Career Pathways
Be part of a team
Training as a dental assistant doesn’t have to be like pulling teeth. In Massachusetts, there are four tiers of dental assistants based on the training you do. Training opportunities range from on-the-job (OJT), to completing an accredited program or completing an accredited program plus additional specialty training to become an expanded function dental assistant. Learn more about the tiers and training here.
TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES
On-the-job training (OJT)
An OJT dental assistant receives direct training in a dental office from a licensed, supervising dentist. A non-formally trained person can join the dental workforce as an OJT dental assistant through two pathways: initial licensure or notice of intent to apply.
Dental assistant training programs
The Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) offers eight accredited programs in Massachusetts. Other programs are state-approved vocational dental assisting programs or licensed by the Massachusetts Department of Higher Education.