Registered Dental Assistant: The Next Level in Dental Assisting
Many people have heard of dental assistants, but not everyone knows what a registered dental assistant is or what they do. If you’re considering a career in dental assisting and are looking to advance your potential in the field, you might consider becoming a registered dental assistant (RDA). In this piece, we’ll explore what an RDA is, the steps to becoming one, and how this role can impact your career.
Understanding the Role of a Registered Dental Assistant
A registered dental assistant, often referred to as an RDA, is a dental assistant who has gone a step further in their education and training to gain registration. They perform similar tasks to dental assistants but are qualified to do more due to the additional certification.
Registered Dental Assistants, like all dental assistants, work under the supervision of a dentist and are integral to a smoothly running dental office. They are typically responsible for a wide range of duties, both clinical and administrative, to assist the dentist and ensure the comfort of the patient. RDAs can be seen working side-by-side with dentists during procedures, taking X-rays, preparing and sterilizing instruments, and educating patients on oral care.
However, RDAs often have expanded functions compared to regular dental assistants, which can depend on the specific regulations of the state they work in. These expanded duties may include applying topical anesthetics, polishing teeth, placing and removing dental dams, and other restorative and preventive procedures.
The Path to Becoming a Registered Dental Assistant
Becoming an RDA generally involves a few steps, which may vary slightly depending on your state’s specific requirements.
- Education: The first step is to complete a dental assistant training program, such as the one offered by 90 Day Dental Assistant. This program provides a comprehensive understanding of the essential tasks and duties of a dental assistant.
- Experience: After completing an educational program, gaining practical experience in a dental office setting is often required. This experience can be gained through an externship or working as a dental assistant.
- Examination: The next step is passing a state or national examination. This exam typically covers the topics learned during the educational program and practical experience, testing your knowledge and skills in dental assisting.
- Registration: Once you’ve passed the exam, you can apply for registration in your state. This often involves submitting proof of your education, examination results, and any other required documentation.
The Benefits of Becoming an RDA
Becoming an RDA offers several advantages. With the additional training and certification, RDAs often have more job opportunities available to them and may be eligible for higher-paying positions. Furthermore, RDAs can often perform additional duties, which can make the job more varied and interesting.
Moreover, becoming an RDA demonstrates a commitment to the profession and a higher level of competency, which can be attractive to potential employers and can contribute to career advancement.
Start Your Journey with 90 Day Dental Assistant
If you’re considering a career as a dental assistant and want to take your career to the next level, consider becoming a Registered Dental Assistant. At 90 Day Dental Assistant, our comprehensive online dental assistant program provides you with the knowledge and skills you need to begin your journey in dental assisting.
We understand the importance of convenience and flexibility when it comes to learning. That’s why our program is self-paced and fully accessible online, allowing you to fit your education around your life. Furthermore, we are committed to our students’ success, offering assistance with resume writing, job placement, and externship coordination.
Start your journey towards becoming a registered dental assistant with 90 Day Dental Assistant. Enroll now and take the first step towards a rewarding career in dental healthcare.
A Career that Makes a Difference
By choosing to become a registered dental assistant, you’re not just opting for a job — you’re embarking on a career that truly makes a difference. Dental health is a crucial component of overall well-being, and RDAs play a significant role in maintaining it.
As an RDA, you’ll be instrumental in providing patients with a positive dental experience, whether you’re comforting a nervous patient, educating people about proper oral care, or aiding the dentist during complex procedures. Your role is essential in ensuring patients feel cared for and understood, which can greatly impact their attitude toward dental health and their willingness to receive necessary care.
A Profession with Room to Grow
A career as a registered dental assistant also offers plenty of room for professional growth and advancement. The field of dentistry is constantly evolving, with new technologies and techniques emerging regularly. As an RDA, you’ll have opportunities to continue learning and expanding your skills to stay at the forefront of the industry.
Plus, the additional certification and skills you acquire as an RDA can open doors to other roles within the dental field, should you decide to further your education in the future. Whether you choose to specialize in a certain area, move into dental office management, or even pursue further education to become a dental hygienist or dentist, being an RDA can serve as a strong foundation.
A Commitment to Quality Care
At 90 Day Dental Assistant, we share your commitment to delivering quality care. Our program is designed to thoroughly prepare you for a successful career as a dental assistant and provide a strong foundation should you decide to pursue becoming an RDA.
Our curriculum covers a broad range of topics, from the basics of dental assisting to more specialized areas, ensuring our students have a well-rounded education. We also incorporate real-world applications, offering externships and job placement assistance to help our students transition seamlessly into their professional roles.
Moreover, we recognize that everyone’s learning journey is unique, so we provide a flexible, self-paced program that allows our students to learn at their own speed, fitting their education around their lifestyle.
Take the Next Step with 90 Day Dental Assistant
Choosing a career in dental assisting and taking it to the next level by becoming a registered dental assistant is a decision that opens the door to a fulfilling, impactful profession. At 90 Day Dental Assistant, we’re here to guide you every step of the way, from your initial education to job placement.
Enroll now, and take the first step towards a rewarding career in dental healthcare as a registered dental assistant. Your future in dental assisting starts here!