You passed your CDA exam! Now what?
After hours of study and preparation, you’re now a Certified Dental Assistant (CDA)! It’s a great feeling to pass the exam, but what do you do next?
Becoming a CDA is an exciting accomplishment, and its value extends far beyond adding letters to your name. It provides increased knowledge and more confidence, and can even lead to higher wages. As this certification needs to be renewed annually, it’s a great way to show dedication to your role.
Madison, CDA, says, “I used to have a hard time coming off as confident in my work as a dental assistant. But as I’ve grown and gained certification, I’m able to present myself and my answers more confidently — which can help patients feel more trusting and at ease during their visit.”
Here are three ways dental assistants can use CDA certification to elevate their career and become more established in the profession.
Stand out when applying for jobs
One reason to earn CDA certification is having an edge in a competitive job market. DANB’s recent salary survey found that 60% of CDAs feel that a main benefit of certification is standing out when applying for jobs. Earning and maintaining CDA certification indicates that you’re knowledgeable and capable.
“I’ve worked in the field of dentistry as a manager and dental hygienist for more than 20 years,” shares Marie, CDA. “Passing the CDA exam was the beginning of what has been a long, wonderful career in dentistry. I am proud of it and have encouraged many of my peers to earn and utilize credentials.”
The component exams that make up this certification — Infection Control (ICE), Radiation Health and Safety (RHS), and General Chairside Assisting (GC) — prepare dental assistants for critical aspects of their position. The clinical understanding that comes with certification increases your confidence, which can shine through during interviews. Additionally, becoming a CDA shows you’re committed to your work and dedicated to maintaining a high standard of care.
Pursue leadership opportunities
Becoming a CDA doesn’t just strengthen your clinical expertise; it also shows employers you’re ready to take on greater responsibility. Certified Dental Assistants are more likely to be lead dental assistants and train or supervise others, according to DANB’s salary survey, due to having more confidence in their skills. These opportunities can build valuable management and communication skills while setting you up for continued career advancement.
Jill, CDA, says, “I’m the compliance lead in my office because my superpowers guarantee we follow all rules to a T. I make sure we are always following proper protocols and everyone is safe no matter where they are in the office.”
On the clinical side, CDAs can work as infection control coordinators to ensure their practice is complying with local and federal regulations to provide the highest quality of patient care. Depending on the practice where you work, there may also be administrative positions. For instance, an early-career dental assistant can earn CDA certification, then advance to roles in office management, education, or billing and insurance.
Work with greater confidence
Certified Dental Assistants go above and beyond to expand their skillset and learn as they grow in their roles. This can increase their confidence, eventually leading to higher wages. DANB’s salary survey found 76% of CDAs feel very confident in their roles, nearly 30% more than assistants who are not certified. This self-assurance also increases patient-provider trust.
“Having a strong foundation in infection control knowledge transforms standard clinical rules into a deliberate practice that directly enhances patient safety and trust,” says Brianna, CDA. “When patients witness sanitary techniques, such as hand hygiene, proper barrier usage, and opening sterilized instruments in their presence, it significantly reduces dental anxiety and instills confidence in their care.”
When dental assistants are more confident in their abilities, they are less stressed when walking into the office and can focus on helping patients feel their best. Additionally, it’s easier to calm anxious patients when you have the background information to answer their questions and ease their concerns. When you feel comfortable with what you’re doing, it can automatically make patients feel better during their visit.