Dental assistant training, related to becoming a registered dental assistant (RDA), basically coincides with becoming a certified dental assistant (CDA). The same skills are taught, but some states require registration of a dental technician. However, there are some differences between them. Which one is right for you, it will depend on your government requirements and your personal choice.
What is a certified dental technician? A registered dental assistant is a dental technician who graduated from the American Dental Association (ADA) accredited dental program. The RDA must also pass a written and clinical exam. The exam is quite extensive, and the clinical part of the exam is sometimes monitored through the state dental card. A certified dental technician should only attend and undergo a dental care program. They may decide to take the exam, but they are not required to be certified. Several states require registration of all dental assistants.
How to become each of them? To become a registered dental technician, you must ensure that the dental care program you register is accredited by the American Dental Association. There are many programs, but there are some that are not. You must also pass a written and clinical exam that is monitored by the state dental board. To become a certified dental technician, you must find a dental care program that provides a certificate upon completion of the course. You can contact your local college, trade school or technical school to find out what programs they offer.
What is the difference? In most states, there is no difference between a registered and certified dental technician. Several states require their dental assistants to be registered. The fee is usually the same for both RDA and CDA. The duration of the program is usually the same. The biggest difference is that the RDA needs to pass a comprehensive exam, in addition to exams taken during their entire program. Some states do not require any education outside of a diploma of higher education. For more information on how to become a dental technician, contact your local college to find out what the requirements are in your state.
