How to Become a Dental Assistant in Tennessee: A Complete Guide

Tennessee has specific requirements for dental assistants that make it unique among Southern states. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of becoming a dental assistant in the Volunteer State.

Career Prospects in Tennessee

The dental assisting field in Tennessee shows strong growth potential:

• Median salary: $40,230 per year (2023 data)
• Projected job growth: 8% through 2032
• High demand in major cities (Nashville, Memphis, Knoxville)
• Growing opportunities in rural areas
• Various work settings including private practices, dental clinics, and specialty offices

Levels of Dental Assisting in Tennessee

Tennessee recognizes several levels of dental assistants:

1. Practical Dental Assistant

• No registration required
• Basic supportive duties only
• Must work under direct supervision

2. Registered Dental Assistant (RDA)

• State registration required
• Can perform expanded functions
• Must complete approved training

3. Registered Dental Assistant with Expanded Functions

• Additional certifications required
• Can perform more complex procedures
• Requires specific training for each function

Tennessee State Requirements

For All Dental Assistants:

• Must be at least 18 years old
• High school diploma or equivalent
• Current CPR certification
• Tennessee jurisprudence exam
• Registration with State Board

Additional Requirements for RDAs:

• Complete approved training program OR
• Minimum 1 year of experience plus training
• Pass written and clinical examinations
• Complete continuing education requirements

Education and Training Pathways

Option 1: Formal Education Route

1. Complete a CODA-accredited dental assisting program

• Programs typically take 9-12 months
• Include classroom and clinical training
• Prepare for state registration

Option 2: Experience Route

1. Work as practical dental assistant
2. Complete required training modules
3. Gain minimum required experience
4. Apply for registration

Steps to Become an RDA in Tennessee

1. Initial Requirements

• Obtain high school diploma or GED
• Become CPR certified
• Complete infection control training

1. Choose Educational Path

• Enroll in accredited program, OR
• Begin as practical dental assistant

1. Complete Required Training

• Basic life support
• Radiology certification
• Coronal polishing certification
• Sealant certification (if desired)

1. State Registration

• Pass Tennessee jurisprudence exam
• Submit application to State Board
• Provide proof of training/education
• Pay required fees

Expanded Functions in Tennessee

RDAs can qualify for additional certifications in:

• Coronal polishing
• Sealant application
• Nitrous oxide monitoring
• Prosthetic functions
• Restorative functions

Requirements for each function:

• Additional specific training
• Separate certification exam
• Clinical competency evaluation
• Continuing education maintenance

Educational Programs in Tennessee

Accredited programs available at:

• Tennessee College of Applied Technology
• Chattanooga State Community College
• Nashville State Community College
• Southwest Tennessee Community College
• Volunteer State Community College

DANB Certification Information

While not required in Tennessee, national certification can enhance career opportunities:

CDA Examination Components:

1. General Chairside Assisting (GC)
2. Radiation Health and Safety (RHS)
3. Infection Control (ICE)

Requirements:

• Graduate from accredited program OR equivalent experience
• Current CPR certification
• Pass all examination components
• Pay examination fees (approximately $450)

Continuing Education Requirements

For RDAs:

• 24 hours of continuing education every 2 years
• Must include:
• 2 hours chemical dependency
• 2 hours infection control
• 2 hours medical emergencies
• Specific hours for expanded functions

For DANB Certification:

• 12 continuing education credits annually
• CPR certification maintenance

Professional Organizations and Resources

State Organizations

• Tennessee Dental Association (TDA)
• Tennessee Dental Assistants Association
• Tennessee Board of Dentistry

National Organizations

• American Dental Assistants Association (ADAA)
• Dental Assisting National Board (DANB)

Financial Aid and Support

• Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
• Tennessee Promise Scholarship
• Tennessee Reconnect Grant
• Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA)
• Institution-specific scholarships

Salary and Benefits

Salary Ranges:

• Entry-level: $32,000-$36,000
• Registered (RDA): $36,000-$45,000
• Expanded Functions: $42,000-$52,000+

Common Benefits:

• Health insurance
• Dental coverage
• Paid time off
• Retirement plans
• Continuing education assistance
• Professional development opportunities

Career Advancement Opportunities

1. Specialization Areas

• Orthodontics
• Oral surgery
• Pediatric dentistry
• Periodontics

1. Administrative Roles

• Office management
• Treatment coordination
• Insurance coordination

1. Education

• Clinical instructor
• Program educator
• Corporate trainer

Tips for Success

1. Professional Development

• Join professional associations
• Attend dental conferences
• Participate in continuing education
• Network with colleagues

1. Essential Skills

• Strong communication
• Attention to detail
• Technical proficiency
• Patient care excellence

1. Career Planning

• Set clear goals
• Seek mentorship
• Build professional portfolio
• Stay current with industry trends

Additional Resources

Job Search Resources

• Tennessee Department of Labor Job Bank
• TDA Job Board
• DentalPost.net
• Indeed.com dental listings

Professional Development

• OSHA training resources
• Dental manufacturer training programs
• Online continuing education providers
• Local dental society events

Legal Requirements

• Tennessee Dental Practice Act
• State Board regulations
• OSHA compliance guidelines
• HIPAA requirements

Starting Your Career

1. Preparation

• Research programs and requirements
• Create career plan
• Build professional network
• Develop strong resume

1. Initial Employment

• Consider internships
• Look for entry-level positions
• Build experience
• Learn from experienced professionals

1. Career Growth

• Pursue additional certifications
• Consider specialization
• Seek advancement opportunities
• Continue professional development

Maintaining Your Career

1. Stay Current

• Follow industry trends
• Update skills regularly
• Maintain certifications
• Participate in continuing education

1. Professional Relationships

• Build team relationships
• Develop patient rapport
• Network with colleagues
• Join professional groups

1. Documentation

• Keep certification records
• Track continuing education
• Maintain employment history
• Save performance reviews

Becoming a dental assistant in Tennessee offers multiple pathways to success, with opportunities for advancement through additional certifications and specializations. Whether choosing the traditional educational route or starting with practical experience, dental assisting provides a rewarding career serving the oral health needs of Tennessee residents.