What type of training does dental staff need?

Just like any other medical professional, those who work in dental care need a significant amount of training in order to perform their duties. That means dentists, as well as dental hygienists, need additional training and certification to do certain tasks. 

You may be wondering what it takes to become one of these dental professionals or what type of training your dentist needs to work on your teeth. A career in dentistry is a great way to ensure job security because people will always need to go to dentists to have cleanings and to fix any problems. If you like helping people and want to give them confidence in their smile, a career in the dental field may be the perfect choice for you. 

Dental hygienist 

If you aren’t quite sure that you want to go through the training for dentists, you may be considering a career as a dental hygienist. For this career, you can receive your training at community colleges, technical colleges, dental schools or universities. This training will take about two years and is considered an associate degree. A university-based dental hygiene program will likely require at least another two years of schooling, but it allows you the ability to teach and/or do research. 

Though requirements typically depend on the school, most will just need a high school diploma. Once you have completed the appropriate educational requirements, you will then be required to pass the National Board of Dental Hygiene Examination and a state-authorized licensure examination. Once these have been completed, you can receive your license and use “R.D.H” after your name! 

Dentist

If you are sure that you want to go through the training for dentists, you can begin looking at what it takes to get licenses to practice dental work. To become a dentist you will need to first complete a bachelor’s degree in a related field of study, which typically would include chemistry or biology. In order to then move on to dental school, you must pass the Dental Admission Test (DAT). 

Once you have passed the DAT, you can choose your dental school, which once completed will leave you with a doctorate in dentistry. The two degrees that can be earned are a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or a Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry (DMD). These two degrees mean the same thing and have the same curriculum requirements, it is up to the university to determine which degree is awarded. Be sure that the dental school that you choose is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA). 

After you have completed your education, you will need to become licensed. Although it varies by state, all states will require the completion of dental school and the passing of a written and clinical exam. If you want to specialize, it may require more training for dentists or a residency with another dentist in that area. If you are looking to administer minimal sedation, you will need to complete a certification course. 

Becoming a dentist is a great career choice for many people. The dental industry focuses on helping people be more confident in their smiles and lead overall more healthy lives. If you have questions on dental training or minimal sedation courses, contact Midwest Sedation Consultants today and we can help you further your dental education and career!