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

As the dental healthcare field continues to grow, dental assisting offers a rewarding career path with strong employment prospects. This guide covers everything you need to know about becoming a dental assistant in Iowa, from education requirements to career advancement opportunities.

Career Overview and Job Prospects

Dental assistants in Iowa play a vital role in dental practices, performing both clinical and administrative duties. The career outlook is promising:

• Employment Growth: The dental assisting field is projected to grow 10% through 2031, faster than average for all occupations
• Median Salary: Iowa dental assistants earn between $35,000 and $45,000 annually, with experienced assistants earning more
• Work Environment: Most dental assistants work in private dental practices, though opportunities also exist in specialty practices, public health clinics, and dental education

Levels of Dental Assisting in Iowa

Iowa recognizes several levels of dental assistants:

1. Registered Dental Assistant (RDA)

• Basic level of registration required for most dental assisting positions
• Can perform basic supportive dental procedures under dentist supervision
• Must complete required training and registration process

2. Expanded Function Dental Assistant

• Can perform additional procedures after completing specific training
• Requires RDA status plus additional certifications
• Higher earning potential and increased responsibilities

Education and Training Requirements

Basic Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Must be at least 17 years old
• Current CPR certification

Educational Pathways

Option 1: Formal Education Program

• Complete a Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA)-accredited dental assisting program
• Programs typically take 9-12 months to complete
• Available at several Iowa community colleges
• Includes both classroom and clinical instruction

Option 2: On-the-Job Training

• Work under a licensed dentist for a minimum of 6 months
• Complete required training in infection control and dental radiography
• Pass required examinations

Steps to Become a Registered Dental Assistant in Iowa

1. Complete Educational Requirements

• Either through formal education or on-the-job training

1. Obtain Required Certifications

• Complete an infection control course
• Complete a dental radiography course
• Maintain current CPR certification

1. Pass Required Examinations

• Iowa Jurisprudence Examination
• Infection Control Examination
• Radiography Examination (if performing radiography duties)

1. Apply for Registration

• Submit application to Iowa Dental Board
• Pay required fees
• Provide proof of completed education and examinations
• Submit to background check

1. Maintain Registration

• Complete 20 hours of continuing education every two years
• Maintain current CPR certification
• Renew registration as required

National Certification

While not required in Iowa, many dental assistants choose to pursue national certification through the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB):

• Certified Dental Assistant (CDA)
• Nationally recognized certification
• Requires passing three component exams:
  • General Chairside Assisting
  • Radiation Health and Safety
  • Infection Control
• May lead to increased job opportunities and higher pay
• Some employers prefer or require CDA certification

Expanded Functions

After becoming an RDA, dental assistants can pursue additional certifications in expanded functions:

Level 1 Expanded Functions

• Taking preliminary impressions
• Applying cavity liners and bases
• Placing and removing dry socket medication
• Placing periodontal dressings

Level 2 Expanded Functions

• Placing and shaping composite restorations
• Taking final impressions
• Fabricating and removing provisional restorations

Each expanded function requires:

• Completion of Board-approved training course
• Demonstration of competency
• Additional certification from the Iowa Dental Board

Additional Resources

• Iowa Dental Board
• Official regulatory body for dental professionals
• Website: www.dentalboard.iowa.gov
• Provides registration information and requirements
• Iowa Dental Assistant Association
• Professional organization for dental assistants
• Offers networking and continuing education opportunities
• Advocates for dental assistant profession
• Dental Assisting National Board (DANB)
• Provides national certification
• Offers exam preparation resources
• Website: www.danb.org

Local Education Programs

Several Iowa institutions offer CODA-accredited dental assisting programs:

• Des Moines Area Community College
• Iowa Western Community College
• Kirkwood Community College
• Iowa Central Community College

Career Advancement Opportunities

Dental assistants can advance their careers through:

• Obtaining expanded function certifications
• Pursuing national certification
• Moving into office management roles
• Transitioning to dental hygiene with additional education
• Teaching in dental assisting programs
• Specializing in areas like orthodontics or oral surgery

Conclusion

Becoming a dental assistant in Iowa offers a stable career path with opportunities for growth and advancement. Whether choosing the formal education route or on-the-job training pathway, careful attention to state requirements and dedication to continuing education will help ensure success in this rewarding healthcare profession.