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

Pennsylvania offers unique opportunities in dental assisting, with specific state regulations and requirements. This comprehensive guide will help you understand the path to becoming a dental assistant in the Keystone State.

Career Prospects in Pennsylvania

The dental assisting field in Pennsylvania shows strong growth potential:

• Median salary: $41,890 per year (2023 data)
• Projected job growth: 7% through 2032
• High demand in major metropolitan areas (Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Harrisburg)
• Rural opportunities with potential signing bonuses
• Diverse work settings including private practices, dental clinics, and specialty offices

Pennsylvania’s Dental Assistant Classifications

Pennsylvania is unique in that it does not require state licensure for dental assistants. However, there are different levels of practice:

1. On-the-Job Trained Dental Assistant

• No formal education required
• Must work under direct supervision
• Limited to basic supportive duties

2. Expanded Function Dental Assistant (EFDA)

• Requires formal education and certification
• Can perform additional procedures
• Must be certified by the Pennsylvania State Board of Dentistry

Education and Training Requirements

Basic Dental Assistant

• High school diploma or equivalent
• On-the-job training
• CPR certification
• No formal state requirements

Expanded Function Dental Assistant (EFDA)

• Complete an approved EFDA program
• Pass the EFDA examination
• Obtain certification from the State Board of Dentistry
• Maintain continuing education requirements

Steps to Become a Dental Assistant in Pennsylvania

1. Basic Educational Requirements

• Obtain high school diploma or GED
• Consider post-secondary education options

1. Choose Your Path

• Direct entry through on-the-job training, OR
• Formal education through accredited program

1. For EFDA Certification

• Complete approved EFDA program
• Pass written and clinical examinations
• Apply for certification with state board
• Complete continuing education requirements

1. Additional Certifications

• CPR/BLS certification
• Radiography certification (if taking X-rays)
• Optional national certification (DANB)

EFDA Program Requirements

EFDA programs must include:

• Minimum 200 hours of clinical experience
• Theoretical coursework
• Laboratory training
• Restorative function practice
• Infection control protocols
• Medical emergency management

National Certification (DANB)

While not required in Pennsylvania, DANB certification can enhance career opportunities:

CDA Examination Components

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

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent
• CPR certification
• Dental assisting education or experience
• Passing scores on all examination components

Educational Programs in Pennsylvania

Approved EFDA programs are available at:

• Harcum College
• Manor College
• Lehigh Carbon Community College
• Northampton Community College
• Community College of Philadelphia

Expanded Functions Permitted for EFDAs

Pennsylvania-certified EFDAs can perform:

• Placing and finishing restoration materials
• Performing coronal polishing
• Applying sealants
• Taking impressions
• Placing and removing temporary restorations
• Additional duties as specified by the State Board

Continuing Education Requirements

For EFDAs

• 10 hours of continuing education every 2 years
• Must include:
• Current clinical practices
• Dental public health
• Infection control
• Radiology (if certified)

For DANB Certification

• 12 continuing education credits annually
• CPR certification maintenance

Professional Organizations and Resources

State Organizations

• Pennsylvania Dental Association (PDA)
• Pennsylvania Dental Assistants Association (PDAA)
• Pennsylvania State Board of Dentistry

National Organizations

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

Financial Aid and Educational Support

• Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
• Pennsylvania State Grant Program
• Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA)
• School-specific scholarships
• Professional organization grants

Salary and Benefits

Salary Ranges

• Entry-level: $32,000-$37,000
• Experienced: $38,000-$45,000
• EFDA: $45,000-$55,000+

Common Benefits

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

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 study clubs
• Network with other professionals

1. Skills Enhancement

• Develop strong communication skills
• Master new technologies
• Learn dental software programs
• Study practice management

1. Career Planning

• Set clear goals
• Seek mentorship
• Build a professional portfolio
• Consider long-term objectives

Additional Resources

Job Search Resources

• Pennsylvania Dental Association Job Board
• PA CareerLink
• Indeed.com dental listings
• DentalPost.net

Professional Development

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

Legal Requirements

• Pennsylvania Dental Practice Act
• State Board of Dentistry regulations
• OSHA compliance guidelines
• HIPAA requirements

Maintaining Your Career

1. Stay Current

• Follow industry trends
• Learn new procedures
• Update certifications
• Maintain professional memberships

1. Document Everything

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

1. Build Your Network

• Connect with colleagues
• Join study clubs
• Participate in online forums
• Attend industry events

Becoming a dental assistant in Pennsylvania offers multiple pathways to success, with opportunities for advancement through additional certifications and specializations. Whether choosing the direct entry route or pursuing EFDA certification, the field provides rewarding opportunities to serve in oral healthcare while building a stable career.