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Washington State Department Of Health Dental Assistant Registration

  • Overview of Washington State Department of Health Dental Assistant Registration
  • Eligibility Requirements for Dental Assistant Registration
  • Application Process for Dental Assistant Registration
  • Examination Requirements for Dental Assistant Registration
  • Renewal Process for Dental Assistant Registration
  • Continuing Education Requirements for Dental Assistant Registration
  • Scope of Practice for Registered Dental Assistants in Washington State
  • Complaints and Disciplinary Actions for Dental Assistants
  • Resources for Dental Assistants in Washington State
  • Frequently Asked Questions about Dental Assistant Registration

Overview of Washington State Department of Health Dental Assistant Registration

The Washington State Department of Health (DOH) is responsible for regulating and licensing dental assistants in the state. The DOH ensures that all registered dental assistants meet the necessary education and training requirements to safely assist dentists in providing quality patient care. Dental assistants in Washington State must be registered with the DOH before they can practice as a dental assistant.

Eligibility Requirements for Dental Assistant Registration

To be eligible for dental assistant registration in Washington State, applicants must be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or equivalent. Additionally, applicants must have completed a dental assistant education program accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) or have equivalent education and training. Applicants who have completed a CODA-accredited dental assisting program are eligible for registration without taking an examination.

Application Process for Dental Assistant Registration

The application process for dental assistant registration in Washington State involves submitting a completed application form along with the required documents and fees. The application form can be downloaded from the DOH website and requires applicants to provide personal information, education and training details, and employment history. Applicants must also submit proof of completion of a CODA-accredited dental assisting program or equivalent education and training.

Examination Requirements for Dental Assistant Registration

Applicants who have not completed a CODA-accredited dental assisting program or equivalent education and training must pass an examination to be eligible for dental assistant registration in Washington State. The DOH accepts two examinations for dental assistant registration: the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) exam and the Washington State Dental Association (WSDA) Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) exam. Both exams cover topics such as infection control, dental materials, and patient care.

Renewal Process for Dental Assistant Registration

Registered dental assistants in Washington State must renew their registration every year by submitting a renewal application and paying the required fees. The renewal application can be completed online or by mail and requires dental assistants to provide information about their continuing education and employment history during the previous year. The DOH also requires dental assistants to complete a minimum of 7 hours of continuing education each year to maintain their registration.

Continuing Education Requirements for Dental Assistant Registration

Dental assistants in Washington State are required to complete a minimum of 7 hours of continuing education each year to maintain their registration. The DOH accepts continuing education courses offered by accredited providers such as the American Dental Association (ADA) or the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD). Continuing education courses may cover topics such as infection control, radiology, and dental materials.

Scope of Practice for Registered Dental Assistants in Washington State

Registered dental assistants in Washington State are allowed to perform a wide range of duties under the supervision of a licensed dentist. These duties include taking dental radiographs, preparing patients for treatment, assisting the dentist during procedures, and educating patients on oral health care. However, dental assistants in Washington State are not allowed to diagnose or treat patients or perform any procedures that require a license.

Complaints and Disciplinary Actions for Dental Assistants

The DOH investigates complaints against dental assistants and takes disciplinary action when necessary to protect the public. Complaints can be filed with the DOH by patients, employers, or other individuals who believe that a dental assistant has violated the state's dental practice act. Disciplinary actions can include fines, probation, suspension, or revocation of the dental assistant's registration.

Resources for Dental Assistants in Washington State

Dental assistants in Washington State can find a variety of resources on the DOH website to help them navigate the registration process, stay up-to-date on continuing education requirements, and learn about their scope of practice. The DOH also provides information on complaint procedures and disciplinary actions that may be taken against dental assistants who violate the state's dental practice act.

Frequently Asked Questions about Dental Assistant Registration

  • How long does it take to become a registered dental assistant in Washington State?
  • The time it takes to become a registered dental assistant in Washington State varies depending on the applicant's education and training. Applicants who have completed a CODA-accredited dental assisting program can apply for registration without taking an examination, while those who have not must pass an examination before they can register.

  • What is the cost of dental assistant registration in Washington State?
  • The cost of dental assistant registration in Washington State is $50 per year. Registered dental assistants must renew their registration every year by submitting a renewal application and paying the required fees.

  • What are the continuing education requirements for dental assistants in Washington State?
  • Dental assistants in Washington State are required to complete a minimum of 7 hours of continuing education each year to maintain their registration. The DOH accepts continuing education courses offered by accredited providers such as the American Dental Association (ADA) or the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD).

  • What is the scope of practice for registered dental assistants in Washington State?
  • Registered dental assistants in Washington State are allowed to perform a wide range of duties under the supervision of a licensed dentist. These duties include taking dental radiographs, preparing patients for treatment, assisting the dentist during procedures, and educating patients on oral health care.

  • What should I do if I have a complaint against a dental assistant in Washington State?
  • If you have a complaint against a dental assistant in Washington State, you can file a complaint with the DOH. Complaints can be filed by patients, employers, or other individuals who believe that a dental assistant has violated the state's dental practice act.

In conclusion, dental assistants play an important role in providing quality patient care in dental offices and clinics. The Washington State Department of Health Dental Assistant Registration process ensures that all registered dental assistants meet the necessary education and training requirements to assist dentists safely. Eligibility requirements, application process, examination requirements, renewal process, continuing education requirements, scope of practice, complaints and disciplinary actions, and resources for dental assistants are all important aspects of the registration process. By following these guidelines, dental assistants in Washington State can maintain their registration and provide exceptional care to their patients.

People Also Ask about Washington State Department of Health Dental Assistant Registration:

What is the Washington State Department of Health Dental Assistant Registration?

The Washington State Department of Health Dental Assistant Registration is a process by which dental assistants can become registered with the state and legally work in dental practices in Washington.

What are the requirements for Dental Assistant Registration in Washington State?

To become registered as a dental assistant in Washington State, you must have completed an accredited dental assisting program or have equivalent education or experience. You must also pass the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) exam or other board-approved exam.

How do I apply for Dental Assistant Registration in Washington State?

You can apply for Dental Assistant Registration in Washington State by completing an online application through the Washington State Department of Health website. You will need to provide proof of your education or experience, as well as proof of passing the DANB or other board-approved exam.

How much does Dental Assistant Registration cost in Washington State?

The fee for Dental Assistant Registration in Washington State is $65. This fee is non-refundable and must be paid at the time of application.