How to Become a Dental Assistant in Ohio: Complete Career Guide

Ohio offers multiple pathways to becoming a dental assistant with specific state requirements and opportunities for career advancement. This comprehensive guide will help you understand how to enter and progress in the dental assisting field in the Buckeye State.

Career Overview and Job Prospects

The dental assisting field in Ohio shows strong potential:

• Employment Outlook: 7% growth projected through 2031 (BLS)
• Median Salary: $41,890 annually in Ohio (as of 2023)
• Work Settings: Private practices, dental clinics, hospitals, specialty offices
• Benefits: Typically includes health insurance, dental coverage, paid time off, retirement plans

Levels of Dental Assisting in Ohio

Ohio recognizes several levels of dental assistants:

1. Basic Qualified Personnel (BQP)

• Entry-level position
• On-the-job training
• Basic supportive duties
• Direct supervision required

2. Certified Assistant (CODA/EFDA)

• Expanded functions permitted
• Additional certification required
• Higher responsibility level
• Increased salary potential

3. Expanded Function Dental Auxiliary (EFDA)

• Highest level of practice
• Can perform restorative procedures
• Additional education required
• Maximum earning potential

Education and Training Requirements

Basic Requirements for All Levels

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

Educational Pathways

1. Basic Qualified Personnel

• High school diploma
• On-the-job training
• Basic dental knowledge
• CPR certification

1. Certified Assistant

• Graduate from CODA-accredited program
• Pass national examination
• Complete state requirements
• Clinical experience

1. EFDA Program

• Complete approved EFDA program
• Additional clinical training
• Pass state examination
• Maintain certification

Ohio State Requirements

Basic Qualified Personnel

1. Required Training

• Dental terminology
• Basic chair-side skills
• Infection control
• Radiography certification (if taking x-rays)

1. Documentation

• Employment verification
• Training records
• CPR certification
• OSHA compliance

Expanded Function Dental Auxiliary

1. Educational Requirements

• Complete approved EFDA program
• Minimum clinical hours
• Laboratory experience
• Didactic coursework

1. Examination Requirements

• Pass state EFDA examination
• Complete practical evaluation
• Jurisprudence examination
• Maintain continuing education

National Certification Information

DANB Certification

1. Required Components

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

1. Maintenance Requirements

• Annual renewal
• Continuing education credits
• Current CPR certification
• Professional development

Steps to Become a Dental Assistant in Ohio

1. Choose Career Path

• Determine desired level
• Research programs
• Consider long-term goals
• Evaluate financial options

1. Complete Education

• Select appropriate program
• Complete required coursework
• Gain clinical experience
• Document training hours

1. Obtain Certifications

• Pass required examinations
• Complete state requirements
• Obtain necessary permits
• Maintain current CPR

1. Gain Experience

• Complete internship/externship
• Build clinical skills
• Document procedures
• Develop professional network

1. Professional Development

• Join professional organizations
• Attend continuing education
• Stay current with technology
• Network with colleagues

Additional Resources

Educational Institutions in Ohio

• Columbus State Community College
• Sinclair Community College
• Cuyahoga Community College
• Cincinnati State Technical College
• Stark State College

Professional Organizations

• Ohio Dental Assistants Association
• American Dental Assistants Association (ADAA)
• Ohio Dental Association
• Local dental societies

Online Resources

• Ohio State Dental Board: www.dental.ohio.gov
• DANB website: www.danb.org
• ADAA website: www.adaausa.org

Financial Aid Options

• Federal student aid (FAFSA)
• Ohio state grants
• Professional organization scholarships
• Workforce development programs

Important Contacts

• Ohio State Dental Board
• Phone: (614) 466-2580
• Email: [email protected]
• Ohio Dental Assistants Association
• Professional networking
• Continuing education
• Career resources

Career Advancement Opportunities

1. Specialization Areas

• Orthodontics
• Pediatric dentistry
• Oral surgery
• Periodontics
• Practice management

1. Professional Growth

• Advanced certifications
• Leadership roles
• Teaching opportunities
• Consulting positions

1. Additional Skills

• Practice management
• Technology expertise
• Patient education
• Treatment coordination

Tips for Success

1. Professional Development

• Maintain certifications
• Attend workshops
• Read industry publications
• Follow technology trends

1. Clinical Excellence

• Practice proper techniques
• Document procedures
• Seek feedback
• Maintain high standards

1. Career Management

• Set clear goals
• Track achievements
• Build professional portfolio
• Seek mentorship

Additional Considerations

Technology Skills

• Dental software proficiency
• Digital radiography
• Electronic health records
• Practice management systems

Soft Skills

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

Workplace Safety

• OSHA compliance
• Infection control
• Emergency procedures
• Risk management

Remember to verify all current requirements with the Ohio State Dental Board, as regulations and requirements may change over time. The board’s website and staff can provide the most up-to-date information on requirements and processes.