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Dental Assistants are healthcare professionals who work alongside dentists, dental hygienists, and other dental team members to provide comprehensive oral healthcare services. Their responsibilities include sterilizing instruments, preparing treatment rooms, assisting the dentist during procedures, taking x-rays, and educating patients on oral hygiene.
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Dental Assistants typically work in dental offices, clinics, hospitals, and other healthcare facilities that provide dental services. They may also work in schools, nursing homes, or other community settings where oral healthcare is provided.
To become a Dental Assistant in North Carolina, follow three steps. First, complete an accredited Dental Assisting program, typically lasting 1-2 years. Next, obtain certification by passing the CDA exam from DANB, showcasing proficiency. Finally, search for job opportunities in dental offices or clinics statewide for a competitive salary.
The time it takes to become a dental assistant typically ranges from 9 months to 2 years, depending on the educational path chosen. Many dental assistants complete a one-year certificate or diploma program, which includes both classroom instruction and hands-on training. Some may choose to pursue an associate degree, which takes about two years and may provide additional career opportunities. After completing their education, dental assistants often need to pass a certification exam, such as the Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) exam, which can take additional time to prepare for. Overall, becoming a dental assistant is a relatively quick process compared to other healthcare careers, allowing individuals to enter the workforce in under two years.
In North Carolina, the requirements to become a Dental Assistant include:
Dreambound is the largest platform for students to find and compare vocational training programs, including Dental Assistant programs in North Carolina. Dreambound can help you locate Dental Assistant classes near you and provide information on program details, costs, and financial aid options.
If you're aiming to pursue a career as a Dental Assistant but find yourself in a different state, remember, your goal is still within reach. You can explore opportunities to start your career as a Dental Assistant in places like Colorado, Maryland, Mississippi, Rhode Island, or Wisconsin. If these locations don't work for you, Dreambound simplifies the journey to becoming a Dental Assistant no matter where you live. By enabling you to find and compare Dental Assistant classes with a quick zip code search, Dreambound empowers you to move forward confidently towards a rewarding career in healthcare, regardless of your current location.
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To obtain your Dental Assistant certification in North Carolina, you must complete a state-approved training program and pass the DANB CDA exam. Once you have your certification, you can apply for the Dental Assistant II (DA II) certification from the North Carolina State Board of Dental Examiners.
After completing your Dental Assistant training and obtaining your certification, you can search for job opportunities at dental offices, clinics, and other healthcare facilities in North Carolina. Many dental practices actively seek out certified Dental Assistants to join their teams.
With your Dental Assistant certification, you can pursue a variety of career paths, including:
When it comes to salary, the amount a dental assistant earns can vary based on several factors, such as location, experience, education, and the type of dental practice they work in. On average, dental assistants in the United States earn a median annual salary of around $40,080, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). However, the starting salary for dental assistants is typically lower, ranging from around $29,000 to $35,000 per year.\r
Becoming a Dental Assistant in North Carolina is a rewarding career path that allows you to play a vital role in providing high-quality oral healthcare to patients. By completing the necessary training and certification requirements, you can start your journey towards a fulfilling career as a Dental Assistant.
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Athena is Co-founder and CEO of Dreambound.