Dental assisting is a broad field with many different paths, titles, qualifications, and scope of practice. Beginners often wonder how CDA, EFDA, and RDA credentials differ.
However, understanding these credentials is important when choosing a career path and selecting the right academic courses.
Licensure vs. Certification
Many people mix up licensure and certification, yet they serve two different purposes in healthcare. State regulatory boards issue licenses or registrations. A state license gives legal authorization to perform specific dental tasks within that jurisdiction.
State authorization is required for an assistant to be able to conduct X-rays and carry out more sophisticated clinical functions where state certifications are necessary. Certification is obtained from professional certification bodies. It measures one’s level of knowledge through a test.
Getting certified shows that you have mastered the key clinical principles; however, it does not serve as a substitute for the state license requirement unless stated otherwise by state legislation.
Certified Dental Assistant (CDA)
The Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) issues the Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) credential. This national certification holds strong recognition across the United States.
To earn a CDA, candidates must pass three separate DANB exam components:
- General Chairside Assisting (GC)
- Radiation Health and Safety (RHS)
- Infection Control (ICE)
Since the CDA is based on national standards, it provides excellent employment mobility. The CDA certification is usually maintained when dental assistants transfer from one state to another. CDA certification can demonstrate knowledge and training to potential employers and may strengthen a candidate’s qualifications, depending on the position and state requirements.
Registered Dental Assistant (RDA)
A Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) holds a state-level credential rather than a national certification. State dental boards establish the specific rules for earning and maintaining RDA status. Requirements vary significantly across state lines.
Some states require candidates to complete an accredited program, pass a state jurisprudence test, or clear a clinical exam. Because state boards set these regulations, an RDA credential usually does not transfer automatically if an assistant moves to another state.
Expanded Functions Dental Assistant (EFDA)
An Expanded Functions Dental Assistant (EFDA) completes additional training to perform advanced clinical procedures.
While standard assistants focus on chairside support, EFDAs perform placing dental fillings, placing sealants, or taking impressions under direct supervision. In states that recognize this role, expanded-function credentials may qualify dental assistants for positions with additional responsibilities, although compensation varies by location, employer, experience, and credentials.
Specialty Dental Credentials
Beyond general assisting, specialized credentials validate specific skills:
- Orthodontic assisting credentials: Some dental assistants pursue additional education or credentials focused on orthodontic assisting, depending on available programs and employer requirements.
- Radiography credentials or permits: Requirements for dental radiography vary by state and may involve specific education, examinations, or permits.
Choosing the Right Credentials
Depending on state regulations and personal ambitions, choosing the right certification is important. People who want to be mobile across the nation pick national certification. People who want more responsibility in a clinical setting tend to pick functional endorsement.
National certification, along with state permits, gives an edge in the competitive employment environment.
Build Your Career As a Dental Assistant
Understanding how national certification differs from state licensure makes a clearer path to career success. National certification such as the CDA offers mobility and credibility.
State licensing such as the RDA or EFDA gives you the authority to administer clinical procedures in your state. The more credentials you obtain, the more opportunities and job security you will have.
Students who want to be mentored by professionals and prepare for their examinations can enroll at the Infuse Dental Assistant School to get the hands-on experience needed for these important credentials. Call us today at (219) 224-6467 to sign up for our classes.