dental / Orthodontic Assistant

All dental assistants involved in direct patient care must be certified in CPR (within 180 days of employment). There are no other education or training requirements for this level of dental assisting.

Dental / Orthodontic Assistant

There are no education or training requirements for this level of dental assisting.

A dental assistant or holder of DANB’s CDA certification may, under direct supervision, assist in the administration of and monitor nitrous oxide analgesia if he or she meets the following requirements:

1. Complete one of the following:

a. Successfully complete formal certified training in a course approved by the Missouri Dental Board AND pass an approved competency test regarding clinical and didactic training OR

b. Submit proof to the Missouri Dental Board of having been certified in another state to assist the administration of and monitoring of nitrous oxide subsequent to equivalent training and testing

AND

2. Obtain a permit from the Missouri Dental Board

Expanded Functions Dental / Orthodontic Assistant

To earn the expanded functions permit, one must:

1. Complete one of the following:

a. Hold DANB Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) certification and graduate from a CODA-accredited dental assisting program in which competency testing in the appropriate expanded functions category* was completed, OR

b. Hold DANB CDA certification and complete a Missouri Dental Board-approved expanded functions training course, OR

c. Pass the Missouri Dental Assisting Skills* exam administered by DANB (or another exam approved by the Missouri Dental Board) and complete a Missouri Dental Board-approved expanded functions training course
(*formerly named the Missouri Test of Basic Dental Assisting Skills)

AND

2. Hold current certification in the American Heart Association’s Basic Life Support for the Healthcare Provider (BLS), or an equivalent certification approved by the Missouri Dental Board

AND

3. Submit proof of meeting requirements along with application form and established fee to the Missouri Dental Board

*Expanded functions permits are issued in five categories: Restorative I, Restorative II, Orthodontics, Fixed Prosthodontics, and Removable Prosthodontics.

Dental / Orthodontic Auxiliary

To qualify, one must:

Graduate from a CODA-accredited dental assisting program, OR
Receive instruction and training by a licensed dentist.

DANB Certified Dental / Orthodontic Assistant Requirements

To perform duties under the general supervision of a licensed dentist, a dental auxiliary must:

Hold DANB Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) certification

Dental / Orthodontic Assistant

There are no education or training requirements for this level of dental assisting.

Dental assistants who assist in the administration of general anesthesia, deep sedation, moderate sedation or minimal sedation must be currently certified in basic life support skills (BLS) or the equivalent.

To monitor nitrous oxide, a dental assistant must hold current certification in healthcare cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) from a course accredited by the American Heart Association, American Red Cross, or an equivalent certification approved by the Board of Dentistry.

Dental / Orthodontic Assistant Qualified in Coronal Polishing

To perform coronal polishing procedures under the indirect supervision of a licensed dentist in Nebraska, a dental assistant must:

1a. Graduate from a CODA-accredited dental assisting program which includes a coronal polishing course, OR

1b. Complete one year (1,500 hours minimum) of clinical work experience as a dental assistant and a Nebraska Board-approved course in polishing procedures.

Licensed Dental / Orthodontic Assistant

Minimum education: high school diploma (or equivalent)

Required coursework:

To qualify as a Licensed Dental Assistant in Nebraska, a dental assistant must:

1. Hold a high school diploma (or equivalent); AND

2a. Graduate from a CODA-accredited dental assisting program; OR

2b. Complete one year (1,500 hours minimum) of dental assisting experience in the five years preceding application; AND

3. Pass DANB’s CDA Certification or an equivalent exam approved by the Nebraska Board of Dentistry; AND

4. Pass a jurisprudence exam approved by the Board covering Nebraska statutes, rules and regulations governing dental assisting, AND

5. Submit proof of age and citizenship and apply to the Department of Health and Human Services for an LDA license

To qualify for licensure by reciprocity see Nebraska rules 172 NAC 53 for more information.

With Board-approved education and testing—along with the appropriate permit from the Department of Health—a licensed dental assistant in Nebraska may perform certain expanded functions under indirect supervision. These functions include:

• Taking dental impressions for fixed prostheses
• Taking impressions and making minor adjustments for removable prostheses
• Cementing prefabricated fixed prostheses on primary teeth
• Monitoring and administering nitrous oxide analgesia

Note: Under the Nebraska Uniform Credentialing Act, applicants must be at least 19 years old and of good moral character to qualify for an LDA (Licensed Dental Assistant) license.

Expanded Function Dental / Orthodontic Assistant

To qualify as an Expanded Function Dental Assistant in Nebraska, one must:

1. Hold a valid license as a Licensed Dental Assistant at the time of application; AND
2. Complete a minimum of 1,500 hours of work experience as a Licensed Dental Assistant; AND
3. Complete board approved courses and acceptable clinical exams in expanded function dental assisting as approved by the Board; AND
4. Pass a jurisprudence exam approved by the Board covering Nebraska statutes, rules and regulations governing dental assisting, AND
5. Apply to the Department of Health and Human Services for the applicable EFDA permit

An Expanded Function Dental Assistant (EFDA) in Nebraska may perform specific restorative procedures under indirect supervision, provided they have completed Board-approved education and testing and hold the appropriate permit from the Department of Health. Permitted duties include:

• Placing Level One simple restorations (one surface)
• Placing Level Two complete restorations (multiple surfaces)

Dental / Orthodontic Assistant

As part of the license renewal process, any licensed dentist who owns a dental office or treatment facility must provide the following information:

The name and address of each dental assistant involved in infection control procedures

The start date when each assistant began performing infection control tasks

A signed statement confirming that each listed assistant has received proper training and is qualified to operate sterilization equipment and perform all related duties in accordance with CDC guidelines

Note: Per legislation signed in 2023 (SB 310), Nevada will begin requiring successful completion of DANB’s CDA certification for the newly recognized expanded function dental assistant level. As of this writing, the Nevada Revised Statutes have not yet incorporated the language of this legislation, nor have the Nevada State Board of Dental Examiners promulgated rules implementing EFDA licensure. For more information, please contact the NSBDE directly.

Expanded Function Dental / Orthodontic Assistant (EFDA)

To be eligible for licensure as an expanded function dental assistant, an applicant must:

I. Be at least 18 years of age

AND

II. a. Graduate from an accredited program for dental assisting with expanded functions OR

b. Successfully complete a course of training for EFDAs and either:

1. Graduate from an accredited program for dental assisting without expanded functions OR

2. Be employed as a dental assistant full-time for at least 2 years or part-time for at least 4 years and pass the DANB CDA exam

AND

III. Hold a current certification in the techniques of administering cardiopulmonary resuscitation

AND

IV. Pass a written clinical exam given by the Board upon subjects as the Board deems necessary for practice as an EFDA

AND

V. Pass a written exam given by the Board on Nevada EFDA laws and regulations

For licensure by endorsement, an applicant must:

I. Provide proof of current licensure as an EFDA in another state or territory of the United States, or the District of Columbia

AND

II. a. Graduate from an accredited program for dental assisting with expanded functions OR

b. Be employed as a dental assistant or an EFDA full-time for at least 2 years or part-time for at least 4 years

AND

III. Pass a written exam given by the Board on Nevada EFDA laws and regulations

The Board may require an applicant for licensure by endorsement to complete any training that the Board deems necessary for the applicant to be able to practice expanded function dental assisting with the same degree of competence as a person who possesses the qualifications described above.

Note: In 2023, the Nevada Legislature passed SB 310, establishing a new Expanded Function Dental Assistant (EFDA) role authorized to perform specific advanced duties. While the law took effect on January 1, 2024, the Nevada State Board of Dental Examiners is still in the process of finalizing the rules to implement this new licensure level. For the latest updates or application guidance, please contact the Board directly.

Traditional Dental / Orthodontic Assistant

There are no education or training requirements for this level of dental assisting. A traditional dental assistant is a dental assistant who is neither a Certified Dental Assistant nor a Graduate Dental Assistant.

Certified Dental / Orthodontic Assistant (CDA)

Dental assistants who hold the national DANB CDA certification are qualified in the state of New Hampshire to perform the functions listed in section Den 401.02 of the rules of the New Hampshire Board of Dental Examiners. For some functions, CDA certificants must also have 400 hours of clinical dental assisting experience before performing the function.

Graduate Dental / Orthodontic Assistant

Graduate Dental Assistants are authorized to perform the functions listed in section Den 401.02 of the rules of the New Hampshire Board of Dental Examiners. Dental assistants in New Hampshire can earn status as a Graduate Dental Assistant by graduating from a dental assisting program accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA).

Dental / Orthodontic Assistant Qualified to Perform Expanded Functions

To perform any expanded duty in New Hampshire, with the exception of restorative duties restricted to EFDAs, a dental assistant must:

1. Be at least 18 years of age; AND

2. Meet the specific prerequisites, course, certification, or experience requirements for each function as listed below:

Introduction to Dental Assisting
1. Be a Graduate Dental Assistant OR hold DANB’s CDA certification OR

2a. Have at least 200 hours of clinical dental assisting experience prior to course, AND

2b. Successfully complete a course or exam in Introduction to Dental Assisting meeting requirements established by rule of the NHBDE.

Function: Infection control in the dental office
1. Be a Graduate Dental Assistant OR hold DANB’s CDA certification OR

2. Successfully complete a course or exam in infection control meeting requirements established by rule of the NHBDE

(Note: The DALE Foundation’ s DANB ICE Reviewcourse meets this requirement. Successful performance on DANB’s Infection Control exam[ICE] also meets this requirement.)

Function: Provisional crown and bridge restorations
1a. Be a Graduate Dental Assistant OR hold DANB’s CDA certification, AND

1b. Successfully complete a course or exam in provisional crown and bridge restorations meeting requirements established by rule of the NHBDE.

OR

2a. Have at least 200 hours of clinical dental assisting experience prior to course,

AND

2b. Meet Introduction to Dental Assisting course requirements (see requirements above), AND

2c. Qualify in infection control (see requirements above), AND

2d. Successfully complete a course or exam in provisional crown and bridge restorations meeting requirements established by rule of the NHBDE

Function: Orthodontic duties
1a. Be a Graduate Dental Assistant OR hold DANB’s CDA certification, AND

1b. Successfully complete a course or exam in orthodontic duties meeting requirements established by rule of the NHBDE

OR

2a. Hold DANB’ s CDA certification or have at least 400 hours of clinical dental assisting experience prior to course, AND

2b. Meet Introduction to Dental Assisting course requirements (see requirements above), AND

2c. Qualify in infection control (see requirements above), AND

2d. Successfully complete a course or exam in orthodontic duties meeting requirements established by rule of the NHBDE

Function: Dental sealants
1a. Be a Graduate Dental Assistant OR hold DANB’s CDA certification, AND

1b. Successfully complete a course or exam in dental sealants meeting requirements established by rule of the NHBDE

OR

2a. Have at least 400 hours of clinical dental assisting experience prior to course, AND

2b. Meet Introduction to Dental Assisting course requirements above, AND

2c. Qualify in infection control (see requirements on prior page), AND 2d. Successfully complete a course or exam in dental sealants meeting requirements established by rule of the NHBDE

Function: Coronal polishing
1a. Be a Graduate Dental Assistant OR hold DANB’s CDA certification, AND

1b. Have at least 400 hours of clinical dental assisting experience, AND

1c. Successfully complete a course and exam in coronal polishing meeting requirements established by rule of the NHBDE

OR

2a. Have at least 400 hours of clinical dental assisting experience, AND

2b. Meet Introduction to Dental Assisting course requirements (see requirements above), AND

2c. Qualify in infection control (see requirements on prior page), AND

2d. Successfully complete a course and exam in coronal polishing meeting requirements established by rule of the NHBDE

Function: Monitoring nitrous oxide administration
1a. Be a Graduate Dental Assistant OR hold DANB’s CDA certification, AND

1b. Successfully complete a course and exam in nitrous oxide meeting requirements established by rule of the NHBDE, AND

1c. Be currently certified in CPR

OR

2a. Hold DANB’ s CDA certification or have at least 400 hours of clinical dental assisting experience prior to course, AND

2b. Meet Introduction to Dental Assisting course requirements (see requirements above), AND

2c. Qualify in infection control (see requirements on prior page), AND

2d. Successfully complete a course and exam in monitoring the administration of nitrous oxide anesthesia meeting requirements established by rule of the NHBDE, AND

Function: In-office tooth whitening
1a. Be a Graduate Dental Assistant OR hold DANB’s CDA certification, AND

1b. Successfully complete a course or exam in in-office tooth whitening meeting requirements established by rule of the NHBDE

OR

2a. Hold DANB’ s CDA certification or have at least 400 hours of clinical dental assisting experience prior to course, AND

2b. Meet Introduction to Dental Assisting course requirements (see requirements above), AND

2c. Qualify in infection control (see requirements above), AND

2d. Successfully complete a course and exam in in-office tooth whitening meeting requirements established by rule of the NHBDE

State Requirements for Public Health Supervision
To perform specified duties under public health supervision to assist a Certified Public Health Dental Hygienist (CPHDH), a dental assistant must meet Introduction to Dental Assisting course requirements and infection control in the dental office (see requirements above).

Expanded Function Dental / Orthodontic Auxiliary

To qualify to place, contour and adjust direct restorative materials within the oral cavity, one must register as an Expanded Function Dental Auxiliary (EFDA) with the New Hampshire Board of Dental Examiners (NHBDE). To register, one must:

1. Be at least 18 years of age; AND

2. Be a registered dental hygienist or a Graduate Dental Assistant or hold current DANB CDA certification (and be qualified to perform preliminary inspection of the oral cavity), AND

3. Have a minimum of 4,500 hours of dental clinical experience; AND

4. Obtain a recommendation for the EFDA course from a NH-licensed dentist; AND

5. Complete an EFDA course in dental restorations meeting requirements established by rule of the NHBDE; AND

6. Be currently certified in BLS-HCP; AND

7. Apply to the NHBDE for an EFDA permit.

(Note: A dental auxiliary qualified in these restorative functions in another jurisdiction may qualify for endorsement by the Board by presenting written documentation of equivalent training and a letter from a supervising dentist attesting to experience with direct restorations within the previous two years.)

Unregistered Dental Assistant

There are no education or training requirements for this level of dental assisting.

Registered Dental (RDA)

To perform expanded functions under the direct supervision of a licensed dentist in the state of New Jersey, dental assistants must be licensed by the New Jersey State Board of Dentistry as a Registered Dental Assistant (RDA).

To register as an RDA, one must:

1. Successfully complete high school or its equivalent, AND

2. Obtain a certificate of completion of the online New Jersey Jurisprudence orientation (within six months prior to application), AND

3. Pass DANB’s national Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) (within 10 years prior to application), AND

4a. Graduate from a New Jersey Board-approved CODA-accredited dental assisting program (within 10 years prior to application), or

4b. Obtain at least two years’ work experience as a dental assistant (within five years prior to application), successfully complete a New Jersey Board- approved program in expanded functions, and pass the New Jersey Expanded Duties-General Exam (administered by DANB), or

4c. Obtain at least two years’ work experience as a dental assistant (within five years prior to application) and pass the New Jersey Expanded Duties-General Exam (administered by DANB), AND

5. Apply for licensure as an RDA to the New Jersey State Board of Dentistry.

Limited Registered Dental Assistant in Orthodontics (LRDA-O)

To perform specified orthodontic functions under the direct supervision of a licensed dentist in the state of New Jersey, a dental assistant must be licensed by the New Jersey State Board of Dentistry as a Limited Registered Dental Assistant in Orthodontics (LRDA-O). To register as an LRDA-O, one must:

1a. Satisfactorily complete, within the past 10 years, a training program for dental assistants approved by the Board and accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA), AND

1b. Obtain a certificate of completion of the online New Jersey Jurisprudence orientation (within six months prior to application), AND

1c. Have passed, within the past 10 years, DANB’s Certified Orthodontic Assistant (COA) exam, Topical Fluoride (TF) exam, and the Coronal Polish (CP) exam, AND

1d. Apply to the New Jersey State Board of Dentistry for registration as an LRDA-O.

OR

2a. Be a high school graduate (or its equivalent), AND

2b. Obtain a certificate of completion of the online New Jersey Jurisprudence orientation (within six months prior to application), AND

2c. Have at least two years’ work experience as a dental assistant under the supervision of a licensed dentist holding a specialty permit in orthodontics during the five-year period prior to application, AND

2d. Have passed, within the past 10 years, DANB’s Certified Orthodontic Assistant (COA) exam, Topical Fluoride (TF) exam, and the Coronal Polish (CP) exam, AND

2e. Apply to the New Jersey State Board of Dentistry for registration as an LRDA-O.

Note: To satisfy the work experience requirement for the second pathway, a dental assistant must complete the work experience requirements needed to sit for the COA examination.

Dental / Orthodontic Assistant

There are no education or training requirements for this level of dental assisting.

Note: In New Mexico, dental assistants performing orthodontic procedures must hold state certification in specific expanded functions or earn EFDA certification. While “orthodontic assistant” is not a separate license, many duties commonly performed in orthodontic settings fall under the EFDA role.

Expanded Function Dental / Orthodontic Assistant (State-Certified)

To qualify, one must:

Rubber cup coronal polishing and application of topical fluoride:

1. Study by independent preparation or in a training course in the functions and assist with/observe five cases of rubber cup coronal polishing on children and adults and five applications of topical fluoride on children, AND
2. Pass DANB’s Coronal Polish exam and DANB’s Topical Fluoride exam, AND
3. Apply to the New Mexico Board of Dental Health Care for advanced certification in coronal polishing and application of topical fluoride, AND
4. Pass the New Mexico Jurisprudence (take-home) exam, AND
5. Perform rubber cup coronal polishing on five adults and children and application of topical fluoride on five children while being personally observed by a licensed dentist, dental hygienist, or dental assistant certified in rubber cup coronal polishing and application of topical fluoride.

Pit and Fissure Sealants:

1. Have 2,080 hours of dental assisting chairside experience in the two years prior to application, AND
2. Study by independent preparation or in a training course in the function, AND
3. Assist with/observe 12 cases of application of pit and fissure sealants, AND
4. Pass DANB’s Sealants exam, AND
5. Apply to the New Mexico Board of Dental Health Care for advanced certification in pit and fissure sealants, AND
6. Pass the New Mexico Jurisprudence (take-home) exam, AND
7. Apply pit and fissure sealants on five patients while being personally observed by a licensed dentist or dental hygienist.

Holders of state-certification in dental assisting expanded functions and EFDAs must have formal training in infection control from a course approved in accordance with New Mexico Board of Dental Health Care rules and regulations.

Note: Holding a current DANB Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) certification automatically qualifies a dental assistant to apply for state certification for each of these expanded functions.

A dental assistant who is certified to perform dental radiography, coronal polishing, pit and fissure sealants, and/or topical fluoride procedures in another state with requirements not less stringent than those in New Mexico may apply for state certification based on credentials (see New Mexico Rules and Regulations, section 16.5.33.13(opens in a new window) for details).

Expanded Function Dental / Orthodontic Auxiliary

To earn New Mexico certification as an expanded function dental auxiliary (EFDA), one must:

1a. Complete an accepted EFDA course in a program approved by the New Mexico Board of Dental Health Care or accredited by CODA OR

1b. Complete a minimum of five years, 1000 hours per year, continuous employment as a dental assistant or dental hygienist, AND

complete a course of study in subject areas prescribed by the board, including a post-test approved by the board, AND

obtain a recommendation for EFDA certification from a supervising dentist, AND

2. Earn state certification in radiography, rubber cup coronal polishing and application of topical fluoride and pit and fissure sealant expanded functions*, AND

3. Pass a clinical exam accepted by the New Mexico Board of Dental Health Care for EFDA certification, AND

4. Complete the New Mexico jurisprudence exam with a score of at least 75%, AND

5. Apply for an apprenticeship permit from the NM Board of Dental Health Care, AND

6. Complete an apprenticeship within 180 days, AND

7. Return permit and a signed affidavit to New Mexico Board of Dental Health Care, which will then issue EFDA certificate

*Note: A new rule effective 3/13/18 specifies that all current EFDA permit holders must earn the four state certificates in expanded functions no later than 7/1/19. EFDA permits will suspend automatically if the expanded functions certifications are not current, and once they are earned, the EFDA permit will become valid until its regular expiration date.

Community Dental / Orthodontic Health Coordinator (CDHC)

New Mexico CDHCs may perform specified preventive, restorative, and palliative procedures under general supervision of a dentist. To qualify, one must:

• Have a high school diploma or equivalent, or a college degree, AND
• Have New Mexico certification in radiography, rubber cup coronal polishing and application of topical fluoride and pit and fissure sealant expanded functions (see above for requirements), AND
• Complete the New Mexico jurisprudence exam with a score of at least 75%, AND
• Successfully complete a CDHC program approved by the New Mexico Board of Dental Health Care.

CDHCs must have formal training in infection control from a course approved in accordance with New Mexico Board of Dental Health Care rules and regulations.

Dental / Orthodontic Assistant with a Limited Permit

A person who has completed a dental assisting program or an alternative course of study in dental assisting acceptable to the New York State Education Department may apply for a limited (one-year) permit prior to taking and passing the required exams. A limited permittee may perform all tasks designated to Registered Dental Assistants, under the direct personal supervision of a licensed dentist. The permit expires after one year and may be renewed for an additional year.

Registered Dental / Orthodontic Assistant

A dental assistant in the state of New York must be licensed in order to perform supportive services under the direct supervision of a licensed dentist. To be licensed as a Registered Dental Assistant in the state of New York, one must:

1. Be at least 18 years of age, AND

2. Be a high school graduate or its equivalent, AND

3. Be of good moral character, as determined by the New York State Education Department, AND

4. Successfully complete one of these two education options:

a. A New York-approved one-year course of study in dental assisting, consisting of 24 semester hours, in a degree-granting institution or a Board of Cooperative Educational Services (BOCES) program that includes at least 200 hours of clinical experience or an equivalent approved course of study in dental assisting in a non-degree granting institution which shall not be a professional association or professional organization, OR

b. An alternate course of study in dental assisting acceptable to the New York State Education Department that includes at least 1,000 hours of relevant work experience in accordance with the Commissioner’s regulations, AND

5. Successfully complete one of the following two exam pathways:

a. PATHWAY I: Pass all three components of the national DANB Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) exam : Radiation Health and Safety (RHS), Infection Control (ICE), and General Chairside (GC), or

b. PATHWAY II: Pass DANB’s RHS and ICE component exams along with the New York Professional Dental Assisting (NYPDA) exam, either Recognized Dental Assistant Levels
Education & Training Requirements
Dental Assistant with a Limited Permit
A person who has completed a dental assisting program or an alternative course of study in dental assisting acceptable to the New York State Education Department may apply for a limited (one-year) permit prior to taking and passing the required exams. A limited permittee may perform all tasks designated to Registered Dental Assistants, under the direct personal supervision of a licensed dentist. The permit expires after one year and may be renewed for an additional year.
Registered Dental Assistant
A dental assistant in the state of New York must be licensed in order to perform supportive services under the direct supervision of a licensed dentist. To be licensed as a Registered Dental Assistant in the state of New York, one must:

1. Be at least 18 years of age, AND

2. Be a high school graduate or its equivalent, AND

3. Be of good moral character, as determined by the New York State Education Department, AND

4. Successfully complete one of these two education options:

a. A New York-approved one-year course of study in dental assisting, consisting of 24 semester hours, in a degree-granting institution or a Board of Cooperative Educational Services (BOCES) program that includes at least 200 hours of clinical experience or an equivalent approved course of study in dental assisting in a non-degree granting institution which shall not be a professional association or professional organization, OR

b. An alternate course of study in dental assisting acceptable to the New York State Education Department that includes at least 1,000 hours of relevant work experience in accordance with the Commissioner’s regulations, AND

5. Successfully complete one of the following two exam pathways:

a. PATHWAY I: Pass all three components of the national DANB Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) exam : Radiation Health and Safety (RHS), Infection Control (ICE), and General Chairside (GC), or

b. PATHWAY II: Pass DANB’s RHS and ICE component exams along with the New York Professional Dental Assisting (NYPDA) exam, either separately or together through the New York Combination Exam: NYPDA, ICE, and RHS, AND

6. Apply for licensure from the New York State Education Department after completing all of the above requirements.

Note: Dental assistants who have been granted a license in New York may identify themselves as “Registered Dental Assistant” or “RDA.”

Please note: Candidates not eligible for CDA certification may now take the three exams required for New York RDA licensure in one exam administration. To apply for the combined exam administration, select “RHS/ICE/NYPDA” on the exam application in the New York exam application packet.

Dental / Orthodontic Assistant I

A Dental Assistant I (DA I) in North Carolina is an individual who may perform basic supportive dental procedures under the direct control and supervision of a licensed dentist.

To qualify to monitor patients under nitrous oxide, a DA I must:

1. Successfully complete a North Carolina Board-approved seven-hour course in nitrous oxide-oxygen conscious sedation.

Dental / Orthodontic Assistant II in Training

A Dental Assistant II in Training (DA II in Training) is an individual who is participating in on-the-job training to become a DA II. Training consists of at least two years (3,000 hours) of chairside assisting, during which period the assistant may be trained and allowed to perform most of the functions of a DA II under the direct control and supervision of a North Carolina licensed dentist.

To begin receiving on-the-job training in DAII duties, a dental assistant must

1. Complete a 3-hour course in dental office emergencies AND

2. Complete a 3-hour course in sterilization and infection control

A DA II in Training may not monitor patients under nitrous oxide, take radiographs, or perform coronal polishing until he or she successfully completes the required courses in these topics.

Dental / Orthodontic Assistant II (DA II)

To perform expanded functions under the direct supervision of a licensed dentist in North Carolina, one must be classified as a DA II. To qualify as a DA II, one must:

1. Hold a current Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) certification, AND

2a. Successfully complete a CODA-accredited dental assisting program or one academic year or longer in a CODA-accredited dental hygiene program, or

2b. Complete a dental assistant program offered through a branch of the U.S. armed forces at the Medical Education & Training Campus that includes a clinical rotation providing dental assisting for live patients, or

2c. Pass the national DANB Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) exam, or

2d. Complete full-time employment as a DA I for 2 years of the preceding 5, consisting of at least 3,000 total and complete a 3-hour course in dental office emergencies and complete a 3-hour course in sterilization and infection control and, after completing these courses and CPR certification, receive training in any dental delivery setting and perform the functions of a DA II under the direct control and supervision of a licensed dentist

To qualify to perform coronal polishing, a DA II must:

1. Complete a course in coronal polishing identical to that taught in a CODA-accredited dental assisting program, or by a licensed North Carolina hygienist or dentist lasting at least seven clock hours and meeting content requirements established by the North Carolina Board, before using a slow speed handpiece with rubber cup or bristle brush attachment.

To qualify to monitor patients under nitrous oxide, a DA II must:

1. Successfully complete a North Carolina Board-approved seven-hour course in nitrous oxide-oxygen conscious sedation.

Note: At its April 8, 2021 meeting, the North Carolina Board of Dental Examiners opined that a foreign trained dentist may serve as a Dental Assistant II, provided that their credentials are verified by the supervising dentist.

Dental Assistant

A dental assistant in North Dakota may perform basic supportive dental procedures specified by the state dental practice act under the direct supervision of a licensed dentist.

Every dental assistant in North Dakota must have a current certificate of proficiency in cardiopulmonary resuscitation.

Note: A Qualified Dental Assistant (QDA) – limited radiology registrant may also perform any of the functions allowed to a dental assistant.

Qualified Dental Assistant

To earn status as a Qualified Dental Assistant (QDA) in the state of North Dakota, one must:

1a. Complete 300 hours of on-the-job clinical training and either:

have passed DANB’s National Entry Level Dental Assistant (NELDA) exam within one year prior to application or
have passed DANB’s NELDA exam and completed, within two years prior to application, 16 hours of continuing education, OR
1b. Pass DANB’s NELDA exam and the North Dakota Department of Career and Technical Education dental assisting education program association, OR

1c. Successfully complete a North Dakota board-approved equivalent course within one year prior to application, OR

1d. Be licensed in good standing in another jurisdiction and possess qualifications, education, or experience substantially similar to the requirements for licensure in North Dakota. Applicants must submit evidence of at least one year of prior employment as a dental assistant, have completed 16 hours of continuing education, and meet any other requirement set by the Board, AND

2. Pass a written examination of the laws and rules governing the practice of dentistry in North Dakota within one year of application, AND

3. Maintain current CPR certification, AND

4. Provide verification of completing an infection control course within two years prior to application (if passing DANB’s ICE exam occurred more than two years prior to application)

5. Apply to the North Dakota State Board of Dental Examiners.

Registered Dental Assistant

To earn status as a Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) in North Dakota, one must:

1a. Within one year prior to application, have passed DANB’s national Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) exam or have completed a CODA-accredited or North Dakota board-approved dental assisting program, OR

1b. Have passed DANB’s national CDA exam and submit evidence of prior employment as a dental assistant or have completed a CODA-accredited or North Dakota board-approved dental assisting program (more than one year prior to application), and have completed 16 hours of continuing education within two years prior to application, OR

1c. Be licensed in good standing in another jurisdiction and possess qualifications, education, or experience substantially similar to the requirements for licensure in North Dakota. Applicants must submit evidence of at least one year of prior employment as a dental assistant, have completed 16 hours of continuing education, and meet any other requirement set by the Board, OR

1d. Have passed an examination administered by the Joint Commission on National Dental Examinations UCNDE) or the dental hygiene certification board of Canada (FDHRC) and have completed 16 hours of continuing education within two years prior to application

2. Pass a written examination of the laws and rules governing the practice of dentistry in North Dakota within one year of application, AND

3. Maintain current CPR certification, AND

4. Provide verification of completing an infection control course within two years prior to application (if graduation from approved program or passing DANB’ s CDA exam occurred more than two years prior to application), AND

5. Apply for registration to the North Dakota State Board of Dental Examiners (NDSBDE)

To apply pit and fissure sealants under the general supervision of a licensed dentist, a registered dental assistant must provide documentation of successful completion of a North Dakota board-approved sealant course or training that includes hand-skills, and has received an endorsement from the board.

Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) with Restorative Functions Permit

To earn a permit to perform specified restorative functions under the direct supervision of a dentist, a Registered Dental Assistant must:

1a. Complete a board-approved curriculum from a program accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation or other board-approved course, AND

1b. Pass an examination from a dental testing agency approved by the board within the last five years

The Board may require completion of the Restorative Function (RF) component of DANB’s Certified Restorative Functions Dental Assistant (CRFDA) certification exam(opens in a new window).

OR

2a. Pass an examination from a dental testing agency more than five years from the date of application, AND

2b. Complete the RF component of DANB’s CRFDA certification examination(opens in a new window), AND

2c. Provide evidence from another state or jurisdiction where the applicant legally is or was authorized to perform restorative functions and certification from the supervising dentist of successful completion of at least 25 restorative procedures within the immediate five years prior to the date of application.

Dental Anesthesia Assistant

To provide supportive anesthesia care, a dental anesthesia assistant must possess the expertise to do so in a safe and effective manner and receive education in the perioperative and emergent care management of patients undergoing dental office sedation and anesthesia.

Every dental anesthesia assistant in North Dakota must have a current certificate of proficiency in cardiopulmonary resuscitation.

Dental Anesthesia Assistant with Anesthesia Assisting Permits (Class I and II)

To earn a permit to perform specified anesthesia assisting functions under the supervision of a dentist authorized by permit to provide moderate sedation, deep sedation, or general anesthesia, a Dental Anesthesia Assistant may earn a Class I or a Class II anesthesia assistant permit.

To earn a Class I anesthesia assistant permit, a Dental Anesthesia Assistant must:

Complete a board-approved dental anesthesia assistant education and training course, AND
Submit proof of current certification status from the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons dental anesthesia assistant national certification, or a board-approved competency examination, AND
Hold current and valid certification for health care provider basic life support, or advanced cardiac life support or pediatric advanced life support, AND
Provide a copy of a valid North Dakota general anesthesia, deep sedation, or moderate sedation permit of the dentist where the assistant will be performing anesthesia assistant services, AND
Apply to the North Dakota Board of Dental Examiners for a Class I anesthesia assisting permit.

To earn a Class II anesthesia assistant permit, a Dental Anesthesia Assistant must:

Complete all requirements for a Class I anesthesia assistant permit AND
Complete training in intravenous access or phlebotomy that includes live experience starting and maintaining intravenous lines, AND
Apply to the North Dakota Board of Dental Examiners for a Class II anesthesia assisting permit.

Note: Individuals authorized by other North Dakota licensing boards and whose scope of practice encompasses the duties of a dental anesthesia assistant are not required to obtain this anesthesia permit from the board to carry out these duties.

Registered Dental Assistant with Permit in Administering Nitrous Oxide

To earn a permit to administer nitrous oxide analgesia under the indirect supervision of a dentist, a Registered Dental Assistant must:

1a. Complete a twelve-hour, board-approved course of training or course provided by a program accredited by an accrediting body recognized by the U.S. Department of Education within thirteen months prior to application OR

1b. Complete a twelve-hour, board-approved course of training or course provided by a program accredited by an accrediting body recognized by the U.S. Department of Education more than thirteen months prior to application, have legally administered nitrous oxide inhalation analgesia for a period of time during the three years prior to application, and provide written documentation from an employing or supervising dentist attesting to current clinical proficiency to administer nitrous oxide inhalation analgesia. AND

2. Hold current and valid certification in basic life support by the American Heart Association for the health care provider, or an equivalent program approved by the board.

Note: Before authorizing a registered dental assistant to administer nitrous oxide inhalation analgesia, the dentist must have provided and documented training in the proper and safe operation of the nitrous oxide inhalation analgesia equipment.

Basic Qualified Personnel

Basic Qualified Personnel must be trained directly via an employer/dentist, via a planned sequence of instruction in an educational institution or via in-office training.

To monitor nitrous oxide-oxygen minimal sedation, Basic Qualified Personnel must:

1. Be at least 18 years of age, AND

2. Have completed an accepted basic life-support training course and remains current at all times when monitoring nitrous oxide/oxygen, AND

3. Have successfully completed a six-hour course in nitrous oxide/oxygen monitoring from an Ohio State Dental Board-approved permanent sponsor, or

3b. Have graduated on or after 1/1/15 from a CODA-accredited dental assisting program that included equivalent training, or

3c. Hold a current credential issued by another state for the monitoring of nitrous oxide/oxygen and received training that was substantially equivalent to the Ohio training requirements, AND

4. Have at least two years of active practice and at least 3,000 hours of experience in the practice of dental assisting.

Note: All dental health care workers in Ohio must show evidence of immunity to or immunization against the hepatitis B virus, unless a waiver has been granted.

Certified Assistant

The Ohio State Dental Board recognizes the following three dental assisting certifications:

1. DANB Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) certification, or

2. Certified Ohio Dental Assistant certification administered by the Ohio Commission on Dental Assistant Certification (CODA), or

3. Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) certification administered by the American Medical Technologists (AMT)

Current holders of either of these certifications are considered Certified Assistants.

Current Certified Assistants may qualify to perform placement of pit and fissure sealants and to earn a state certificate in coronal polishing by meeting additional requirements.

Coronal Polishing: In order to receive a certificate from the Ohio State Dental Board permitting the dental assistant to perform coronal polishing procedures, a current Certified Assistant** must:

1. Successfully complete an Ohio Board-approved training program in coronal polishing, AND

2a. Successfully pass standardized testing immediately following successful completion of a skills assessment component of an approved training program, or 2b. Pass DANB’s Coronal Polishing (CP) exam, AND

3. Apply to the Ohio State Dental Board for certification to perform coronal polishing.

**Please note: Holders of the Ohio coronal polishing certificate must maintain DANB CDA certification, certification through CODA, or Registered Dental Assistant certification through AMT.

Pit and Fissure Sealants:

1. Successfully complete a course containing a minimum of two hours of didactic instruction and six hours of clinical instruction, AND

2. The supervising dentist must observe the assistant successfully apply at least six sealants.

NOTE: Certified Assistants may perform specified functions when the supervising dentist is not physically present (for not more than 15 consecutive business days), subject to the conditions listed below.

NOTE: All dental health care workers in Ohio must show evidence of immunity to or immunization against the hepatitis B virus, unless a waiver has been granted.

Expanded Function Dental / Orthodontic Auxiliary

To perform expanded functions under the direct supervision of a licensed dentist in Ohio, a dental assistant must qualify as an Expanded Function Dental Auxiliary (EFDA). To qualify as an EFDA, one must:

1a. Be an unlicensed dentist who has graduated from an accredited dental college and does not have a dental license under suspension or revocation by the OSDB, OR

1b. Be a dental student who is enrolled in an accredited dental college and is in good standing as a dental student, OR

1c. Be a graduate of an unaccredited dental college located outside the United States, OR

1d. Be a Certified Assistant (see definition and requirements), OR

1e. Be a dental hygienist licensed by the OSBD in good standing, OR

1f. Be a dental hygienist who has graduated from an accredited dental hygiene program and does not have a dental hygiene license under suspension or revocation by the OSBD, AND

2. Complete an Ohio Board-approved EFDA training course that is accredited by either the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) or the Higher Learning Commission (course may require proof of DANB CDA certification for entry), AND

3. Pass the EFDA exam administered by the Commission on Dental Testing in Ohio (CODT) or the Commission on Dental Competency Assessments (CDCA), AND

4. Complete a basic life support (BLS) training course certified by the American Red Cross, American Heart Association or American Safety and Health Institute, AND

5. Apply to the Ohio State Dental Board for registration as an EFDA.

The board may issue a certificate to an applicant if the applicant holds a license or certificate in another state or if the applicant has satisfactory work experience, a government certification, or a private certification as an expanded function dental auxiliary in a state that does not issue that license or certificate.

Note: An EFDA may not perform coronal polishing unless he or she has met the requirements described above Certified Assistants and received a state certificate in coronal polishing from the Ohio State Board of Dentistry.

An EFDA may apply pit and fissure sealants prior to a dentist examining the patient and rendering a diagnosis, if all of the conditions below have been met.

Note: All dental health care workers in Ohio must show evidence of immunity to or immunization against the hepatitis B virus, unless a waiver has been granted.

Conditions for Performing Functions When Dentist Is Not Present

A Certified Assistant or an Expanded Function Dental Auxiliary (EFDA) may perform specified functions when the supervising dentist is not physically present, for not more than 15 consecutive business days, under the following conditions:

1. The Certified Assistant or EFDA has at least 1 year/1,500 hours experience as a dental assistant or EFDA
2. The Certified Assistant or EFDA successfully completes a board-approved course in identification and prevention of potential medical emergencies
3. The supervising dentist has evaluated the skills of the Certified Assistant or EFDA, and made a determination that the Certified Assistant or EFDA is competent to treat patients without the dentist being physically present
4. The supervising dentist has established written protocols or written standing orders for the Certified Assistant or EFDA to follow during and in the absence of an emergency
5. The supervising dentist completed and evaluated a medical and dental history of the patient not more than one year prior to the date that the Certified Assistant or EFDA provides services to the patient, and the supervising dentist determines that the patient is in a medically stable condition
6. The patient is notified, in advance of the appointment for services, that the supervising dentist will be absent from the location and that the Certified Assistant or EFDA cannot diagnose the patient’s dental health care status
7. The Certified Assistant or EFDA is employed by, or under contract with, the supervising dentist, a government entity that employs the dental assistant to provide services in a public school or in connection with other programs the government entity administers, or a dentist licensed under this chapter who is one of the following:
(i) The employer of the supervising dentist

(ii) A shareholder in a professional association formed under Chapter 1785. of the Revised Code of which the supervising dentist is a shareholder

(iii) A member or manager of a limited liability company formed under Chapter 1705. of the Revised Code of which the supervising dentist is a member or manager

(iv) A shareholder in a corporation formed under division (B) of section 1701.03 of the Revised Code of which the supervising dentist is a shareholder

(v) A partner or employee of a partnership or a limited liability partnership formed under Chapter 1775. or 1776. of the Revised Code of which the supervising dentist is a partner or employee

A Certified Assistant or an Expanded Function Dental Auxiliary (EFDA), may perform application of pit and fissure sealants prior to the dentist examining the patient and rendering a diagnosis under the following conditions:

8. All of the conditions listed above, with the exception of item 5

9. The Certified Assistant or EFDA is providing the service as part of a program operated through any of the following: a school district board of education or the governing board of an educational service center; the board of health of a city or general health district or the authority having the duties of a board of health; a national, state, district, or local dental association; or any other public or private entity recognized by the state dental board

10. The supervising dentist for the program is employed by or a volunteer for, and the patients are referred by, the entity through which the program is operated and is available for consultation by telephone, videoconferencing, or other means of electronic communication

11. The application of sealants is limited to erupted permanent posterior teeth without suspicion of dentinal cavitation

12. For minor patients, a parent or other person responsible for the patient is notified that a dentist will not be present and that the dental assistant is not trained to diagnose or treat other serious dental concerns that could exist.

Dental Assistant

Every dental assistant in Oklahoma must obtain a Dental Assistant permit from the Board of Dentistry within 30 days of beginning employment. To obtain a permit, one must:

1. Submit a completed application form and the required fee to the Oklahoma Board of Dentistry AND

2. Pass a background check with criteria established by the OBD.

Prior to receiving a permit, the dental assistant must work under the dentist’ s direct visual supervision at all times.

Beginning January 1, 2020, every dental assistant receiving a permit shall complete an infection control course approved by the OBD within one year of the date of receipt of permit. Dental assistants holding permits prior to January 1, 2020 must complete an infection control course approved by the OBD before December 31, 2020.

A dental assistant in Oklahoma may perform basic supportive dental procedures specified by the state dental practice act under the direct supervision of a licensed dentist.

A dental assistant must receive adequate office-based training by the supervisory dentist to ensure that the dental assistant is aware of all requirements and responsibilities of each duty to be performed.

Dental Assistant with Expanded Function Permit

To perform expanded functions in Oklahoma under the direct supervision of a licensed dentist, a dental assistant or oral maxillofacial surgery assistant must obtain a permit from the Oklahoma Board of Dentistry (OBD) for each expanded duty that he or she desires to perform.

Permit applicants must complete expanded duty training in each of the desired functions at a CODA-accredited dental assisting program, or a course approved by the OBD. Available permits are:

Radiation Safety: See “Radiography Requirements”
Coronal: An applicant must successfully complete a Board-approved course in this function, including two hours of didactic education and six hours of a clinical training, including demonstration, in coronal polishing and the application of topical fluoride and desensitizing agents.
Sealants: An applicant must complete a Board-approved course of study in this function, consisting of a minimum of 6 hours to include 1 hour of didactic training and 5 clinical hours of training.
Monitoring and assisting in the administration of nitrous oxide: An applicant must successfully complete a Board-approved course of study in this function, consisting of a minimum of 12 hours. Applicants must have a current BLS certification prior to beginning this course.
Assisting a dentist who holds a parenteral or pediatric anesthesia permit: An applicant must meet the same requirements as those for an oral maxillofacial surgery assistant.
Vaccinations, venipuncture, and phlebotomy: An applicant must complete a Board-approved phlebotomy certification program or course, which must include a minimum of four hours of safe-needle and bloodborne pathogens procedures under the guidelines of the CDC.
Elder care and public health: An applicant must have a minimum of two (2) years of active dental assisting practice.
A dental assistant who holds an out-of-state dental assistant permit with expanded duties may apply for credentialing and reciprocity for a dental assistant permit including any expanded duty by demonstrating that he or she has:

1. Held a valid dental assistant permit in another state for a minimum of two years and is in good standing, AND

2. Held a valid expanded duty in another state for a minimum of one year, AND

3. Completed an educational class for the expanded duty and that the dental assistant been providing this treatment to dental patients while working as a dental assistant in a dental office for a minimum of one year.

Any person having served in the military as a dental assistant shall receive credentialing and reciprocity for expanded functions by providing:

1. Proof of military service in excess of two years with any certifications or training in the expanded function areas, AND

2. Verification from the commanding officer of the medical program or the appropriate supervisor stating that the dental assistant provided the expanded functions on patients in the military dental facility for a minimum of one year within the past five years.

Oral Maxillofacial Surgery Assistant

To perform specified oral maxillofacial surgical assisting functions in Oklahoma, one must hold an Oral Maxillofacial Surgery Assistant permit. To qualify, one must:

1. Pass a background check with criteria established by the Oklahoma Board of Dentistry, AND

2. Be supervised by an oral maxillofacial surgeon with a current Oklahoma license, AND

3. Be employed and complete a minimum of six months of training under the direct supervision of a licensed oral maxillofacial surgeon prior to starting the DAANCE program (see below), AND

4. Complete the Dental Anesthesia Assistant National Certification Examination (DAANCE) program provided by the American Association of Oral Maxillofacial Surgeons (AAOMS), AND

5. Hold valid BLS certification, AND

6. Complete a standardized course approved by the OBD including a minimum of four hours of didactic training that includes the required content, AND

7. Complete an infection control course approved by the Board, AND

8. Meet any other requirements established by the OBD, AND

9. Apply to the OBD for an Oral Maxillofacial Surgery Assistant permit.

An oral maxillofacial surgery assistant permit shall be considered a temporary training permit until all of the training requirements have been completed and
approved by the OBD. A temporary training permit shall not be extended beyond two years.

Note: The OBD’s anesthesia committee may make a recommendation to the OBD for an oral maxillofacial surgery assistant holding a temporary training permit to substitute training received from another state university, dental school or technical training institute or training acquired in a surgery center or hospital while working under the authority of a licensed physician, to qualify as a partial substitute for the requirements to attain an oral maxillofacial surgery assistant permit.

Dental Assistant

A dental assistant in Oregon may perform basic supportive dental procedures specified by the state dental practice act under the direct or indirect supervision of a licensed dentist.

There are no education or training requirements for this level of dental assisting.

Expanded Function Dental Assistant (EFDA)

To perform expanded functions in Oregon under the supervision of a licensed dentist, a dental assistant must earn an Oregon Expanded Function Dental Assistant (EFDA) certificate. To qualify, one must:

Pathway I:
1. Hold an Oregon Certificate of Radiologic Proficiency (see requirements), AND

2. Successfully complete a CODA-accredited dental assisting program, AND

3. Apply for the Oregon EFDA certificate (administered by DANB).

Pathway II:
1. Hold an Oregon Certificate of Radiologic Proficiency (see requirements), AND

2. Pass the national DANB Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) exam, AND

3. Pass the Oregon Expanded Functions General Dental Assisting exam (administered by DANB), AND

4. Provide endorsement from an Oregon licensed dentist stating that the applicant has completed clinical requirements within six months of completion, AND

5. Apply for the Oregon EFDA certificate (administered by DANB).

Pathway III:
1. Hold an Oregon Certificate of Radiologic Proficiency (see requirements), AND

2. Pass the DANB Infection Control (ICE) exam, AND

3. Pass the Oregon Expanded Functions General Dental Assisting exam, AND

4. Provide endorsement from an Oregon licensed dentist stating that the applicant has completed clinical requirements, AND

5. Apply for the Oregon EFDA certificate (administered by DANB).

Note: The Oregon Board of Dentistry discontinued the administration of the Oregon Basic (ORB) exam in 2024. Since 1/5/2024, DANB no longer accepts applications for the ORB exam, and administration of the ORB exam ceased as of 6/1/2024. To meet the Pathway III eligibility requirements for the EFDA, EFODA, and EFPDA certificates, candidates are instead required to pass DANB’s Infection Control (ICE) exam. Candidates who passed the ORB prior to its discontinuation are still able to use their ORB result to qualify for an Oregon expanded function certificate.

Pathway IV:
1. Be certified in another state that has training and certification requirements substantially similar to Oregon’s requirements or obtain verification from a licensed dentist of having been employed (in a state other than Oregon) for at least 1,000 hours in the past two years as a dental assistant performing expanded functions, AND

2. Apply for the Oregon EFDA certificate (administered by DANB).

To apply for pathway IV, contact DANB to request an application.

Note: An EFDA may apply pit and fissure sealants and temporary soft relines to full dentures upon successful completion of a course of instruction (in the desired expanded function) in a CODA-accredited program or other course of instruction approved by the Oregon Board of Dentistry.

Note: The Oregon state dental practice act specifies that, in addition to the exams, courses and programs listed on this page, a dental assistant may complete any successor or otherwise Board-approved exams, courses or programs. For more information, please contact the Oregon Board of Dentistry at www.oregon.gov/dentistry(opens in a new window).

Expanded Function Dental Assistant (EFDA) with Restorative Functions Certificate

To perform placement and finishing of direct restorations, except gold foil, under the indirect supervision of a dentist, subject to OBD regulations, an EFDA must hold a Restorative Functions certificate. To qualify, an EFDA must (effective 1/1/2025):

1a. Complete an OBD-approved restorative functions curriculum from a CODA-accredited program, AND

1b. Pass the CDCA-WREB CITA’s Dental Hygiene Restorative Exam (or other exam approved by the OBD) within the five years preceding application, AND

1c. Apply for the Oregon Restorative Functions certificate (administered by DANB), OR

2a. If the applicant passed the CDCA-WREB CITA’s Dental Hygiene Restorative Exam or other OBD-approved exam more than five years before application, submit verification from another state or jurisdiction where the applicant is legally authorized to perform restorative functions and verification from the supervising dentist of successful completion of at least 25 restorative procedures within the immediate five years preceding application, AND

2b. Apply for the Oregon Restorative Functions certificate (administered by DANB.)

Note: The Oregon state dental practice act specifies that, in addition to the exams, courses and programs listed on this page, a dental assistant may complete any successor or otherwise Board-approved exams, courses or programs. For more information, please contact the Oregon Board of Dentistry at www.oregon.gov/dentistry(opens in a new window).

Expanded Function Dental Assistant (EFDA) with Local Anesthesia Functions Certificate

An Expanded Function Dental Assistant (EFDA) who holds a Local Anesthesia Functions Certificate (LAFC) (download application(opens in a new window), online application) may administer local anesthetic agents and local anesthetic reversal agents under the indirect supervision of a licensed dentist. Local anesthetic reversal agents shall not be used on children less Allowable than 6 years of age or weighing less than 33 pounds.

To qualify, an EFDA must (effective 1/1/2025) successfully complete a Board approved curriculum from a program accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of the American Dental Association or other course of instruction approved by the Board.

Expanded Function Orthodontic Dental Assistant (EFODA)

To perform expanded orthodontic functions in Oregon under the supervision of a licensed dentist, a dental assistant must earn status as an Expanded Function Orthodontic Dental Assistant (EFODA). To qualify, one must successfully complete all of the following requirements in ONE of the following four pathways:

Pathway I:
1. Complete a course of instruction in a CODA-accredited dental assisting program, AND

2. Apply for Oregon EFODA certification (administered by DANB).

Pathway II:
1. Pass the national DANB Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) exam or Certified Orthodontic Assistant (COA) exam , AND

2. Pass the Oregon Expanded Functions Orthodontic Assisting (ORXO) exam (administered by DANB), AND

3. Provide endorsement from an Oregon licensed dentist stating that the applicant has successfully completed the clinical requirements, AND

4. Apply for the Oregon EFODA certificate (administered by DANB).

Pathway III:
1. Pass the DANB Infection Control (ICE) exam, AND

2. Pass the Oregon Expanded Functions Orthodontic Assisting (ORXO) exam (administered by DANB), AND

3. Provide endorsement from an Oregon licensed dentist stating that the applicant has successfully completed the clinical requirements, AND

4. Apply for the Oregon EFODA certificate (administered by DANB).

Note: The Oregon Board of Dentistry discontinued the administration of the Oregon Basic (ORB) exam in 2024. Since 1/5/2024, DANB no longer accepts applications for the ORB exam, and administration of the ORB exam ceased as of 6/1/2024. To meet the Pathway III eligibility requirements for the EFDA, EFODA, and EFPDA certificates, candidates are instead required to pass DANB’s Infection Control (ICE) exam. Candidates who passed the ORB prior to its discontinuation are still able to use their ORB result to qualify for an Oregon expanded function certificate.

Pathway IV:
1. Be certified in another state that has training and certification requirements substantially similar to Oregon’s requirements or obtain verification from a licensed dentist of having been employed (in a state other than Oregon) for at least 1,000 hours in the past two years as a dental assistant performing expanded orthodontic functions, AND

2. Apply for the Oregon EFODA certificate (administered by DANB).

Note: The Oregon state dental practice act specifies that, in addition to the exams, courses and programs listed on this page, a dental assistant may complete any successor or otherwise Board-approved exams, courses or programs. For more information, please contact the Oregon Board of Dentistry at www.oregon.gov/dentistry(opens in a new window).

Expanded Function Preventive Dental Assistant (EFPDA)

To perform expanded preventive functions in Oregon under the supervision of a licensed dentist, a dental assistant must earn an Oregon Expanded Function Preventive Dental Assistant (EFPDA) certificate. To qualify, one must:

Pathway I:
1. Hold an Oregon Certificate of Radiologic Proficiency (see requirements), AND

2. Successfully complete a course of instruction in a program accredited by CODA, AND

3. Apply for the Oregon EFPDA certificate (administered by DANB).

Pathway II:
1. Hold an Oregon Certificate of Radiologic Proficiency (see requirements), AND

2. Pass the DANB Infection Control (ICE) exam, AND

3. Pass one of the following exams:

a. DANB Coronal Polishing (CP) exam, OR

b. DANB Certified Preventive Functions Dental Assistant (CPFDA) exam(opens in a new window), OR

c. Oregon Expanded Functions General Dental Assisting exam (administered by DANB), AND

4. Provide endorsement from a dentist licensed in Oregon stating that the applicant has completed clinical requirements within six months of completion, AND

5. Apply for the Oregon EFPDA certificate (administered by DANB).

Note: The Oregon Board of Dentistry discontinued the administration of the Oregon Basic (ORB) exam in 2024. Since 1/5/2024, DANB no longer accepts applications for the ORB exam, and administration of the ORB exam ceased as of 6/1/2024. To meet the Pathway III eligibility requirements for the EFDA, EFODA, and EFPDA certificates, candidates are instead required to pass DANB’s Infection Control (ICE) exam. Candidates who passed the ORB prior to its discontinuation are still able to use their ORB result to qualify for an Oregon expanded function certificate.

Pathway III:
1. Be certified in another state with requirements similar to Oregon’s, OR Obtain verification from a licensed dentist of having been employed (outside the state of Oregon) for at least 1,000 hours in the past two years as a dental assistant performing the permitted expanded preventive functions, AND

2. Apply for the Oregon EFPDA certificate (administered by DANB).

Note: The Oregon state dental practice act specifies that, in addition to the exams, courses and programs listed on this page, a dental assistant may complete any successor or otherwise Board-approved exams, courses or programs. For more information, please contact the Oregon Board of Dentistry at www.oregon.gov/dentistry(opens in a new window).

Anesthesia Monitor

To perform the duties of an Anesthesia Monitor, a dental assistant must:

1. Receive training in monitoring patients under sedation and be capable of assisting with procedures, problems and emergency incidents that may occur as a result of the sedation or secondary to an unexpected medical complication, AND

2. Maintain current certification in BLS for Healthcare Providers Basic Life Support (BLS)/Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) training or equivalent, AND

3. Receive training in monitoring vital signs, AND

4. Be competent in the use of monitoring and emergency equipment appropriate for the level of sedation utilized

Anesthesia Dental Assistant

A dental assistant in Oregon must hold state certification as an Anesthesia Dental Assistant in order to perform specified anesthesia assisting functions. To qualify, one must:

1. Hold a current Health Care Provider BLS certification, AND

2a. Successfully complete the Dental Anesthesia Assistant National Certification Exam (DAANCE) conducted by the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, OR

2b. Successfully complete the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Assistants Course conducted by the California Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, OR

2c. Have passed the DANB Certified Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Assistant (COMSA) exam (prior to the discontinuation of the COMSA exam in 2000), OR

2d. The Resuscitation Group – Anesthesia Dental Assistant course, OR

2e. Other course approved by the Oregon Board of Dentistry, AND

3. Apply for the Oregon Anesthesia Dental Assistant certificate (administered by DANB)

Note: The Oregon state dental practice act specifies that, in addition to the exams, courses and programs listed on this page, a dental assistant may complete any successor or otherwise Board-approved exams, courses or programs. For more information, please contact the Oregon Board of Dentistry at (opens in a new window)www.oregon.gov/dentistry(opens in a new window).

Anesthesia Dental Assistant with IV Therapy Certificate

To initiate intravenous (IV) lines in Oregon for a patient being prepared for IV medications, sedation or general anesthesia or to perform a phlebotomy blood draw under the indirect supervision of a dentist holding the appropriate anesthesia permit, an Anesthesia Dental Assistant must earn an additional endorsement. To qualify, an Anesthesia Dental Assistant must:

1. Complete a course in intravenous access or phlebotomy approved by the OBD, AND

2. Apply for the Oregon Anesthesia Dental Assistant with IV Therapy certificate (administered by DANB)

Expanded Functions Dental / Orthodontic Assistant (EFDA)

To perform expanded functions in Pennsylvania under the direct supervision of a licensed dentist, a dental assistant must hold a state certification as an Expanded Function Dental Assistant (EFDA) issued by the Pennsylvania State Board of Dentistry.

To obtain this state certification, one must:

1a. Graduate from a board-approved expanded function dental assisting program at a two-year college or institution accredited by an accrediting agency approved by the U.S. Dept. of Education Council on Postsecondary Accreditation which offers an associate degree, OR

1b. Graduate from a CODA-accredited dental hygiene school, which requires the successful completion of at least 75 hours of clinical and didactic instruction in restorative functions, OR

1c. Complete a Board-approved EFDA program, which offers a certificate or diploma, consisting of at least 200 hours of clinical and didactic instruction from dental assisting program accredited either by CODA or an accrediting agency approved by the U.S. Dept. of Education Council on Postsecondary Accreditation whose expanded function educational standards are approved by the Board, AND

2. Apply for state certification in expanded functions to the Pennsylvania State Board of Dentistry, AND

3. Pass a Pennsylvania Board-acceptable written exam, AND

4. Complete 3 hours of training in child abuse recognition and reporting requirements as approved by the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services.

Notes: Expanded function dental assistants who are currently licensed or certified in another state or territory, or in Canada, may be granted licensure or certification in Pennsylvania if their credentials meet the requirements of the Pennsylvania dental practice act.

Dental Assistant

A dental assistant in Rhode Island may perform basic supportive dental procedures specified by the state dental practice act under the supervision of a licensed dentist.

All dental assistants practicing in a dental setting shall hold a current certificate of completion. Basic Life Support (BLS) for the Healthcare Provider that includes a hands-on skill component and conforms to the current American Heart Association Guidelines Update for Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and Emergency Cardiovascular Care (ECC) offered by any accredited agency approved by the Board.

Every dental assistant in Rhode Island must receive a minimum of one (1) hour per year of training in the CDC Infection Control Guidelines.

DANB-Certified Dental Assistant

To perform expanded functions in Rhode Island under the direct supervision of a licensed dentist, a dental assistant must be a DANB-Certified assistant, holding one of the following DANB national certifications: Certified Dental Assistant (CDA), Certified Orthodontic Assistant (COA), Certified Preventive Functions Dental Assistants (CPFDA), Certified Restorative Functions Dental Assistants (CRFDA), Certified Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Assistant (COMSA) or Certified Dental Practice Management Administrator (CDPMA).

In Rhode Island, DANB-Certified assistants may perform the expanded functions listed in the state dental practice act provided they have graduated from a dental assisting education program that incorporated academic training in these procedures or completed academic clinical training to clinical competence.

Note: Individuals who have passed a DANB certification exam but have not renewed are no longer DANB-Certified assistants.

DAANCE Certified Maxillofacial Surgery Assistant

To perform specified maxillofacial surgery assisting functions, an assistant must be licensed by the Rhode Island Board of Examiners in Dentistry as a DAANCE-Certified Maxillofacial Surgery Assistant. To qualify for licensure, one must:

1. Be of good moral character; AND

2. Be eighteen (18) years of age or over; AND

3. Successfully complete an approved program for Dental Anesthesia Assistants National Certification Examination (DAANCE) accredited by the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons or its designated agency; AND

4. Be certified as a dental anesthesia assistant by the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons or its designated agency; AND

5. Hold a current certificate of completion of an approved course in Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS); AND

6. Be in good standing in each state in which he/she holds a license; AND

7. Apply to the Rhode Island Board of Examiners in Dentistry for licensure.

Dental / Orthodontic Assistant

A dental assistant in South Carolina may perform basic supportive dental procedures specified by the state dental practice act under the direct supervision of a licensed dentist.

There are no initial education or training requirements for this level of dental assisting. It is the responsibility of all dentists to ensure that their auxiliary staff who may be exposed to blood or other body fluids require and provide two (2) hours biennially of continuing education on sterilization and infection control and maintain records of such training.

In settings where sedation is administered, all dental staff who provide direct, hands-on patient care must be certified in CPR at the basic life support level by a board-approved training course, received within the last two years. The operating dentist must provide training for staff with hands-on patient care commensurate with the level and mode of sedation administered. This training must be documented and available for inspection by the department upon request.

Expanded Duty Dental / Orthodontic Assistant

To perform expanded functions under the direct supervision of a licensed dentist in the state of South Carolina, a dental assistant must earn status as an Expanded Duty Dental Assistant (EDDA). To qualify, one must:

1. Graduate from a CODA-accredited dental assisting program, OR

2. Complete two years of continuous full-time employment as a chairside dental assistant.

Note: In order to monitor nitrous oxide conscious sedation (analgesia), EDDAs must complete a course approved by the South Carolina Board of Dentistry, successfully complete the state board examination, submit proof of Board-approved CPR certification within the three years preceding application, and apply for state certification from the South Carolina Board of Dentistry.

Dental Assistant

There are no training requirements for this level of dental assisting.

Registered Dental Assistant

To perform expanded functions under the direct supervision of a licensed dentist in South Dakota, a dental assistant must be registered as a Registered Dental Assistant. To qualify, one must:

I. Be at least 18 years of age

AND

II. Hold a current American Heart Association Healthcare Provider, American Red Cross Professional Rescuer or board-approved equivalent CPR certification

AND

III. a. Graduate from a CODA-accredited dental assisting program, OR

b. Hold current national DANB Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) certification, OR

c. Complete a dental assisting education approved program approved by the South Dakota State Board of Dentistry (SDSBD) resulting in a registered dental assistant certificate of competency

AND

IV. If applicant holds or has held registration to perform expanded functions in other states, submit a certified letter verifying registration number and status from the board of dentistry in each state where the applicant has been registered

AND

V. Apply to the SDSBD for registration as a Registered Dental Assistant, pay a fee, and submit required proof of meeting the above requirements

Applicants who have completed a CODA-accredited dental assisting program or obtained a certificate of competency must apply within five years of completion of the program or, if the program was completed more than five years prior to application, must have legally provided expanded functions within five years preceding application. Written documentation verifying the current clinical proficiency of the applicant to perform expanded functions may be required from a dentist who has employed or supervised the applicant within the five years prior to application.

Registered Dental Assistant or Dental Assistant with training in starting intravenous lines

Registered Dental Assistants and dental assistants may start an intravenous line if they have taken a board-approved anesthesia assisting course and received intravenous line training.

Registered Dental Assistant or Dental Assistant with a permit to monitor patients under general anesthesia, deep sedation or moderate sedation

Registered Dental Assistants and dental assistants may apply for a permit to monitor patients under general anesthesia, deep sedation or moderate sedation. To qualify, an assistant must:

1. Be certified in administering basic life support by the American Heart Association for the Healthcare Provider or the American Red Cross for the Professional Rescuer program AND

2a. Have completed a SDSBD-approved educational course in anesthetic assisting of at least eight hours within 13 months of application OR

2b. Have completed a SDSBD-approved educational course in anesthetic assisting (min. 8 hours) more than 13 months prior to application and have legally monitored patients receiving analgesic or anesthetic agents for a period of time during the 2 years preceding application and provide written documentation from an employing/supervising dentist attesting to clinical proficiency.

Registered Dental Assistant or Dental Assistant qualified in injection of medication

A dentist holding a permit to administer general anesthesia/deep sedation or moderate sedation may authorize a Registered Dental Assistant or dental assistant, under the personal and direct visual supervision of the dentist and upon the dentist’s verbal command, to inject medication that the supervising dentist has drawn up through an intravenous (IV) site if the following requirements have been met:

1. The assistant holds a permit to monitor patients under general anesthesia, deep sedation or moderate sedation, AND

2. The assistant has passed the Dental Anesthesia Assistant National Certification Examination (DAANCE) administered by the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (AAOMS) and is currently DAANCE-certified, AND

3. The supervising dentist holds a permit to administer general anesthesia and deep sedation or moderate sedation.

Registered Dental Assistant with permit to administer nitrous oxide inhalation analgesia

A Registered Dental Assistant may apply for a permit to administer nitrous oxide sedation and inhalation analgesia under the direct supervision of a dentist. To qualify, a Registered Dental Assistant must:

1. Be certified in administering basic life support by the American Heart Association for the Healthcare Provider or the American Red Cross for the Professional Rescuer program, AND

2a. Have completed an SDSBD-approved educational course meeting specified requirements within 13 months of application, OR

2b. Have completed an SDSBD-approved educational course more than 13 months prior to application and have legally administered nitrous oxide sedation and inhalation analgesia for a period of time during the 3 years preceding application and provide written documentation from an employing/supervising dentist attesting to clinical proficiency.

Practical Dental / Orthodontic Assistant

A Practical Dental Assistant is an auxiliary employee of a licensed dentist who is receiving practical chairside dental assisting training from a licensed dentist or is a dental student in an educational program accredited by CODA.

Registered Dental / Orthodontic Assistant

Registered Dental Assistants in Tennessee may perform the procedures listed for this level in the state dental practice act. To register as an RDA, one must:

1. Have a high school diploma or GED certificate, AND

2. Be at least 18 years of age, AND

3. Successfully complete BLS for Healthcare Providers, CPR/AED for Professional Rescuers, or equivalent course, AND

4. Successfully complete the Tennessee Board of Dentistry Ethics and Jurisprudence exam, AND

5. Apply for registration to the Tennessee Board of Dentistry

Registered Dental / Orthodontic Assistant (RDA) Qualified to Perform Expanded Functions

To perform expanded functions in Tennessee, Registered Dental Assistants (RDAs) must earn state certification by completing the following requirements for each of the desired expanded functions:

Perform coronal polishing procedures:
1. Successfully complete a Tennessee Board-approved coronal polishing course, including both a written and clinical exam (to qualify for the course, an individual must be an RDA in Tennessee), or complete a CODA-accredited dental assisting program that included coronal polishing in the curriculum, AND

2. Receive a certificate in coronal polishing from the Tennessee Board of Dentistry.

Apply sealants:
1. Successfully complete a Tennessee Board-approved course in sealant application (to qualify, one must be a current RDA), or be enrolled in a CODA- accredited or Tennessee Board-approved program which offers such a course, AND

2. Receive a certificate in sealant application from the Tennessee Board of Dentistry.

Monitor nitrous oxide:
1. Successfully complete a Tennessee Board-approved nitrous oxide monitoring course (to qualify, one must be a current RDA), or be enrolled in a CODA-accredited or Tennessee Board-approved program which offers such a course as part of its curriculum, AND

2. Receive a certificate in monitoring nitrous oxide from the Tennessee Board of Dentistry.

Perform restorative and/or prosthetic functions:
1. Have a minimum of two years of continuous, full-time registered dental assisting employment in the three years prior to enrolling in course, AND

2. Complete a Tennessee Board-approved certification course, AND

3. Receive a certificate in restorative and/or prosthetic functions from the Tennessee Board of Dentistry.

Expose dental radiographs:
See Radiography Requirements

Note: RDAs who have successfully completed a comparable training program in expanded functions in another state may be eligible to apply directly to the Tennessee Board of Dentistry for an expanded functions certificate without additional training. The expanded functions course must have been approved by the dental board in the other state and the Tennessee Board of Dentistry consultant must determine that the course is equivalent to the Tennessee Board- approved course. The information regarding content of the course and proof of completion must be sent directly from the course provider to the Board’s administrative office. If a certification or permit was issued by the other state, verification of the certificate or permit must be received directly from the other board. For more information, contact the Tennessee Board of Dentistry.

Dental / Orthodontic Assistant

There are no training requirements for this level of dental assisting.

A dental assistant in the state of Texas may perform basic supportive dental procedures specified by the state dental practice act under the direct supervision of a licensed dentist.

Registered Dental / Orthodontic Assistant

A dental assistant in the state of Texas can earn status as a Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) by formally registering with the Texas State Board of Dental Examiners (TSBDE). To qualify, one must:

1. Graduate from an accredited high school or hold a GED, AND

2. Successfully complete a current hands-on course in basic life support, AND

3a. Successfully complete a mandatory course of training specified by the TSBDE that includes procedures for positioning and exposing dental x-rays, jurisprudence, and infection control, or

3b. Earn the national DANB CDA certification and complete the Texas Jurisprudence Assessment, AND

4. Complete a course in human trafficking prevention approved by the executive commissioner of the Texas Health and Human Services Commission AND

5. Apply to the TSBDE for registration AND

6. Submit fingerprints for the retrieval of criminal record information.

To qualify to monitor the administration of nitrous oxide, an RDA must:

1. Complete a minimum of 8 hours of didactic education and testing in monitoring the administration of nitrous oxide taken through a CODA-accredited dental, dental hygiene or dental assisting program approved by the Texas State Board of Dental Examiners (TSBDE) AND

2. Complete a current course in Basic Life Support, AND

3. Apply to the TSBDE for a nitrous oxide monitoring designation

Dental / Orthodontic Assistant Qualified to Perform Expanded Functions

To perform expanded functions under the general or direct supervision of a licensed dentist in Texas, a dental assistant must successfully complete the following requirements:

Perform pit and fissure sealant procedures:
1. Work at least two years as a dental assistant, AND

2. Complete a current course in basic life support, AND

3. Complete a minimum of eight hours of Texas Board-approved clinical and didactic education in pit and fissure sealants taken through a CODA-accredited dental, dental hygiene, or dental assistant program and approved by the TSBDE

Perform coronal polishing procedures:
1a. Graduate from a CODA-accredited dental assisting program that includes clinical and didactic education in coronal polishing, OR

1b. Complete a minimum of eight hours of clinical and didactic education in coronal polishing taken through a dental school, dental hygiene school, or dental assisting program accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA). A dental assistant must have at least one-year experience as a dental assistant prior to applying to a CODA program.

Dental / Orthodontic Assistant

A dental assistant in the state of Utah may perform basic supportive dental procedures under the supervision of a licensed dentist.

All dental assistants must have current CPR or Basic Cardiac Life Support (BCLS) certification.

Traditional Dental / Orthodontic Assistant

Dental Assistants in Vermont can earn status as a Traditional Dental Assistant by becoming employed as a Traditional Dental Assistant in a dental office and registering with the Vermont Board of Dental Examiners within 30 days of being hired.

All dental assistants shall complete emergency office procedures training within six months of their date of hire.

DANB Certified Dental / Orthodontic Assistant (CDA) with state certification

Dental assistants who hold the national DANB Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) certification can also earn Vermont state certification. To qualify, one must:

1. Hold a current national DANB CDA certification, AND

2. Be employed by a Vermont-licensed dentist, AND

3. Apply to the Vermont Board of Dental Examiners for registration.

Expanded Function Dental / Orthodontic Assistant (EFDA)

To perform expanded functions in Vermont under the direct supervision of a licensed dentist, a dental assistant must earn status as an Expanded Function Dental Assistant. To qualify, one must:

1a. Hold a current national DANB CDA certification, AND

1b. Be employed by a Vermont-licensed dentist, OR

2. Be a licensed dental hygienist, AND

3. Successfully complete a formal program in each of the desired expanded functions at a CODA-accredited program of dental assisting, AND

4. Apply to the Vermont Board of Dental Examiners for registration.

Dental / Orthodontic Assistant I

There are no education or training requirements for this level of dental assisting.

A dental assistant (DA I or DA II) in Virginia who assists in the administration and monitoring of any form of minimal sedation, conscious/moderate sedation, deep sedation or general anesthesia must meet one of the following requirements:

1. Training and current certification in basic resuscitation techniques with hands­ on airway training for health care providers, such as Basic Cardiac Life Support for Health Professionals or a clinically ­oriented course devoted primarily to responding to clinical emergencies offered by an approved provider of continuing education, OR

2. Current certification as a certified anesthesia assistant by the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (AAOMS) or the American Dental Society of Anesthesiology (ADSA).

Dental / Orthodontic Assistant II

To qualify as a dental assistant II (DA II) by education, one must:

1. Hold current certification as a DANB Certified Dental Assistant (CDA), AND

2. Successfully complete board-approved expanded functions requirements from a CODA-accredited program, AND

3. Apply to the Virginia Board of Dentistry for registration.

To qualify for registration as a DA II by endorsement, one must:

1. Hold current DANB CDA certification or certification from another national credentialing organization recognized by the American Dental Association, AND
2. Be currently authorized to perform expanded duties in a jurisdiction of the United States, AND
3. Hold a credential, registration, or certificate from another state with qualifications substantially equivalent to the Virginia DA II requirements
or document experience in the Virginia DA II functions for at least 24 of the 48 months preceding application, AND
4. Be certified to be in good standing in each U.S. jurisdiction where currently or formerly credentialed, AND
5. Not have committed any prohibited act, AND
6. Apply to the Virginia Board of Dentistry for registration by endorsement

All DA II applicants must attest that they have read and understood and will remain current with Virginia dental laws and regulations governing the practice of dentistry and dental assisting. A renewing Dental Assistant II must show proof of current DANB CDA certification and successful completion of training in basic CPR.

18VAC60-20-61 (B)(2), (3) and (4) of the Regulations Governing Dental Practice specifies four modules of laboratory training, clinical experience and examination that may be completed in order to qualify for registration as a dental assistant II. The board interprets these provisions to permit someone to complete one or more of the modules to qualify for registration. An applicant does not have to complete all four modules. However, the educational institution offering the dental assistant II program has the discretion to decide how to structure its program.

A dental assistant (DA I or DA II) in Virginia who assists in the administration and monitoring of any form of minimal sedation, moderate sedation, deep sedation or general anesthesia must meet one of the following requirements:

(3) Training and current certification in basic resuscitation techniques with hands-on airway training for health care providers, such as Basic Cardiac Life Support for Health Professionals or a clinically-oriented course devoted primarily to responding to clinical emergencies offered by an approved provider of continuing education OR

(4) Current certification as a certified anesthesia assistant by the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (AAOMS) or the American Dental Society of Anesthesiology (ADSA).

Registered Dental Assistant

Every dental assistant in the state of Washington must be registered. To be eligible for registration as a dental assistant, one must:

Provide a completed application on forms provided by the:

• Washington State Dental Quality Assurance Commission (DQAC), AND
• Pay applicable fees, AND
• Provide any other information determined by the Washington State Dental Quality Assurance Commission.

The dental assistant registration must be renewed annually on or before the dental assistant’s birthday.

A registered dental assistant must hold a current and valid health care provider basic life support (BLS) certification.

A registered dental assistant in the state of Washington may earn an endorsement in sealant/fluoride varnish solely for the purpose of treating children in school-based and school-linked programs. Applicants must:

• Have had 200 hours of employment by a Washington State-licensed dentist that has included theoretical and clinical training in the application of dental sealants and fluoride varnish treatments, verified by a declaration provided by the licensed dentist who provided the training, AND
• Provide proof of completion of a training program meeting Washington state requirements, AND
• Submit an application and fee.

Note: Registered dental assistants monitoring patients receiving deep sedation or general anesthesia must receive a minimum of 14 hours of documented training in a course specifically designed to include instruction and practical experience in the use of equipment.

Note: A volunteer dental assistant is an individual who, without compensation, provides supportive services in a charitable dental clinic.

Note: In Washington, orthodontic procedures such as placing bands, brackets, or orthodontic appliances may only be performed by licensed Expanded Function Dental Auxiliaries (EFDAs) who have completed the required training and exams.

Expanded Function Dental Auxiliary

To become an Expanded Function Dental Auxiliary (EFDA) in Washington, a dental assistant must:

1. Graduate from a CODA-accredited dental assisting program, or
   • Be DANB CDA certified (after meeting DANB CDA/GC pathway II eligibility requirements, and completing an additional dental assisting review course), AND
2. Complete an EFDA course approved by the Dental Quality Assurance Commission (DQAC), AND
3. Pass the Washington State Restorative Exam (WARE) administered by DANB, AND
   • WARE) is a written exam administered by DANB.
4. Pass the clinical exam* administered by the Western Regional Examining Board (now merged with CDCA-CITA), AND
5. Provide any other information determined by DQAC, AND
6. Apply to DQAC for an EFDA license.

To be eligible for a license as an EFDA without examination, one must:

1. Hold a current license in another state with substantially equivalent licensing standards as determined by DQAC OR
   • Hold a Washington full dental hygiene license and complete a course in taking final impressions affiliated with or provided by a CODA accredited dental assisting program, dental hygiene school or dental school, AND
2. Provide any other information determined by the state, AND
3. Apply to DQAC for an EFDA license

Orthodontic assisting functions fall under the EFDA license and are not permitted under general dental assistant registration.

An EFDA must hold current and valid health care provider basic life support (BLS) certification. An EFDA must complete one hour of current infection prevention standards education annually provided by a qualified individual or organization.

Note: DANB administers the Washington State Dental Hygiene Drug and Law Examination under agreement with the Washington State Department of Health. To obtain an application or for additional information, contact the Washington State Dental Hygiene Program at 360-236-4837 (dental hygiene department).

Dental Anesthesia Assistant

Each applicant for certification as a dental anesthesia assistant must submit to the Washington State Dental Quality Assurance Commission (DQAC):

1. An application, on a form provided by the department, AND

2. An application fee, AND

3. Evidence of completion of one of the following:

a. The “”Dental Anesthesia Assistant National Certification Examination (DAANCE)”” or predecessor program, provided by the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (AAOMS), or

b. The “”Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Assistants Course”” course provided by the California Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (CALAOMS), or

c. Substantially equivalent education and training approved by DQAC, AND

4a. Evidence of completion of training in intravenous access or phlebotomy that includes 8 hours of didactic training and hands on experience starting and maintaining intravenous lines with at least ten successful intravenous starts on a human or simulator/manikin, or

4b. Evidence of completion of substantially equivalent education and training approved by DQAC, AND

5. A current and valid certification for health care provider basic life support (BLS), advanced cardiac life support (ACLS), or pediatric advanced life support (PALS), AND

6. A valid Washington state general anesthesia permit of the oral and maxillofacial surgeon or dental anesthesiologist where the dental anesthesia assistant will be performing his or her services, AND

7. Any other information determined by DQAC

A Dental Anesthesia Assistant must complete one hour of current infection prevention standards education annually provided by a qualified individual or organization, as well as two hours of health equity training every three years.

Note: A certified dental anesthesia assistant shall notify DQAC in writing on a form provided by DQAC of any changes in his or her supervisor. DQAC must be notified of the change prior to the certified dental anesthesia assistant accepting delegation from another supervisor.

Dental Assistant

There are no education or training requirements for this level of dental assisting.

Note: A chairside assistant assisting a dentist holding a permit to administer conscious/moderate sedation or general anesthesia/deep sedation must maintain BLS/CPR certification.

Dental Assistant Qualified in Expanded Duties

To qualify to perform specified restorative and/or orthodontic expanded duties in West Virginia, a dental assistant must:

1. Complete a West Virginia Board of Dentistry (WVBD)-approved course and exam in each of the desired expanded duties, AND

2. Complete required clinical experiences under the observation of the supervising dentist, who attests to the dental assistant’s competent performance of the function, AND

3. Apply to WVBD for a certificate

To qualify to perform visual monitoring of nitrous oxide analgesia units in West Virginia, a dental assistant must:

1. Complete a WVBD-approved course and exam in monitoring nitrous oxide, AND

2. Be currently certified in health care provider CPR through the American Red Cross or the American Heart Association, AND

3. Apply to WVBD for a certificate

To qualify to perform coronal polishing on children under age 21 in West Virginia, a dental assistant must:

1. Complete two years, at least 3,000 hours, of clinical experience in a dental office, as attested to by the supervising dentist, AND

2. Hold the expanded duties certificate issued by the WVBD, AND

3. Complete a WVBD-approved coronal polishing course, AND

4. Complete required clinical experiences under the observation of the supervising dentist, who attests to the dental assistant’s competent performance of the function, AND

5. Apply to WVBD for a certificate

Qualified Monitor

Any individual, including a dental assistant, acting as a Qualified Monitor during sedation procedures must have received training and be competent in the recognition and treatment of medical emergencies, monitoring vital signs, the operation of nitrous oxide delivery systems and the use of the sphygmomanometer and stethoscope AND must meet the following requirements:

For relative analgesia/minimal sedation: Possess a current health care provider BLS/CPR certification (qualified monitor certificate is not required)

For anxiolysis/minimal sedation:

1. Possess a current health care provider BLS/CPR certification, AND

2. Apply to the WVBD for a qualified monitor certificate

For conscious sedation/moderate sedation (limited enteral or comprehensive parenteral) and general anesthesia/deep conscious sedation:

1. Possess a current health care provider BLS/CPR certification, AND

2. Successfully complete an American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (AAOMS) or American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) anesthesia assistants certification program or equivalent, AND

3. Apply to the WVBD for a qualified monitor certificate

In addition to the above requirements for a Qualified Monitor, for all levels of sedation, including relative analgesia/minimal sedation, when monitoring a nitrous oxide unit, a certificate to monitor nitrous oxide must be obtained from the Board, as described above under “Dental Assistant Qualified in Expanded Duties.”

A dentist holding an anesthesia permit must report the names and qualifications of each Qualified Monitor providing services to that permitholder to the WVBD.

Dental / Orthodontic Assistant (Unlicensed Person)

An unlicensed person in Wisconsin may perform basic supportive dental procedures specified by the state dental practice act under the supervision of a licensed dentist.

Any dentist who delegates any remediable dental procedure or function to an unlicensed person must first provide training to or verify competence of the person in the performance of the procedure or function.

Auxiliary personnel in settings where sedation or general anesthesia are administered must be certified in Basic Life Support for the Healthcare Provider.

Expanded Function Dental / Orthodontic Auxiliary

To perform specified expanded functions in Wisconsin, one must obtain state certification as an Expanded Function Dental Auxiliary: To qualify, one must:

I. a. Complete at least 1,000 hours practicing as a dental assistant and hold current DANB Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) certification OR

b. Complete at least 2,000 hours practicing as a dental assistant, as verified by the supervising licensed dentist

AND

II. Successfully complete at least 70 hours of classroom instruction from an accredited program that provides training in practice as an auxiliary

AND

III. Maintain current proficiency in CPR, including the use of an automated external defibrillator, achieved through instruction provided by an approved individual, organization, or institution of higher education

AND

IV. Submit fee and application to the Board for EFDA certification

Note: The Wisconsin Legislature passed a new law during the 2022 legislative session authorizing the creation of an Expanded Function Dental Auxiliary who may perform specified functions. The Wisconsin Dentistry Examining Board has promulgated rules to implement this new law, but permanent rulemaking is not yet completed.

Dental / Orthodontic Assistant

A dental assistant in Wyoming may perform basic supportive dental procedures specified by the state dental practice act under the supervision of a licensed dentist.

Dental assistants may be trained by their employer or by an accredited or WBDE-approved program for dental assistants.

In settings where nitrous oxide anxiolysis, sedation and/or anesthesia are administered, all dental personnel shall be certified in administering Basic Life Support (BLS) for Healthcare Providers. A dentist, operating dentist or sedation/anesthesia permit holder may delegate patient monitoring to qualified dental personnel.

Dental / Orthodontic Assistant Qualified in Placement of Pit and Fissure Sealants

To perform placement of pit and fissure sealants under the direct supervision of a licensed dentist in Wyoming, a dental assistant must:

1a. Complete a Wyoming Board of Dental Examiners-approved pit and fissure sealants course meeting specified didactic and clinical requirements within one year immediately prior to the date of application OR

1b. Complete a CODA-accredited dental hygiene or dental assisting program, AND

2. Submit an application for a Pit and Fissure Sealant Certificate and completed checklist demonstration competency and completion of course to the Wyoming Board of Dental Examiners (WBDE).

The WBDE accepts successful performance on DANB’ s Sealants (SE) exam to meet requirements to earn the Wyoming Pit and Fissure Sealants permit.

Answer: Start by checking your state dental board’s website. Most boards list approved programs and outline the qualifications needed for various levels of dental assisting. You can also look into national providers like Trapezio, which designs its courses with state regulations and national certifications in mind.

Answer: State regulations for orthodontic assistants can change every few years, often in response to advances in dental technology or public health policy. It’s a good idea to verify requirements with your state dental board at least once a year—or anytime you’re pursuing a new role, duty, or certification.

Answer: A dental assistant typically works in general dentistry and supports procedures like fillings, cleanings, and X-rays. An orthodontic assistant focuses on orthodontic care—working with braces, aligners, retainers, and other devices that straighten teeth. Some states have distinct regulations or additional requirements for orthodontic-specific duties.

Answer: It depends on the state. Some states require licensing through a dental board, while others accept national certifications like those from the DANB or allow assistants to work under direct supervision without a license. Always check your local regulations to know what’s required in your situation.

Answer: Most states require a separate certification or documented training in radiography before a dental or orthodontic assistant can legally take X-rays. This often involves passing the DANB Radiation Health and Safety (RHS) exam or completing a board-approved radiography course.

Answer: In most states, orthodontic assistants are not allowed to place braces or make major adjustments to orthodontic appliances. These procedures are usually restricted to licensed orthodontists. However, some states allow certified Expanded Function Dental Assistants (EFDAs) to perform limited adjustments under supervision.

Answer: Advancing your career can involve earning additional certifications (such as expanded functions or radiography), pursuing national credentials like the COA, or taking on specialized roles within the office (e.g., treatment coordinator, lead assistant, or office manager). Continued education is key to unlocking new responsibilities and pay opportunities.

Answer: Some states accept online training programs, particularly when combined with in-office supervision or clinical verification. Others require in-person components for certain certifications. Trapezio’s online courses are designed to meet the expectations of most state boards, but always double-check with your local regulatory authority before enrolling.

Answer: Reliable resources include your state dental board, the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB), and the American Dental Assistants Association (ADAA). Trapezio also offers training programs that align with many state and national standards—ideal for assistants, office managers, and doctors looking for practical onboarding and compliance solutions.