Look for dental assistant certificate training programs offered in your state that teach expanded functions. These are continuing-education programs available for individuals who are already working as a dental assistant. They are different from one-year certificate/diploma or two-year associate degree programs that combine chair-side dental assisting instruction with expanded-functions training for individuals who have no previous field experience, according to Harcum College in Pennsylvania. Look for expanded continuing-education programs at schools that are accredited by the American Dental Association.
Apply to enroll in the expanded-functions training program you've chosen. Some programs require you to be currently working in a dental office and have your certified dental assistant credential through the Dental Assisting National Board, according to the Indiana University School of Dentistry.
Other schools will require you to have a certain number of years of field experience or have experience as a dental hygienist. You also might have to complete a criminal background check and show proof of having completed a physical exam and having received a hepatitis B vaccination and tuberculosis skin test, according to Harcum College. Some schools also look for individuals who have current cardiopulmonary resuscitation certification, according to Manor College in Pennsylvania.
Prepare to spend about 30 or more hours learning how to complete restorative work in your expanded-functions training course. First, master dental anatomy, dental terminology and the proper technique to place a rubber dam, a device used to isolate a tooth to be worked on. Also, get ready to go over principles of dental radiology and complete written tests.
Learn how to place composite resin, or tooth-colored fillings, as well as amalgam, or silver-colored fillings, in various cavity situations. Master which matrix technique is necessary for each restoration. A matrix is a band that provides a temporary wall for a tooth structure during the restorative process, according to "Torres and Ehrlich Modern Dental Assisting." In addition, learn how to fabricate temporary crowns and complete other duties that are considered expanded functions in your state, such as packing retraction cord or obtaining final impressions for prosthetic procedures, according to the University of Tennessee.
Practice the skills you learned in class in your dental office of employment or in a dental externship site, depending on your school's program. Be ready to pass a state board certification exam if required in your state to practice as an expanded-functions dental assistant.