If you are interested in becoming a registered dental assistant, you may be able to pursue a position that provides on-the-job training. During this training, you will learn how to pass equipment to the dentist, how to take x-rays, how to sterilize equipment, and how to update patient charts. While there are some advantages to on-the-job training, like being paid as you learn, there are some distinct advantages of attending a dental assisting school first. Here are three advantages of getting certified at a dental assisting school.    

Schooling Can Help You Earn More

While registered dental assistants only need to apply for a state license and meet CPR/bloodborne pathogen training hours, certified dental assistants have to pass an exam from the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB). Assistants who are certified tend to have more training under their belt; and because of this additional training, DANB says that these employees tend to have a higher hourly pay compared to non-certified assistants.  

Schooling Offers More Opportunities for Specialization

Some dental assistants are happy to work at a general dentistry office, but some assistants may want to work for a dental specialist, like an endodontist or an orthodontist. While some specialists offer on-the-job training, they may prefer an assistant that already has some experience in their specialty.

When you attend a dental assisting school, you'll have the opportunity to take classes that align with your areas of interest. For instance, if you want to assist an orthodontist eventually, you can take assisting classes that focus on how to adjust wires, brackets, and Invisalign trays. If you want to work with children, it may be beneficial to take an assisting class that focuses on pediatric dentistry and how to better relate to younger patients.

Lastly, some assisting students may want to pursue an expanded functions dental assistant (EFDA) certificate. EFDAs tend to get paid more than registered assistants, and depending on your state's laws, they can enjoy advanced duties, such as applying sealants, applying fluoride varnish, applying a local anesthetic, and working with oral prosthetics.

Schooling Helps You Transfer Skills Between States

With on-the-job training, you may learn skills that are specific to your dental office. However, if you move to a different town or out of state, you may need to re-learn certain skills to suit the new office. With schooling, there is more standardization with training, so your skills are more easily transferrable. For instance, it will be easier to find a job if you move out of state, since DentistryIQ says that dental assisting certification is recognized or required by 38 states—as well as the US Air Force and the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Reach out to a dental school in your area today to learn more about dental assisting training. For more information on dental assistant training, contact a professional near you.

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