Pennsylvania Dental Assistant Requirements

If you’re looking for a rewarding career in the dental field, becoming a dental assistant in Pennsylvania is a great choice. Assistants play a vital role in dental offices, helping with patient care, sterilization, assisting the dentist, and handling administrative duties. 

In Pennsylvania, you do not need to hold a state license or certification for basic dental assisting duties. However, if you want to perform expanded functions you will need to get additional training and certification.

There are two types of dental assistants in Pennsylvania:

1. Entry Level Dental Assistant: 

• No formal education or certification is required 
• On-the-job training is common 
• Performs basic chairside assisting, sterilization, and admin work

2. Expanded Function Dental Assistant

• Requires state certification to perform expanded duties
• Can place fillings, apply sealants, and take x-rays (may require additional certification) 
• Must complete an approved EFDA training program

Becoming a dental assistant in Pennsylvania is a fantastic career choice with plenty of job opportunities and room for growth. Whether you start with on-the-job training or pursue an EFDA certification, there are many ways to advance your career in the dental field.