DANB introduces new Restorative Functions Certification Program

Dental assistants who are looking for that next challenge and another way to demonstrate their professional commitment can now earn a new certification. The Dental Assisting National Board, Inc. (DANB) has recently launched its latest certification program: Certified Restorative Functions Dental Assistant (CRFDA).

The CRFDA certification program is made up of six component exams: Anatomy, Morphology and Physiology (AMP); Impressions (IM); Temporaries (TMP); Isolation (IS); Sealants (SE); and Restorative Functions (RF). To earn CRFDA certification, dental assistants must pass all six component exams within three years. There are no eligibility requirements for the AMP, IM, TMP, IS or SE component exams; however, there are eligibility requirements for the RF component exam and to earn and maintain CRFDA certification. State dental boards that are looking for a valid and defensible way to assess a dental assistant’s knowledge-based competencies in content areas required for restorative functions can now rely on DANB’s new CRFDA certification program.

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There are currently dental assistants working in 26 different states who have earned CRFDA certification. DANB certificants said there are many reasons to earn CRFDA certification — such as demonstrating commitment and professionalism to their field, setting an example to others and maintaining a professional edge.

Julie Davis, CDA, CPFDA, CRFDA, said her certifications are an asset to the office and a point of pride when working with patients. “I felt it was really important to demonstrate to my patients that I go the extra mile,” she explained. “It’s a way for me to improve myself and benefit the office. I learned so much in the studying process.”

“My boss is proud of me for holding three DANB certifications,” said Sharon Krauser, CDA, CPFDA, CRFDA. “He displays my certificates in our main treatment room, and when patients see that, they respect me.”

Many dental assisting educators and program directors said CRFDA certification was something they felt they had the responsibility to earn — for themselves, their programs and their students. “I decided to earn CRFDA certification to further my professional career and show my students what is out there and how much they can achieve,” noted Kim Plate, CDA, CPFDA, CRFDA.

For those dental assistants who may be just starting out in their careers, or those who have years of experience but have not yet earned DANB certification, there are many benefits to taking the next step.

“Being DANB certified shows the dental community that I have proven knowledge in my field,” explained Stephanie Schmidt, CDA, CPFDA, CRFDA, RDAEF, FADAA, M.S. “Potential employers who value education and understand what being a DANB certificant mean are impressed with that part of my resume. I am also comforted that if I should ever move to another state, it is possible that my CDA certification would be useful in attaining licensure. Certification is important for career advancement, competence in the profession and self-esteem.”

If you’re looking to learn more about the CRFDA certification program or download an application packet, visit DANB’s website at www.danb.org and clicking on Become Certified > Exams and Certifications, or call DANB at 800-367-3262.