How to Become a Dental Assistant in Illinois
How to Become a Dental Assistant in Illinois: Complete Guide to Certification, Training, and Career Advancement
Becoming a dental assistant in Illinois is a rewarding career choice that offers strong opportunities for growth and advancement in the healthcare field. Dental assistants play an essential role in supporting dentists during clinical procedures, managing infection control, and ensuring efficient patient care. Illinois allows multiple pathways to enter the profession, and understanding the correct requirements will help you prepare for a successful career. This guide explains certification pathways, training options, continuing education, and career outlook for dental assistants in Illinois. Training programs, such as those offered through Dental AssistEd, are designed to help students meet Illinois expanded function requirements while building clinical competency and confidence.
What Are the Illinois Dental Assistant Certification Requirements?
Illinois does not require dental assistants to hold a state license to perform basic supportive dental procedures. Individuals may begin working as dental assistants under the supervision of a licensed dentist without formal certification. However, additional training and certification are required to perform expanded functions such as coronal polishing, pit and fissure sealants, coronal scaling, and restorative procedures.
To perform expanded functions legally in Illinois, dental assistants must complete state-approved training and meet eligibility requirements established under the Illinois Dental Practice Act and the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR).
Eligibility for expanded functions such as coronal polishing typically requires one of the following: completion of at least 2,000 hours of clinical dental assisting experience under the supervision of a licensed dentist, completion of a CODA-accredited dental assisting program, or holding a current DANB Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) certification.
After meeting eligibility requirements, dental assistants must complete an IDFPR-approved course in the specific expanded function. Programs such as Dental AssistEd’s coronal polishing, sealants, and restorative courses are structured to meet these Illinois requirements and prepare assistants for clinical competency.
Which Exams and Credentials Are Needed for Illinois Certification?
Illinois does not require a licensing exam to become a general dental assistant. However, completion of approved training programs is required before performing expanded clinical duties.
The DANB Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) credential is nationally recognized and may help qualify dental assistants for expanded function training while improving employment opportunities.
Additional certifications commonly required or recommended include coronal polishing certification, pit and fissure sealant certification, coronal scaling certification, Basic Life Support (BLS) certification for healthcare providers, and OSHA and infection control training. Dental AssistEd provides training programs that align with these clinical and regulatory standards.
These certifications allow dental assistants to perform expanded duties safely and legally under dentist supervision.
How Do Training Programs Help Dental Assistants Qualify for Expanded Functions
Training programs provide both theoretical knowledge and hands-on clinical instruction required for expanded dental assisting duties. These programs help assistants develop proper technique, infection control practices, and clinical safety skills.
Common expanded function training includes coronal polishing and sealants training, coronal scaling training, restorative functions training, infection control and OSHA compliance training, and Basic Life Support certification.
State-approved programs such as Dental AssistEd’s expanded function courses are designed to help dental assistants meet Illinois eligibility requirements while building real clinical skills necessary for modern dental practice.
Completion of approved training allows dental assistants to perform expanded functions legally and competently under dentist supervision.
What Dental Assistant Programs and Training Options Are Available in Illinois?
Dental assistants in Illinois may choose from CODA-accredited dental assisting programs, expanded function certification courses, hands-on clinical training programs, continuing education courses, and compliance training courses such as OSHA, HIPAA, and infection control.
Hands-on clinical training is required for expanded functions such as coronal polishing, sealants, coronal scaling, and restorative procedures. Programs such as Dental AssistEd provide hands-on instruction combined with structured didactic education to ensure assistants meet Illinois clinical competency standards.
Online training may also be used for compliance education, infection control training, and continuing education topics.
How to Choose the Right Dental Assistant Training Near Me
When selecting a training program, ensure the course meets Illinois Dental Practice Act requirements and provides proper clinical instruction.
Programs that include hands-on training, instructor supervision, and competency evaluation are necessary for expanded clinical functions. Dental AssistEd offers both hands-on and didactic training designed to prepare dental assistants for real clinical environments while complying with Illinois regulations.
Training programs should also include infection control, patient safety, proper instrument handling, and clinical procedure protocols.
Choosing a structured training program helps ensure assistants are properly prepared to perform expanded functions safely and legally.
What Are the Course Durations, Costs, and Curriculum Details?
Understanding the durations, costs, and curriculum details of various dental assistant courses is essential for making informed decisions. Below is a comparison of some popular courses:
Course NameDurationCostImplicit Bias Training1 CEU$35.00Human Trafficking Course2 CEU$45.00Illinois Coronal Polishing CourseN/A$375.00Illinois Pit and Fissure Sealant CourseN/A$375.00Expanded Functions Dental Assistant — Restorative CourseN/A$3,700.00Basic Life Support for Healthcare Professionals (CPR)3 CEU$65.00
These courses are designed to provide the necessary skills and knowledge to excel as a dental assistant while ensuring compliance with state regulations.
How to Fulfill Continuing Education Requirements for Illinois Dental Assistants?
To fulfill continuing education requirements for Illinois dental assistants, you can take courses that are state-approved and PACE-accredited. These courses include:
Coronal Polishing & Sealants Course - Meets Illinois requirements for coronal polishing.
Coronal Scaling Course - Covers advanced cleaning techniques under dentist supervision.
Restorative Course - Teaches placement, carving, and finishing of restorations, complying with IDFPR requirements.
Compliance Bundle - Offers 22 CE credits covering OSHA, HIPAA, and other essential compliance training.
You can choose from hands-on or online training options provided by organizations like Dental AssistEd, which ensure you meet the latest industry standards and state regulations.
What Continuing Education Courses Does Dental AssistEd Offer?
Illinois does not require continuing education for dental assistants performing basic supportive duties. However, continuing education is strongly recommended and often required for expanded function certification programs and employment advancement.
Continuing education helps dental assistants maintain clinical competency, stay current with infection control standards, and qualify for expanded duties.
Courses commonly include coronal polishing, sealants, restorative functions, infection control, OSHA compliance, radiography, and patient safety. Dental AssistEd offers continuing education courses designed to help dental assistants meet these clinical and regulatory expectations.
Continuing education improves clinical skills, employment opportunities, and career advancement potential.
How to Maintain Eligibility for Expanded Functions
Dental assistants performing expanded functions must maintain proper training and competency through approved courses and supervised clinical practice.
This includes completing state-approved training, maintaining infection control knowledge, working under dentist supervision, and maintaining certifications such as Basic Life Support when required.
Programs such as Dental AssistEd help assistants maintain competency through structured training and continuing education.
Maintaining proper training ensures patient safety and regulatory compliance.
What Is the Career Outlook and Salary Range for Dental Assistants in Illinois?
Dental assistant salaries vary based on experience, location, and certifications. Entry-level assistants typically earn less, while assistants with expanded function training and certifications earn higher wages.
Dental assistants trained in coronal polishing, sealants, restorative procedures, and expanded clinical functions often have increased earning potential.
Completing structured training programs such as Dental AssistEd’s expanded function courses can help improve employment qualifications and long-term career advancement.
What Are the Current Job Growth Trends and Employment Opportunities?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the job growth rate for dental assistants nationwide is projected to be about 11% from 2022 to 2032, which is faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is driven by an aging population that requires more dental care and the increasing emphasis on preventive dental services.
How Much Can You Expect to Earn as a Certified Dental Assistant in Illinois?
The salary range for certified dental assistants in Illinois varies based on experience, location, and the type of dental practice. According to the BLS May 2022 data, the average annual wage for dental assistants in Illinois is approximately $44,000, with typical ranges between $35,000 and $55,000. Factors such as additional certifications and specialized training can also influence earning potential.
This aligns with broader discussions on how credentials and continuous professional development can significantly impact a dental assistant's career trajectory and earning potential.
Dental Assistant Credentials & Career Advancement in Chicago
ABSTRACT: Kaweckyj, Natalie, LDA, RF, CDA, CDPMA, COA, COMSA, CPFDA, CRFDA, MADAA, BA ADAA.Dental Assistant; ChicagoVol. 90, Iss. 2,(Mar/Apr 2021): 16-18.
Working at the Top of Your Credential, 2021
How to Prepare for Licensing Exams and Navigate the Illinois Dental Assistant Licensing Process?
To prepare for licensing exams and navigate the Illinois Dental Assistant licensing process, you should focus on the following steps:
Complete Required Education: Enroll in state-approved courses that meet Illinois requirements, such as coronal polishing, coronal scaling, and restorative courses. Ensure that the courses are aligned with the Illinois Dental Practice Act and recognized by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR).
Gain Clinical Experience: Accumulate the necessary clinical hours. For example, to enroll in the coronal polishing course, you need either 2,000 hours of clinical dental assisting experience or to have completed a CODA-accredited program.
Obtain Certifications: Pursue essential certifications that enhance your skills and comply with state regulations. This includes certifications in OSHA, HIPAA, and specific dental procedures.
Stay Updated: Engage in continuing education to keep up with the latest industry techniques and technologies, which is crucial for compliance and career advancement.
Prepare for Exams: Review the material covered in your courses and ensure you understand the practical applications of your training.
Contact Relevant Authorities: If you have specific questions about the licensing process, reach out to the IDFPR or a local dental association for guidance.
By following these steps, you can effectively prepare for your licensing exams and navigate the licensing process in Illinois.
What Study Resources and Exam Preparation Tips Are Recommended?
The recommended study resources and exam preparation tips include:
Choose the Right Course: Ensure the course meets state certification needs and fulfills continuing education requirements.
Consider Learning Format: Decide between hands-on training or online learning based on your needs.
Utilize Available Courses: Take advantage of the various courses offered by Dental AssistEd, which cover essential topics like infection control, risk management, and more.
For further assistance, you can contact their support team for personalized inquiries.
How to Apply for Your Illinois Dental Assistant License Step-by-Step
To apply for your Illinois dental assistant license, follow these steps:
Complete the Application: Fill out the application form provided by the IDFPR.
Submit Required Documentation: Include proof of education, clinical experience, and any certifications obtained.
Pay the Application Fee: Ensure that you include the necessary payment with your application.
Schedule Your Exam: Once your application is approved, schedule your licensing exam through the appropriate testing agency.
Prepare for the Exam: Review all relevant materials and practice your skills to ensure you are ready for the exam day.
By following these steps, you can successfully navigate the application process and obtain your dental assistant license in Illinois.
