With the new year just around the corner, dental assistants may be setting goals to take their careers to the next level. Pursuing certification through the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) is the perfect next step. There are many personal and professional reasons to earn DANB certification, from earning power to increased knowledge. Read on to learn more.
1. Increase your earnings and job satisfaction
According to DANB’s 2018-2019 Dental Assistants Salary and Satisfaction Survey, DANB certificants earn $2 more per hour than dental assistants who are not certified. Surveyed CDA certificants also reported high or very high job satisfaction (82%), compared with those who are not certified (75%).
“Earning CDA certification is the best decision I’ve made in my career,” says Sally H., CDA. “Not only did I gain knowledge, but my pay scale is higher than an assistant who is not certified. Am I happy with DANB certification? Ecstatic is the word that comes to mind!”
2. Expand and demonstrate knowledge
Holding DANB certification is also a sign of a dental assistant’s commitment to lifelong learning. Dental assistants who complete continuing education tend to make greater contributions to the dental practice. They are more likely to grow in their careers, as well as be seen as leaders in the dental office.
“Certification shows you’re motivated and have the knowledge and skill sets to achieve, which is what employers are looking for,” believes Tai D., CDA.
In fact, findings of the Value of Dental Assistants to the Dental Practice research recently published by the DALE Foundation, DANB’s affiliate, point to the importance of training and education for dental assistants. Dentist and dental office manager survey respondents also say a willingness to learn is among the top qualities for dental assistants to possess.
3. Stand out when applying for jobs
Holding DANB certification can give you an edge over other dental assistants, especially when applying for a dental assisting position. Some employers prefer to hire job candidates who hold DANB certification, and recruiters often seek out DANB certificants to fill dental assisting positions.
“DANB certification sets me apart from other dental assistants,” agrees Natalie K., CDA, COA, CPFDA, CRFDA, CDPMA, COMSA. “Personally, I feel DANB certification gives one a higher level of personal and career satisfaction, and a higher level of professionalism.”
4. Enjoy more professional pride
Earning and maintaining DANB certification is a great source of pride for motivated dental assistants. “I am incredibly proud of the fact that I was able to pass DANB’s Certified Dental Assistant exam and become certified,” says Meagan M., CDA. “That takes hard work and dedication.”
Learn more about DANB certification
DANB’s certifications and competency exams are recognized or required by 38 states, the District of Columbia, the US Air Force, and the Department of Veterans Affairs. Earning a DANB certification can help you qualify to perform expanded functions and additional duties. To learn more about DANB exams and certification, visit danb.org.
Prepare for DANB exams with DALE Foundation resources
The DALE Foundation offers online review courses and practice tests to help dental assistants study for DANB exams, earn dental assisting certification, and continue their education. To explore the product catalog, visit dalefoundation.org.
