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

Dental assisting offers a rewarding career path in Oklahoma’s growing healthcare sector. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about starting your career as a dental assistant in the Sooner State.

Career Prospects and Job Outlook

The dental assisting field in Oklahoma shows promising growth potential:

• Median salary: $37,520 per year (2023 data)
• Expected job growth: 7% through 2032
• High demand in both urban areas (Oklahoma City, Tulsa) and rural communities
• Opportunities in private practices, dental clinics, and specialty offices

Levels of Dental Assisting in Oklahoma

Oklahoma recognizes several levels of dental assistants:

1. Dental Assistant (Basic)

• Can perform basic supportive dental procedures under direct supervision
• No formal education required
• Must work under direct supervision of a licensed dentist

2. Expanded Function Dental Assistant (EFDA)

• Can perform additional procedures including:
• Coronal polishing
• Topical fluoride application
• Sealant application
• Requires additional certification and training

3. Certified Dental Assistant (CDA)

• National certification through the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB)
• Recognized nationwide
• Higher salary potential and more job opportunities

Education and Training Requirements

Basic Dental Assistant

• High school diploma or equivalent
• On-the-job training
• CPR certification
• Radiation safety course required for taking X-rays

Expanded Function Dental Assistant

• Complete a CODA-accredited dental assisting program, OR
• Minimum one year of chair-side assisting experience
• Complete specific expanded function courses
• Pass required examinations for each expanded function

Certified Dental Assistant

• Graduate from a CODA-accredited dental assisting program, OR
• Complete minimum 3,500 hours of dental assisting experience
• Pass the DANB CDA examination

Steps to Become a Dental Assistant in Oklahoma

1. Complete Educational Requirements

• Obtain high school diploma or GED
• Consider enrolling in a CODA-accredited program
• Programs typically take 9-12 months to complete

1. Obtain Required Certifications

• CPR certification
• Radiation safety certification
• Dental sealant certification (if pursuing expanded functions)
• Coronal polishing certification (if pursuing expanded functions)

1. Gain Clinical Experience

• Complete required clinical hours through your program
• Consider internships or externships
• Entry-level positions provide valuable experience

1. Pursue National Certification (Optional but Recommended)

• Register for DANB CDA examination
• Complete required continuing education
• Maintain certification through renewal requirements

1. Apply for Positions

• Create a professional resume
• Join professional organizations
• Network within the dental community

DANB Certification Information

The Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) examination consists of three components:

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

Requirements:

• Graduation from an accredited program OR equivalent work experience
• Current CPR certification
• Examination fee: Approximately $450
• Passing score required on all three components

Continuing Education Requirements

• 12 continuing education credits annually for DANB certification maintenance
• Additional requirements for expanded function permits
• CPR certification renewal every two years

Educational Programs in Oklahoma

Accredited dental assisting programs are available at:

• Tulsa Community College
• Rose State College
• Moore Norman Technology Center
• Francis Tuttle Technology Center
• Metro Technology Centers

Professional Organizations and Resources

• Oklahoma Dental Association (ODA)
• Oklahoma Dental Assistants Association (ODAA)
• Dental Assisting National Board (DANB)
• Oklahoma Board of Dentistry

Additional Resources

Career Development

• Oklahoma CareerTech (www.okcareertech.org)
• Oklahoma Works (www.oklahomaworks.gov)
• Oklahoma Dental Board (www.ok.gov/dentistry)

Financial Aid Options

• Federal Student Aid
• Oklahoma Promise
• Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) funding
• Tribal education assistance programs

Salary and Benefits

Entry-level dental assistants in Oklahoma typically start at $28,000-$32,000 annually. With experience and additional certifications, salaries can reach $45,000-$50,000+. Benefits often include:

• Health insurance
• Dental coverage
• Paid time off
• Retirement plans
• Continuing education assistance

Tips for Success

1. Join professional organizations for networking opportunities
2. Maintain all certifications and complete continuing education on time
3. Consider specializing in areas like orthodontics or oral surgery
4. Stay current with new dental technologies and procedures
5. Develop strong communication and interpersonal skills
6. Consider pursuing additional certifications for career advancement

Becoming a dental assistant in Oklahoma offers a stable career path with opportunities for growth and advancement. Whether you choose to pursue basic certification or advanced credentials, the field provides rewarding opportunities to help others while earning a competitive salary.