Become a certified dental assistant in Rhode Island

To become a certified dental assistant in Rhode Island, there are several steps that need to be taken. First, an individual must complete a dental assisting program that is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA). This program can be completed at a community college, technical school, or vocational school. The program typically takes one to two years to complete and includes both classroom instruction and hands-on training.

After completing the dental assisting program, the individual must pass the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) exam. This exam consists of three parts: general chairside assisting, radiation health and safety, and infection control. Once the individual has passed the exam, they can apply for certification through the Rhode Island Board of Examiners in Dentistry.

In addition to completing the educational and exam requirements, there are also certain personal qualities that are important for a dental assistant. These include good communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work well with others. Dental assistants must also be comfortable working in a fast-paced environment and be able to handle stressful situations.