Are you interested in starting a career as a dental assistant in Florida? As a dental assistant, you’ll play an integral role in supporting dental teams, ensuring patients receive high-quality care, and managing various office tasks. Whether you’re looking for a stable job or the opportunity to help others maintain their oral health, becoming a dental assistant is a rewarding path. Here’s a detailed guide on how to become a dental assistant in Florida.
Step 1: Understand the Role of a Dental Assistant
A dental assistant’s job involves a wide range of tasks that support both the dentist and the patient. Some of the core duties include:
- Assisting the dentist during procedures
- Taking and processing dental x-rays
- Sterilizing and disinfecting equipment and instruments
- Educating patients about proper oral hygiene
- Managing patient records and scheduling appointments
While dental assistants in Florida may take on different responsibilities depending on the office, these tasks are central to the role.
Step 2: Meet Basic Educational Requirements
You must have a high school diploma or equivalent, such as a GED, prior to looking into dental assisting as a profession. Course work in high school biology, chemistry, and the health sciences will not be required, but very useful, as this may give a deeper foundation upon which further medical-related principles of dentistry can be founded.
Step 3: Choose Between Two Training Pathways
Formal training programs for dental assistants in Florida can be entered either by enrolling in a CODA-accredited program or by attending a program that has been approved by the Board of Dentistry. Both paths have advantages, but either path will give one the skill and knowledge to perform well in this profession.
Option 1: Enroll in a CODA-Accredited Program
A CODA-accredited program is one that has been accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation, an organization that ensures the program meets high standards of education. CODA-accredited programs are usually offered by community colleges, vocational schools, or universities and provide a comprehensive curriculum that covers:
- Dental anatomy and terminology
- Infection control and safety protocols
- Radiology (dental x-rays)
- Patient care and communication
- Office management and administrative tasks
Completion of a CODA-accredited program is usually the gold standard in pursuing dental assisting. These programs usually take about 9–12 months for completion for certificate programs and take approximately two years for associate degree programs. By the time you graduate, you will be ready to take certification exams and pursue a career as a qualified dental assistant.
Option 2: Attend a Board of Dentistry-Approved Program
The Florida Board of Dentistry also approves certain dental assistant training programs that may not be CODA-accredited but still meet the state’s educational requirements. These programs are typically offered by local dental offices, vocational schools, or technical institutes. Board-approved programs may offer shorter or more flexible training options compared to CODA programs.
These programs also cover essential topics like:
- Radiography
- Infection control
- Chairside assisting
- Patient management
- Dental materials and tools
Though the curriculum might be different for one program from another, it needs to be in accordance with the minimum requirements by the Florida Board of Dentistry so that you are properly trained. Graduates of Board-approved programs are eligible to work as dental assistants in Florida and may also obtain certification through the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB).
Step 4: Gain Hands-on Experience through Clinical Training
Whether you pursue a CODA-accredited or Board-approved program, either way, there is likely a clinical component involved. This would provide the opportunity to work directly with patients and other dental professionals in an actual dental office setting. Clinical training is necessary in making one a competent dental assistant and helps in perfecting one’s skills for the future.
Step 5: Obtain Certification (Optional but Recommended)
Although certification is not a requirement to become a dental assistant in Florida, obtaining it can significantly enhance your job prospects. The Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) offers several certification exams, including:
- Certified Dental Assistant (CDA): This is the most recognized credential for dental assistants and demonstrates that you have mastered essential dental assisting skills.
- Radiation Health and Safety (RHS) Certification: For dental assistants who wish to perform x-rays, this certification is required.
- Certified Preventive Functions Dental Assistant (CPFDA): This allows dental assistants to perform specific preventive procedures like fluoride treatments or coronal polishing.
By earning certifications, you show employers that you are a skilled and committed professional, making you a more competitive candidate for dental assistant positions.
Step 6: Apply for Dental Assistant Jobs
With your training complete, you can begin looking for dental assistant positions in Florida. Jobs are available in a variety of settings, including:
- Private dental offices
- Community health centers
- Hospitals and clinics
- Public health organizations
Networking with dental professionals, checking online job boards, and directly contacting dental offices are great ways to find job openings. Be sure to highlight your training, any certifications you’ve earned, and your clinical experience when applying for positions.
Becoming a dental assistant in Florida is quite an exciting and promising career. Whichever option one feels more inclined toward, either a CODA-accredited program or one approved by the Board of Dentistry, the route to becoming a dental assistant has much to offer. Both will provide you with a good theoretical and practical background that will help you stand up to the challenges and rewards that come your way in the dental field.
Ready to get started? Learn about accredited and approved programs in Florida to get going on your path to a successful dental assisting career!