To become a dental assistant in Hawaii, you must obtain the appropriate education and experience.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook 2010-2011, dental assisting is slated to become one of the fastest growing occupations through the year 2018. With such growth, there are many opportunities for you to succeed in this industry. Although it is possible to become a dental assistant by simply applying for an open position with minimal education or experience, becoming a dental assistant in Hawaii usually requires that you obtain the appropriate education and earn your dental assistant license.
Instructions
1. Research the requirements to become a dental assistant in Hawaii. In the US, requirements, regulations and procedures are different in each state. Most states require that you complete the appropriate education and pass a state-administered test to obtain your dental assistant license. In Hawaii, you must graduate from an approved program from an accredited institution, before becoming a licensed dental assistant.
2. Obtain the required education. There are only two programs accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of the American Dental Association in Hawaii. In order to obtain your dental assistant designation, you must attend the dental program at Heald College -- Honolulu campus or Maui Community College. Programs range from two to four years long and prepare you for work as a dental assistant.
3. Become a Certified Dental Assistant (CDA). Once you have completed an approved dental assistant program at an accredited institution, you must pass the CDA examination. Alternatively, dental assistants with at least two years of full-time on-the-job training may qualify for a license without taking the exam. More information and a study guide for the examination can be found on the National Board of Dental Assisting website.
4. Register with your state dental assistant association. Upon receiving your CDA designation, you must register with the Hawaii Dental Hygienists' Association and pay your membership fee. Registering with this association proves to potential employers that you meet the requirements to successfully carry out the duties of a dental assistant in the state of Hawaii.
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