Become a Dental Assistant in New Jersey - NJ

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are currently 280,000 dental assistants employed nation-wide. Dental assistants work alongside dental hygienist and assist dentists with a variety of dental and office tasks. There are and 9,620 registered dental assistants employed in New Jersey. Becoming a dental assistant is appealing to many because of the professions flexible hours and schedule, competitive pay, and minimal schooling.

How to Become a Dental Assistant in New Jersey

1. Be 18 years of age successfully complete high school or a GED.
2. Choose one of two paths to becoming an entry-level dental assistant: pursue an education at an accredited dental assisting program or complete on-the-job dental training. On-the-job training may also be required even if you have completed a dental assisting educational program. At the completion of your education with a state accredited dental assisting program, you will receive a Dental Assistant Certificate and be a Certified Dental Assistant (CDA).
3. Pursue registration as a New Jersey State Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) through additional education. Although this is not required, it is the highest level of dental assisting in the state.