How to Become a Dental Assistant in Kansas: A Complete Career Guide

Kansas offers unique opportunities for aspiring dental assistants, with relatively flexible entry requirements but clear pathways for advancement. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about starting and growing your career as a dental assistant in the Sunflower State.

Career Overview and Job Prospects

The dental assisting field in Kansas presents strong career opportunities:

• Job Growth: Expected 10% growth through 2031, faster than average
• Salary Range: Kansas dental assistants typically earn between $34,000 and $44,000 annually
• Geographic Opportunities: Positions available in urban centers like Kansas City, Wichita, and Topeka, as well as rural communities
• Practice Settings: Private dental offices, specialty practices, public health clinics, and dental school clinics

Unique Aspects of Dental Assisting in Kansas

Kansas is somewhat unique in its approach to dental assisting regulation:

• No mandatory state registration or licensure for basic dental assisting
• Specific certifications required for expanded functions
• Dentists responsible for ensuring assistants are properly trained
• Focus on on-the-job training with optional formal education

Levels of Dental Assisting in Kansas

1. Entry-Level Dental Assistant

• Can perform basic supportive procedures
• No formal registration required
• Must work under direct supervision

2. Certified Dental Assistant (CDA)

• Optional national certification
• Demonstrates advanced knowledge and skills
• Often preferred by employers

3. Expanded Functions Dental Assistant

• Can perform additional procedures with proper certification
• Requires specific training and certification
• Higher earning potential

Education and Training Requirements

Basic Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Must be at least 18 years old
• CPR certification

Educational Pathways

Option 1: On-the-Job Training

• Most common entry path in Kansas
• Learn directly from dentist and experienced staff
• No specific time requirement
• Must include training in:
• Infection control
• OSHA standards
• HIPAA compliance
• Basic dental procedures

Option 2: Formal Education

• Complete a CODA-accredited dental assisting program
• Programs typically last 9-12 months
• Combines classroom instruction with clinical experience
• Available at several Kansas colleges

Steps to Start Working as a Dental Assistant in Kansas

1. Meet Basic Requirements

• Obtain high school diploma or equivalent
• Acquire CPR certification
• Complete OSHA safety training

1. Choose Educational Path

• Decide between formal education or on-the-job training
• Research accredited programs if choosing formal education

1. Complete Required Training

• Infection control procedures
• Radiography training (if taking x-rays)
• Basic dental procedures
• Office protocols and procedures

1. Optional: Pursue National Certification

• Consider becoming a Certified Dental Assistant (CDA)
• Enhances employment opportunities
• May lead to higher pay

National Certification Through DANB

The Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) offers valuable certifications:

Certified Dental Assistant (CDA)

• Three component exams:

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

• Requirements:
• High school diploma or equivalent
• CPR certification
• Passing scores on all three exams

Additional DANB Certifications

• Radiation Health and Safety (RHS) certification
• Infection Control (ICE) certification
• Various specialty certifications

Expanded Functions in Kansas

Kansas allows dental assistants to perform expanded functions with proper certification:

Coronal Polishing

• Requires completion of approved course
• Minimum of 6 months work experience
• Clinical competency evaluation

Coronal Scaling

• Additional training required
• Must complete approved course
• Clinical evaluation necessary

Radiography

• Complete approved radiography course
• Pass examination
• Maintain proper documentation

Continuing Education and Professional Development

While Kansas doesn’t mandate continuing education for basic dental assistants, it’s recommended for career growth:

• Maintain CPR certification
• Stay current with infection control protocols
• Update knowledge of dental materials and procedures
• Participate in professional development opportunities

Professional Organizations and Resources

Kansas Dental Association

• Provides industry updates
• Offers networking opportunities
• Resources for dental professionals
• Website: www.ksdental.org

Kansas Dental Board

• Oversees dental practice regulations
• Provides information on requirements
• Maintains list of approved courses
• Website: www.dental.ks.gov

American Dental Assistants Association (ADAA)

• National professional organization
• Continuing education opportunities
• Career resources and support
• Website: www.adaausa.org

Educational Programs in Kansas

Several institutions offer dental assisting programs:

• Wichita State University Campus of Applied Sciences and Technology
• Johnson County Community College
• Manhattan Area Technical College
• Flint Hills Technical College

Career Advancement Opportunities

Dental assistants in Kansas can advance their careers through:

1. Skill Enhancement

• Obtaining expanded function certifications
• Pursuing national certification
• Specializing in specific areas of dentistry

1. Career Path Options

• Office management
• Dental sales
• Insurance coordination
• Dental hygiene (with additional education)
• Teaching in dental assisting programs

1. Specialization Areas

• Orthodontics
• Oral surgery
• Pediatric dentistry
• Periodontics

Tips for Success

1. Network Within the Field

• Join professional organizations
• Attend dental conferences
• Participate in continuing education events

1. Develop Soft Skills

• Patient communication
• Team collaboration
• Time management
• Problem-solving abilities

1. Stay Current

• Keep up with industry trends
• Learn new technologies
• Maintain certifications

Conclusion

While Kansas offers a relatively flexible path to entering the dental assisting profession, success in the field requires dedication to learning, professional development, and quality patient care. Whether choosing on-the-job training or formal education, focusing on continuous improvement and expanding your skills will help you build a rewarding career in dental assisting.