How to Become a Dental Assistant in California

A day in the life of a dental assistant includes working with dentists, dental hygienists and patients in a dentist’s office. Dental assistants work under the supervision of dentists, and many work full-time. Some also work evenings or weekends, depending on the dental office they work for.

One of the most important roles of dental assistants is providing chair-side support to patients and dentists. This is often done through preparation tasks such as ensuring instruments and equipment are sanitized. Dental assistants can prep materials for impressions or temporary crowns as well.

They also prepare patients for dental care and procedures by documenting their medical history, blood pressure or pulse. Additionally, dental assistants explain dental hygiene to patients and play a critical role in making patients feel at ease before a procedure.

Dental assistants need a combination of technical and soft skills. Many of the technical skills can be learned through classroom knowledge and developed through hands-on training. Dental assistants typically need technical skills related to:

• Dental equipment and software
• Dental impressions
• X-ray processing
• Coronal polishing
• Sealant, fluoride and topical anesthetic application
• Infection control procedures

Important qualities of dental assistants, as noted by the BLS, include⁷:

• Attention to detail
• Dexterity
• Interpersonal skills
• Listening skills
• Organizational skills

Choosing whether to pursue a dental assisting associate degree or certificate depends on your short and long-term career goals. An associate degree in dental assisting potentially offers higher earning potential and career advancement opportunities, as you can more easily transfer credits from an associate to bachelor program. However, a dental assisting certificate program is more cost and time-effective.

If you want to start working as a dental assistant sooner rather than later, pursuing a certificate is a great way to do so while setting yourself apart from other entry-level applicants. If you plan on using your dental assistant education as a stepping stone toward a long-term goal of becoming a dental hygienist or dentist, associate degree programs may be worth researching.

Dental Assisting program classes are generally tailored to meet national certification and state-specific licensure requirements. You can expect your dental assist courses to cover topics such as:

• Oral anatomy
• Dental equipment
• Radiation safety
• Infection control
• CPR and/or basic life support training
• Dental law and ethics
• Coronal polishing
• Dental software programs
• Patient management
• Dental office management

SJVC is committed to the personal, academic and professional success of its students. Our faculty bring years of knowledge and experience to the classroom. They’re passionate about helping you succeed. Whether you’re preparing for your first job out of college or a career switch, there’s a place for you here.

SJVC’s students range from those just out of high school to people looking to change careers later in life. We take pride in making sure staff knows your story so you can get the individual help and attention you need to succeed.