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

Overview

Colorado offers unique opportunities for dental assistants, with a growing healthcare sector and increasing demand for dental services. Unlike many states, Colorado does not require dental assistants to be licensed or registered, but there are specific requirements for certain expanded duties.

Career Prospects

Job Outlook

• Projected growth rate of 9% through 2031 (Colorado Department of Labor)
• Median salary: $42,560 annually
• Higher wages in Denver-Aurora-Lakewood metropolitan area
• Strong demand in both urban and mountain communities

Work Environment

• Private dental practices
• Group dental clinics
• Specialty practices
• Public health facilities
• Educational institutions
• Corporate dental chains

Dental Assistant Levels in Colorado

1. Basic Dental Assistant

• Entry-level position
• No formal certification required
• On-the-job training
• Basic chairside duties

2. Dental Assistant with Expanded Duties

• Additional certifications required
• Broader scope of practice
• Higher earning potential
• Specialized training needed

Colorado State Requirements

Basic Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent
• CPR certification
• OSHA safety training
• Infection control knowledge

Expanded Functions Requirements

• Complete specific training for each expanded function
• Obtain certification from approved provider
• Document training completion
• Maintain continuing education

Permitted Duties and Functions

Basic Duties

• Chairside assistance
• Instrument sterilization
• Patient preparation
• Administrative tasks
• Basic laboratory procedures

Expanded Functions (With Proper Certification)

• Placing and removing periodontal dressings
• Placing temporary fillings
• Placing and removing orthodontic bands
• Taking impressions
• Applying pit and fissure sealants
• Performing coronal polishing

Education and Training Options

Formal Education Programs

1. Certificate Programs

• Duration: 9-12 months
• Clinical experience included
• Basic dental assisting skills
• Entry-level preparation

1. Associate Degree Programs

• Duration: 2 years
• Comprehensive education
• Advanced career opportunities
• Higher earning potential

Program Components

• Dental anatomy
• Chairside procedures
• Dental materials
• Radiography
• Infection control
• Laboratory procedures
• Clinical externships

National Certification (DANB)

CDA Certification Benefits

• Professional recognition
• Higher salary potential
• Career advancement
• Job mobility

Certification Requirements

1. Complete accredited program or equivalent experience
2. Pass three component exams:

• General Chairside (GC)
• Radiation Health and Safety (RHS)
• Infection Control (ICE)

1. Maintain current CPR certification
2. Complete continuing education requirements

Steps to Become a Dental Assistant in Colorado

1. Educational Planning

• Research training options
• Consider program costs
• Evaluate location and schedule
• Review admission requirements

1. Complete Education

• Enroll in chosen program
• Maintain good academic standing
• Complete clinical requirements
• Network with professionals

1. Obtain Certifications

• Complete CPR training
• Pursue expanded functions certifications
• Consider DANB certification
• Complete specific duty training

1. Gain Experience

• Complete externship
• Apply for entry-level positions
• Document procedures
• Build professional portfolio

Educational Programs in Colorado

Accredited Institutions

• Community College of Denver
• Pima Medical Institute
• Emily Griffith Technical College
• Red Rocks Community College
• Pickens Technical College

Program Selection Criteria

• Accreditation status
• Program cost
• Location convenience
• Clinical opportunities
• Job placement rates
• Schedule flexibility

Additional Resources

Professional Organizations

• Colorado Dental Association
• Colorado Dental Assistants Association
• American Dental Assistants Association (ADAA)
• Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies

State Regulatory Information

Colorado Dental Board
1560 Broadway, Suite 1350
Denver, CO 80202
Phone: (303) 894-7800
Website: dora.colorado.gov/dental

Continuing Education Resources

• Local dental societies
• Community colleges
• Online CE providers
• Professional conferences
• Manufacturer training programs

Career Advancement Opportunities

Specialization Areas

• Orthodontics
• Oral surgery
• Pediatric dentistry
• Periodontics
• Endodontics

Alternative Career Paths

• Dental office management
• Dental sales
• Dental assisting education
• Treatment coordination
• Insurance coordination

Tips for Success

Professional Development

1. Join professional associations
2. Attend continuing education courses
3. Network with dental professionals
4. Stay current with industry trends

Job Search Strategies

1. Create professional resume
2. Utilize dental job boards
3. Attend career fairs
4. Network through associations

Workplace Success

1. Develop communication skills
2. Practice time management
3. Maintain professional appearance
4. Focus on patient care

Unique Aspects of Colorado Practice

Geographic Considerations

• Mountain community opportunities
• Urban vs. rural practice differences
• Seasonal patient fluctuations
• Travel requirements

Cultural Competency

• Diverse patient population
• Language skills valuable
• Cultural sensitivity
• Community engagement

Financial Considerations

Education Costs

• Program tuition
• Books and supplies
• Certification fees
• Continuing education expenses

Financial Aid Options

• Federal student loans
• State grants
• Scholarships
• Work-study programs
• Employer tuition assistance

Maintaining Your Career

Professional Growth

1. Pursue advanced certifications
2. Develop specialized skills
3. Seek mentorship opportunities
4. Consider teaching opportunities

Continuing Education

• Stay current with regulations
• Learn new techniques
• Update technology skills
• Maintain certifications

Becoming a dental assistant in Colorado offers flexibility in career entry while providing clear pathways for advancement through expanded functions and certifications. The combination of reasonable entry requirements, opportunities for specialization, and strong demand makes it an attractive career choice. Success requires dedication to education, professional development, and a commitment to quality patient care.