Dental Assistant

Dental assistants help provide patient care and keep dental practices running efficiently. Dental assistants can receive on-the-job training, have flexible hours and great pay. Plus you’ll enjoy a fulfilling career helping people!

What does a dental assistant do?
  • Assists dentists with procedures like fillings.
  • Helps patients feel comfortable.
  • Takes patients’ blood pressure.
  • Takes and processes x-rays.
  • Helps maintain a clean, safe work environment by sterilizing equipment.
  • Provides follow up care instructions for patients.
What kind of training does a dental assistant need?

Dental assistants can receive on the job training. Certificate and two-year degree programs are also available for dental assistants. Dental assistants who take x-rays must hold a permit to do so from the Ohio State Dental Board. Individuals may also become Certified Dental Assistants (CDAs) by meeting certain criteria and passing an exam. CDAs may polish teeth and place sealants in addition to providing all of the services that a dental assistant can.

Click here for a list of dental assisting training opportunities in Ohio.

Learn more about a career in dental assisting