Have you been considering a career in dentistry? Earning a four-year degree is an option, but it takes time, and the cost can be out of reach for a lot of people. A less expensive and faster way to enter the field is to become a dental assistant. Registered dental assistant programs in California can have you working in healthcare in under a year!

You may be wondering how to find the best program for you. Not all programs are the same. Here we discuss common questions about dental assisting, the role of an RDA, and licensing to help you along the way.

What Does a Registered Dental Assistant Do?

Registered dental assistants are vital members of the dental team. They work directly with patients, and their responsibilities often include:

  • Preparing treatment rooms and sterilizing instruments
  • Taking and developing dental X-rays
  • Assisting the dentist during procedures
  • Preparing temporary crowns
  • Teaching patients about oral hygiene
  • Handling some office duties like charting and scheduling

RDAs in California are authorized to perform more duties than unlicensed assistants, leading to better pay and responsibility.

Why Choose a Career as a Registered Dental Assistant in California?

Being close to one of the largest dental markets in the country has perks. Many find a successful career as a:

  • RDA because the training is relatively short compared to other programs.
  • RDA because employment is stable and predictable.
  • RDA because the pathways to other dental careers are flexible and varied.
  • RDA because flexible scheduling is offered at many practices.

California Requirements for Becoming an RDA

If you wish to become an RDA, the Dental Board of California will have the most up-to-date regulations. In general, you’ll have to:

  • Complete a board-approved RDA program or meet the board’s work-experience pathway.
  • Take coursework such as Infection Control, the California Dental Practice Act, and BLS.
  • Submit to a background check.
  • Pass a written and practical exam.

Be sure to visit the California Dental Board for the most up-to-date rules. Reputable schools will walk you through all of this to make the process as smooth as possible.

How to Choose the Best Dental Assistant Schools in California

Ask for their review rate on the Dental Assisting National Board examination (or state board examination).

  • Do they provide hands-on clinical experience?
  • What is the average enrollment?
  • Do they teach E.D.P.A. and infection control?
  • Are they accredited?

Is the Program Board-Approved?

 

If your school isn't board-approved, your training won't count toward licensure. Double-check that your school is on the list of approved schools.

How Much Hands-On Training Will You Get?

You can't learn to be a dental assistant by reading textbooks. Looking through dental assisting programs and looking for the ones that include in-person labs and opportunities to work with real dental equipment is important.

Small class sizes are also helpful since it means there will be fewer people for the instructors to teach and therefore more opportunities for individualized instruction.

What Do the Schedule and Cost Look Like?

Ask your admissions rep about class times, tuition, and additional fees. Also make sure you understand the costs associated with dental assisting school. Some schools charge for things like textbooks and lab equipment. Weekend and evening classes can work best if you're supporting a family or working.

Do They Offer Career Support?

Schools that offer aftercare support and services are a big plus. Many employers in the dental field have connections to schools and programs and offer these services to graduates for free or at a reduced rate.

Why Hands-On Dental Assistant School in Calabasas, CA Is Worth a Look

Career fairs and other events provide networking opportunities to meet dental professionals who can provide recommendations and connections to local dental offices.

Meet the people you will be learning from and the people you will be training with. Ask to see their classroom and get a sense of the resources they have for current and upcoming students and the kind of prep they offer for the exams.

Tips for Succeeding in Your Dental Assistant Program

While working on breaking in your tools and getting a feel for the fundamentals of your chosen trade, keeping these things in mind can help you graduate and get your first job in the field:

  • Practice a lot. Setting up and charting take repetition to get good at and to feel confident doing.
  • Study for the exams well in advance. Don't cram the last month.
  • Ask for clarification if you don't understand something.
  • Talk to people and get your name out there. Classmates and teachers are potential contacts.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to become a registered dental assistant in California?

It is different for each pathway and program. Many board-approved programs take several months to complete; then there are the licensing exams. Check with the school for its schedule.

Do I need a college degree to enroll?

No. Most RDA programs require a high school diploma or equivalent. Individual schools may have additional entry requirements. Confirm before applying.

How much do registered dental assistants earn in California?

It varies by city, experience, and the type of practice. RDAs generally earn more than unlicensed assistants, and California pays dental assistants above the national average. To find out more, visit the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Can I work while attending school?

Many students are able to work and go to school at the same time. Look for training with flexible classes, perhaps evening or weekend classes.

Final Thoughts

Deciding on the right registered dental assistant school can be a large decision, but it doesn't need to be an overwhelming one. Find a board-approved school with plenty of opportunities for hands-on training, clear costs and fees, and career-long support.

When you find schools with those features, you can feel more confident in moving toward a new career in a high-demand field.

Are you ready to move toward a new career? Call the Hands-On Dental Assistant School in Calabasas CA, campus to schedule an appointment to learn more.