To legally operate dental x-ray equipment and perform dental radiographic procedures in Nebraska, a dental assistant must meet the requirements shown below.
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A dental assistant must:
1. Successfully complete a two-day course approved by the Nebraska Board of Dentistry and the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services Regulation and Licensure, OR
2. Pass the national DANB Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) exam, OR
3. Successfully complete a dental assisting course from a CODA-accredited technical school or community college which provides training in dental radiography as part of its curriculum.
Note: All dental assistants must be at least 18 years of age.
Learn more about DANB's Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) certification
CODA-Accredited Dental Assisting Programs
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A dental assistant in Nebraska may perform basic supportive dental procedures specified by the state dental practice act under the supervision of a licensed dentist.
There are no education or training requirements for this level of dental assisting.
Dental assistants who assist in the administration of general anesthesia, deep sedation, moderate sedation or minimal sedation must be currently certified in basic life support skills (BLS) or the equivalent.
Note: All dental assistants must be at least 18 years of age.
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To perform coronal polishing procedures under the indirect supervision of a licensed dentist in Nebraska, a dental assistant must:
1. Be at least 18 years of age, AND
2a. Graduate from a CODA-accredited dental assisting program which includes a coronal polishing course, OR
2b. Complete one year (1,500 hours minimum) of clinical work experience as a dental assistant
and a Nebraska Board-approved course in polishing procedures.
CODA-Accredited Dental Assisting Programs