As with many jobs in healthcare, employment opportunities for qualified Dental Assistants are on the rise. The U.S. Department of Labor reports that dental assisting is expected to be among the fastest growing occupations, with an increase of up to 36%, from 2008-2018. Dental Assistants complete an array of tasks in the dental office, including:

• Preparing patients for dental procedures
• Ensuring the sterility of the dental environment
• Assisting dentists during procedures by providing tools and materials
• Working with suppliers to schedule deliveries
• Helping patients schedule appointments
• Teaching patients about proper oral health
• Taking patient x-rays

Dental Assisting Diploma Programs are available for those looking to enter the job market quickly. Certificate programs offer the basic skills needed to get a job quickly, sometimes in less than one year. For those looking for more extensive education, an Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree in Dental Assisting may be a good choice. Graduates holding an associate degree may take the Dental Assisting National Board, Inc. (DANB) exam to become certified. Dental assistants that meet eligibility and exam requirements may earn national certification in one or more of the following areas:

• Certified Dental Assistant - CDA^©
• Certified Orthodontic Assistant - COA^©
• Certified Preventive Dental Assistant - CPDA^TM

Explore dental assisting program online to find the one that best suits your needs. Whether you've just graduated high school or you're going back to school as an adult, accredited online and campus degrees have helped many further their education and achieve success. Request information from one of the top education programs below and prepare yourself for a successful and rewarding career as a Dental Assistant.