A career as a dental assistant offers stability, professional growth, and the satisfaction of helping others maintain their oral health. But if you’re wondering how to become a dental assistant, you’re not alone. Many aspiring healthcare professionals are drawn to this fast-paced, people-centered career, but aren’t sure where to begin.
This blog will walk you through each step of becoming a dental assistant in Canada, from understanding the required training and certifications to knowing what employers are looking for when you apply.
How to Become a Dental Assistant Step 1: Understand the Role
Before you pursue training, it’s important to understand what a dental assistant does. Dental assistants support dentists during procedures, prepare equipment, manage patient records, and educate patients about oral hygiene.
In many provinces, Level II dental assistants, also known as intra oral dental assistants, may take impressions, polish teeth, and apply fluoride under supervision. This combination of clinical and administrative work makes dental assisting a rewarding and dynamic role, ideal for individuals who enjoy technical tasks and patient care.
Step 2: Meet the Basic Qualifications
So, how do you become a dental assistant in Canada? The first step is to meet the educational prerequisites. Most programs require:
- A high school diploma or equivalent
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- An interest in health sciences and hands-on work
These foundational traits will help you succeed in the classroom and your future workplace.
Step 3: Complete Comprehensive Training
One of the most essential dental assistant job requirements is completing a comprehensive dental assistant program. The dental assistant diploma offered by the Canadian Academy of Dental Hygiene (CADH) provides students with knowledge in both theory and practical skills.
This intra oral dental assistant training includes:
- Dental Practice and Tooth Morphology
- Microbiology, Infection Control & Safety in Dentistry
- Radiography and dental materials
- Client Information and Assessment
- Clinical placements for real-world experience
The CADH program equips students with everything they need to become Level II certified in Ontario.
Step 4: Earn Certification (Where Required)
A dental assistant in Canada must be certified to practice. In Ontario, graduates of our Intra Oral Dental Assistant program can register with the Ontario Dental Assistants Association (ODAA) and write the National Dental Assisting Examining Board (NDAEB) exam.
Certification requirements may vary slightly by province, but passing the NDAEB exam is a common step across the country for those entering the profession.
Step 5: Build a Resume and Apply for Jobs
After completing your training and certification, it’s time to apply for jobs. Knowing what to highlight on your resume is important. Employers often look for the following dental assistant qualifications:
- Completion of a comprehensive diploma program
- CPR and First Aid certification
- Strong communication skills
- Attention to detail and a positive attitude
- Clinical experience through placements
CADH students graduate with the confidence to meet these expectations and stand out in interviews.
Your Future as a Dental Assistant in Canada
Now that you know how to become a dental assistant, you can begin planning your path toward a rewarding and stable career. Demand for qualified dental assistants continues to grow in Canada, with opportunities in general practices, orthodontics, oral surgery, and more.
Whether you’re just out of high school or looking for a new professional direction, CADH’s intra oral dental assistant training program offers the training and support to get you there.
Are you looking for a comprehensive dental assistant diploma program?
Contact CADH for more information.
