Have you ever thought about pursuing a career in healthcare but do not want to spend years in school? Becoming a dental assistant might be your perfect path. Dental assistants are vital in helping dentists provide top-notch patient care, and the demand for this profession is increasing. Dental assisting offers an exciting opportunity to join the healthcare industry without a lengthy educational commitment, whether you are just out of high school or looking to switch careers.
This blog will explain what a dental assistant is, the steps involved in becoming one in Alberta, and how the Dental Assisting Diploma program at Reeves College can help you get started.
A dental assistant is a trained healthcare professional who works closely with dentists to provide patient care, assist during procedures, and manage various administrative tasks. As a dental assistant, you may prepare patients for treatments, take X-rays, sterilize equipment, maintain patient records, or even educate patients on proper oral hygiene techniques. Dental assistants often act as the dentist's right hand, ensuring that dental procedures run smoothly and efficiently.
Dental assistants can work in various settings, including private dental practices, clinics, hospitals, and public health organizations. The duties of a dental assistant can vary depending on the workplace, but here are some of the key responsibilities you can expect:
Dental assistants are in high demand, with the job market projected to grow significantly in the coming years. According to the Canadian Job Bank, dental assistants are in demand in provinces like Alberta, where healthcare needs continue to rise. Now, let us dive into how you can become a dental assistant in Alberta.
Becoming a dental assistant in Alberta is a structured process regulated by the College of Alberta Dental Assistants (CADA). You must meet specific educational, certification, and licensure requirements to work in this field. Below are the essential steps to becoming a dental assistant in Alberta:
The first step to becoming a dental assistant in Alberta is completing an accredited dental assisting program. These programs are typically one year long and are designed to provide students with theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience in dental care. The curriculum often includes courses on:
Most dental assistant programs also include a clinical placement, allowing you to gain real-world experience in a dental setting. This hands-on component is crucial for developing the skills needed to succeed in this role.
After completing your dental assistant program, the next step is passing the National Dental Assisting Examining Board (NDAEB) written exam. This exam assesses your knowledge and competency in dental assisting and is required for Alberta registration.
The NDAEB exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions covering several topics, including dental sciences, clinical procedures, patient records, and professional conduct. You will have four hours to complete the exam, and a minimum grade of 60% is required to pass. The exam is held four times per year in various cities across Alberta, and you can retake it up to three times if necessary.
In 2024, graduates from Reeves College's Edmonton South campus achieved a 100% pass rate on the NDAEB exam, demonstrating the effectiveness of their training program. *
After securing your liability insurance, you can apply for registration with the College of Alberta Dental Assistants (CADA). Registration is mandatory for anyone who wants to work as a dental assistant in Alberta. The registration process includes submitting your dental assisting diploma, NDAEB exam results, proof of insurance, a criminal record check, and other necessary documents. You must also pay an assessment fee and an annual registration fee.
Once your application is approved, you will receive your dental assistant license, allowing you to start your career in Alberta's healthcare sector officially.
With your education, certification, and registration complete, you are ready to enter the job market. Be sure to update your resume to include your dental assisting diploma, NDAEB certification, and relevant skills or experience. Tailor your resume to highlight your qualifications for the dental assistant positions you are applying for and remember to mention your hands-on experience from clinical placements.
In Alberta, dental assistants are highly sought after, and over 92% of graduates from Reeves College's Dental Assisting program found employment within months of completing their studies. **
One of the best ways to kickstart your journey to becoming a dental assistant is by enrolling in a comprehensive dental assisting program like the one offered by Reeves College. This program is designed to provide students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the fast-paced dental industry.
Here is what you can expect from the Dental Assisting Diploma at Reeves College:
Reeves College is known for its career-focused education, helping students acquire the practical skills they need to succeed in their chosen fields. The college's Dental Assisting Diploma is a well-rounded program that prepares graduates to excel in Alberta's growing healthcare sector.
By enrolling in Reeves College's program, you can benefit from small class sizes, personalized instruction, and access to employment services that will help you transition seamlessly from student to professional dental assistant.
Becoming a dental assistant in Alberta is rewarding and straightforward if you follow the required steps. From completing an accredited dental assistant program to passing the NDAEB exam and obtaining professional licensure, the path to becoming a dental assistant is laid out. With the growing demand for healthcare professionals, now is an excellent time to pursue this career.
If you are looking for a program that provides hands-on training, expert instruction, and a proven record of accomplishment of success, Reeves College's Dental Assisting Diploma could be the perfect choice. With a 100% pass rate on the NDAEB exam in 2024 and over 92% of graduates finding employment, Reeves College is ready to help you start your career as a dental assistant. *
Take the first step toward a fulfilling career in healthcare by enrolling in a Dental Assisting program today!
* NDAEB Exam Report, Reeves Colleges Edmonton South, June 2024
** Reeves College employment report, Jan-Dec 2023