Choosing the Right Dental Assistant Certification Exam in Texas: Key Considerations

 So, you've decided to pursue a dental assistant certification in Texas, and you're ready to take the next step. Before you dive in, it's essential to understand the various dental assistant requirements in Texas and the different exams available for certification. In this blog post, we'll cover essential aspects to consider when choosing the right dental assistant certification exam in Texas and share useful tips to help you make an informed decision.

Understanding Texas Dental Assistant Certification Requirements

Whether you're just starting in your career or looking to progress, meeting dental assistant requirements in Texas is crucial. Before you sign up for any dental assistant certification exam, make sure you have completed the following prerequisites:

  1. Education: Complete a Texas State Board of Dental Examiners (TSBDE)-approved dental assistant program or obtain a degree equivalent to a TSBDE-approved program. 

  2. Radiology Training: Obtain a TSBDE-approved basic radiology course to take x-rays as a dental assistant in Texas. 

  3. CPR Certification: Acquire a valid CPR certification from an approved provider to work as a dental assistant in Texas.

Examining Dental Assistant Certification Exams in Texas

There are two main certifications you can acquire to become a dental assistant in Texas: the Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) certification and the Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) certification.

Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) Certification

To become a Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) in Texas, you must:

  • Complete a TSBDE-approved dental assistant program.

  • Pass a TSBDE-approved jurisprudence exam.

  • Obtain a valid CPR certification.

Once these requirements are met, a dental assistant license in Texas will be issued.

Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) Certification

To become a Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) with expanded duties, you must:

  • Complete a TSBDE-approved dental assistant program.

  • Pass the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) exam, consisting of exams in General Chairside Assisting (GC), Infection Control (ICE), and Radiation Health and Safety (RHS).

  • Obtain a valid CPR certification.

Once you've obtained a passing score on the DANB exam and completed the prerequisites, you'll receive the CDA certification.

Key Factors to Consider

When choosing between the RDA and CDA certifications, consider the following factors:

  • Employment Opportunities: Determine which certification is more valuable in your local job market and whether expanded duties are relevant to your career goals.

  • Cost: Compare the costs of taking the different certification exams, keeping in mind possible long-term benefits.

  • Additional Training: Examine whether obtaining a more advanced certification may require additional training or education.

  • Personal Career Goals: Reflect on your long-term career goals and choose the certification that aligns best with your plans as a dental professional.

At Dental Assistant School Dallas, we offer comprehensive training programs that prepare you for both RDA and CDA certifications. Our curriculum is designed to provide you with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in your dental assisting career.
Location: Richardson, TX 75080, USA

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