Become a Dental Assistant in the District of Columbia - DC

By an allied health world contributing writer
Published: January 22nd, 2010

There are currently 500 registered dental assistants in the District of Columbia, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

How to Become a Dental Assistant in the District of Columbia

Dental assistants in the District of Columbia do not need to be licensed to practice. A dental auxiliary in the District of Columbia is a dental assistant that performs expanded functions and does need additional training and education. Therefore, the path to becoming a dental assistant or dental auxiliary varies greatly. If you are interested in becoming a dental assistant or dental auxiliary, check with local dentists to determine their education requirements. Training for a dental auxiliary often comes from the military. Below are basic steps to becoming a dental assistant or dental auxiliary in the District of Columbia:

Choose an educational path to becoming a dental assistant or dental auxiliary. Choices include on-the-job training, a dental assistant certificate program often offered by community colleges, or military training.
Complete chosen education.
Obtain CPR training and certification.
Take the American Dental Assisting National Board Exam, if applicable. A dental auxiliary is required to complete a radiation course or exam that is recognized by the American Dental Association Continuing Education Recognition Program; or be certified by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists; or complete a radiation course and pass the national Dental Assisting National Board Radiation Health and Safety Exam.

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