How to Become a Dental Assistant in New Jersey: Complete Career Guide

New Jersey offers multiple pathways to becoming a dental assistant, with distinct requirements and opportunities for career advancement. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of entering and advancing in this rewarding healthcare field.

Career Overview and Job Prospects

The dental assisting field in New Jersey presents strong career opportunities:

• Employment Outlook: 7% growth projected through 2031 (BLS)
• Median Salary: $46,840 annually in New Jersey (as of 2023)
• Work Settings: Private dental practices, specialty clinics, dental schools, hospitals
• Benefits: Often includes health insurance, dental coverage, paid time off, retirement plans

Levels of Dental Assisting in New Jersey

New Jersey recognizes three distinct levels of dental assistants:

1. Dental Assistant (Unregistered)

• Limited to basic supportive duties
• Must work under direct supervision
• Cannot perform expanded functions or radiography

2. Registered Dental Assistant (RDA)

• Can perform additional duties under supervision
• Must complete state-approved education program
• Required to pass state examination
• Can perform radiography with proper certification

3. Limited Registered Dental Assistant in Orthodontics (LRDA)

• Specialized role in orthodontic practices
• Requires additional specific training
• Can perform orthodontic-specific procedures

Education and Training Requirements

Basic Requirements for All Levels

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Current CPR certification
• Infection control training
• Professional liability insurance

Educational Pathways

1. For Registered Dental Assistant (RDA)

• Complete a CODA-accredited dental assisting program
• Programs typically last 9-12 months
• Must include clinical experience
• Program must be approved by NJ State Board of Dentistry

1. For Limited Registered Dental Assistant in Orthodontics

• Complete approved orthodontic assistant training
• Minimum of 100 hours of didactic and clinical instruction
• Additional specialized coursework in orthodontic procedures

New Jersey State Registration Requirements

Registered Dental Assistant (RDA)

1. Education Requirements

• Graduate from approved dental assisting program OR
• Complete alternate pathway through work experience
• Complete approved infection control course

1. Examination Requirements

• Pass DANB CDA examination
• Pass New Jersey State Jurisprudence examination
• Complete practical examination if required

1. Additional Requirements

• Background check
• Drug screening
• Professional liability insurance
• Current CPR certification

National Certification Information

DANB Certification Requirements

1. Certified Dental Assistant (CDA)

• Pass three component exams:
  • General Chairside (GC)
  • Radiation Health and Safety (RHS)
  • Infection Control (ICE)
• Maintain current CPR certification
• Complete required continuing education

1. Maintaining Certification

• Annual renewal required
• Complete 12 continuing education credits annually
• Maintain current CPR certification
• Pay renewal fees

Steps to Become a Dental Assistant in New Jersey

1. Choose Your Path

• Decide between formal education or work experience route
• Research accredited programs in your area
• Consider long-term career goals

1. Complete Educational Requirements

• Enroll in accredited program OR
• Begin work experience pathway
• Obtain CPR certification
• Complete required infection control training

1. Obtain Necessary Certifications

• Pass DANB examinations
• Complete state-specific requirements
• Obtain radiography license if desired

1. Apply for State Registration

• Submit application to NJ State Board of Dentistry
• Complete background check
• Provide all required documentation
• Pay registration fees

1. Maintain Credentials

• Complete continuing education requirements
• Renew registration biannually
• Maintain current CPR certification
• Update professional liability insurance

Additional Resources

Educational Institutions in New Jersey

• Bergen Community College
• Camden County College
• Middlesex County College
• Rutgers School of Dental Medicine
• Essex County College

Professional Organizations

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

Regulatory Bodies

• New Jersey State Board of Dentistry
• Department of Consumer Affairs
• New Jersey Dental Practice Act

Financial Aid Resources

• Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
• New Jersey Higher Education Student Assistance Authority
• Professional association scholarships
• Workforce Development programs

Continuing Education Providers

• Local dental societies
• Community colleges
• Online education providers
• Professional dental organizations

Important Contacts

• NJ State Board of Dentistry
• Website: www.njconsumeraffairs.gov/den
• Phone: (973) 504-6405
• DANB
• Website: www.danb.org
• Phone: (800) 367-3262

Tips for Success

1. Network Actively

• Join professional associations
• Attend dental conferences
• Participate in continuing education events
• Connect with other dental professionals

1. Professional Development

• Consider specializing in orthodontics or other areas
• Pursue advanced certifications
• Stay updated on industry developments
• Maintain professional relationships

1. Career Advancement

• Seek mentorship opportunities
• Consider teaching or training roles
• Explore practice management positions
• Stay informed about new technologies

Remember to verify all requirements with the New Jersey State Board of Dentistry, as regulations and requirements may change over time.