The United States of Dental Assisting
Many dental practices are actively looking to hire dental assistants. In the first quarter of 2026, the American Dental Association Health Policy Institute reported that 37% of dentist were actively looking to hire dental assistants. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates there are nearly 53,000 job openings for dental assistants each year.
Dental assistants are in demand!
If you’re new to dental assisting or considering becoming a dental assistant, you may be wondering how to get started. Do you have to go to a dental assistant school? Can you be trained on the job? What are you allowed to do as a dental assistant?
We answer all those questions, and more!
How can I become a dental assistant?
In most states, you can work as an entry-level dental assistant with no formal education or training. However, to take dental x-rays or perform more advanced duties, such as expanded functions, you will likely need formal training or education or to pass an exam. Each state has its own requirements and levels for dental assistants, so it can be tricky to figure out what you need to do to enter this career.
Where can I find the dental assisting requirements in my state?
Dental assisting requirements and levels vary from state to state. Your job title, education and exam requirements — and even what functions you’re allowed to perform — can change depending on the state where you work. DANB has an interactive tool where you can view the dental assisting requirements for every state.
What career opportunities are available for dental assistants?
Every state determines what types of duties dental assistants are allowed to do and the qualifications to do them. Across the country, there are more than 50 different designations for dental assistants! Most states, however, have two or three different designations or levels for dental assistants and allow assistants to perform more advanced duties as they earn more education and credentials.
For example, some states have an Expanded Functions Dental Assistant (EFDA) level, while other states have a Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) level. If your state doesn’t offer these credentials, they might have a different name for an advanced dental assistant or allow dental assistants to earn a certificate or permit to do certain functions. Looking up your state’s requirements is the best way to understand your career options.
Read more: EFDAs Across America report
What if I plan to move to a new state?
If you’re already working as a dental assistant and plan to move to a new state, get familiar with the dental assisting requirements in your new location. Depending on the state and your previous education and experience, you may need to take additional steps to get credentialed in your new location.
What if I don’t want to start over in a new state?
That is one of the biggest challenges as a dental assistant if you plan on moving. Since each state is different, you may not be able to work at the same level without more exams, education, or training.
Although there is no hard-and-fast rule, there are a couple things you can do to make it easier to relocate.
Attend a CODA-accredited program
Attending a Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) program is a good idea, since many states recognize or require these programs. DANB’s website includes a searchable map where you can look up dental assisting programs near you. The search also displays the program’s approvals or accreditation, so you can select the right one for your needs.
Earn DANB certification
DANB exams and certifications are recognized or required by 38 states, the District of Columbia, the U.S. Air Force, and the Department of Veterans Affairs. Because DANB exams are widely recognized, holding Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) certification or another DANB certification can make it easier to meet dental assisting requirements if you ever have to move and work in a new state.
Quiz: Which certification is right for you?
Where can I learn more?
DANB offers additional resources if you’d like to learn more about dental assisting requirements across the country, including State of the States reports and state publications.