Do you need a high school diploma or GED to work as dental assistant?

Yes, a high school diploma or General Education Development (GED) certificate is typically required to work as a dental assistant. Some employers may also require candidates to have completed a dental assisting program.

Dental assistants work closely with dentists and other dental professionals to provide patient care. They may perform a variety of tasks, such as:

* Preparing patients for dental procedures

* Taking X-rays

* Cleaning teeth

* Applying sealants and fluoride treatments

* Assisting dentists with surgical procedures

* Sterilizing dental instruments

* Scheduling appointments and managing patient records

Dental assistants must have a good understanding of dental procedures and terminology. They must also be able to work well with patients, dentists, and other dental professionals.

Most dental assisting programs are accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA). These programs typically take one to two years to complete. Upon completion of a CODA-accredited program, dental assistants are eligible to sit for the Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) exam. The CDA credential is a nationally recognized certification that demonstrates a dental assistant's knowledge and skills.

With a high school diploma or GED and a dental assisting degree or certificate, individuals can find job opportunities in a variety of dental settings, such as private dental offices, hospitals, and dental clinics.