September 24, 2024
Dental Assistants play a crucial role in the dental healthcare system, helping dentists perform their work more efficiently while providing patients with a positive experience. They are a vital part of the dental team and are responsible for various clinical and administrative duties. With the demand for dental professionals on the rise, becoming a Dental Assistant in Canada is a promising career choice, offering job stability, growth opportunities, and competitive wages. In this guide, we'll walk you through what does a dental assistant do and how to become a Dental Assistant in Canada.
What Is a Dental Assistant?
A Dental Assistant is a versatile healthcare professional who supports dentists and dental hygienists in providing oral care to patients. The role requires a blend of clinical and administrative skills, making it an integral part of a dental office. Dental Assistants perform tasks such as preparing patients for treatments, assisting the dentist during procedures, sterilizing equipment, and handling various office duties such as scheduling and billing.
In Canada, Dental Assistants are regulated professionals in most provinces, and certification or licensing is often required to practice. For those aspiring to become Certified Dental Assistants (CDAs), completing a recognized dental assisting program and passing the National Dental Assisting Examining Board (NDAEB) exam are essential steps.
What Does a Dental Assistant Do?
Dental Assistants handle a wide range of responsibilities that fall into both clinical and administrative categories. Here are some of the critical tasks they perform:
Assisting During Procedures
Dental Assistants help dentists during procedures by handling instruments, suctioning, and ensuring the patient's mouth remains dry. They prepare the treatment area, ensuring all necessary tools are ready for use, and assist in various treatments such as fillings, crowns, and extractions.
Preparing Patients
One of the primary roles of a Dental Assistant is to ensure that patients feel comfortable and informed. They explain procedures, answer patient questions, and ensure the patient is relaxed before and after treatments.
Taking and Processing X-rays
Dental assistants are often responsible for taking dental radiographs (X-rays), which help diagnose dental conditions. They must understand radiographic techniques and safety protocols to ensure accurate imaging and patient safety.
Infection Control and Sterilization
Maintaining a sterile environment is crucial in a dental office. Dental Assistants follow strict infection control guidelines to sterilize instruments and equipment, minimizing the risk of infection for patients and staff.
Administrative Duties
In addition to clinical tasks, Dental Assistants often handle administrative duties such as scheduling appointments, maintaining patient records, processing billing, and handling insurance claims. They ensure that the office operates efficiently and that patients have a seamless experience from start to finish.
Patient Education
Dental Assistants are vital in educating patients about oral hygiene and post-treatment care. They provide instructions on how to maintain good oral health and assist in explaining treatment plans.
How to Become a Dental Assistant in Canada
If you're considering a career as a Dental Assistant in Canada, here are the key steps to follow:
Complete a Dental Assisting Program
To become a dental assistant, you must complete a recognized dental assisting program. These programs typically take one to two years to complete and cover various topics, including dental anatomy, radiography, infection control, and chairside assisting techniques. Programs like those offered at CDI College provide theoretical knowledge and practical experience, preparing students for certification.
Pass the NDAEB Exam
After completing a dental assisting program, you must pass the National Dental Assisting Examining Board (NDAEB) exam to become a Certified Dental Assistant (CDA). This exam assesses your knowledge and competency in dental assisting, ensuring that you meet national standards. In provinces like British Columbia and Ontario, passing the NDAEB exam is mandatory for certification and Registration with provincial dental regulatory bodies.
Seek Registration (if required)
In some provinces, Dental Assistants must be registered with a provincial regulatory body, such as the Ontario Dental Assistants Association (ODAA) or the BC College of Oral Health Professionals (BCCOHP). Registration typically requires proof of successful completion of a dental assisting program and the NDAEB exam.
Gain Experience
Once certified, Dental Assistants can work in various settings, including dental offices, hospitals, and specialty clinics. Hands-on experience in these environments will help refine your skills and expand your career opportunities.
Dental Assisting Diploma by CDI College
CDI College offers a comprehensive Dental Assisting diploma program to prepare students for a successful career as a Certified Dental Assistant. Here are some highlights of the program:
Comprehensive Curriculum
The program ensures that students are well-prepared for the diverse responsibilities of a Dental Assistant. Courses include chairside assisting, radiology, infection control, dental materials management, and dental office management.
Hands-on Training
CDI College strongly emphasizes practical experience, with students completing 615 hours of clinical practice. This includes two mandatory practical placements at local dental clinics (175 hours) and 440 hours of hands-on training at the college's on-site clinic. This real-world experience is invaluable in helping students build confidence and competence in their skills.
NDAEB Exam Preparation
The CDI College program is designed to prepare students for the National Dental Assisting Examining Board (NDAEB) exam. With a passing rate of 88% to 90%, CDI College graduates from all over Canada consistently perform well on the exam, thanks to the rigorous training and comprehensive support provided. *
Job Placement Success
In 2023, over 90% of CDI College's Dental Assisting graduates secured employment in the dental industry. With substantial industry connections and career services support, CDI College helps students confidently transition from the classroom to the workforce. **
Wages and Job Outlook for Dental Assistants in Canada
One of the most attractive aspects of a career as a Dental Assistant is the competitive salary and positive job outlook. According to recent data, the average hourly wage for Dental Assistants in Canada is as follows:
Low: $20.00 per hour
Median: $25.44 per hour
High: $33.00 per hour
These wages can vary based on location, experience, and specialization, with some experienced Dental Assistants earning even higher salaries through additional certifications or specialized roles.***
Job demand for Dental Assistants is strong across Canada, with healthcare professionals in high demand due to an aging population and increased awareness of oral health. Dental Assistants can work in various settings, including general dental practices, orthodontic offices, and hospitals. Becoming a Dental Assistant in Canada is a rewarding and fulfilling career choice that offers job stability, competitive wages, and growth opportunities. Dental Assistants are essential members of the dental team, providing vital support to dentists and ensuring that patients receive excellent care. You can embark on a successful career in this field with the proper education and training.
CDI College's Dental Assisting diploma program equips you with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in this profession. CDI College provides everything you need to become a Certified Dental Assistant, from hands-on clinical training to exam preparation and job placement support. If you're ready to start your journey in dental healthcare, enroll in CDI College's Dental Assisting program and take the first step toward a fulfilling career.
* NDAEB Exam Report, June 2024.
** CDI College Employment Report 2023
