Mandated Changes In 2025 By The California Dental Board For Dental Assisting You Should Know
Essential Information to Prepare for Your Dental Assisting Career
As the dental assisting profession evolves, staying informed about changes is crucial. At The Valley School for Dental Assisting (VSDA), an approved provider by the Dental Board of California, we are committed to guiding future dental assistants through any changes. Effective January 1, 2025, the Dental Board of California has implemented new rules and regulations that affect aspiring dental professionals and the courses we offer.
What are the requirements for X-ray Procedures after January 1, 2025?
Before a student performs X-ray procedures on patients, they must:
- Complete a Board-approved 8-hour infection control course.
- Possess current, valid certification in Basic Life Support (BLS).
What do students need to enroll in a Coronal Polishing dental assisting course?
For students to be eligible to enroll in a course for coronal polishing, they must:
- Complete a Board-approved 8-hour infection control course.
- Hold valid certification in Basic Life Support (BLS).
- Must have x-ray certificate before working on patients.
Are there new requirements for ultrasonic scaling?
Yes, you must have RDA license or OA permit in order to enroll in the course.
Per the Dental Board of California, students must show proof to us prior to working on patients
What certificates are required to work as a Dental Assistant?
In order to work as a Dental Assistant, students MUST show they hold certificates in:
- Infection Control
- Dental Practice Act
- Basic Life Support (BLS)
- X-ray
- Coronal Polishing (New For 2025!)
Can Dental Assistants perform coronal polishing procedures?
Yes, dental assistants can now perform coronary polish procedures once they have successfully completed a board-approved course.
What is required to apply for Registered Dental Assistant status?
In order to submit an application to become a Registered Dental Assistant (RDA), you MUST hold certificates in:
- Infection Control
- Dental Practice Act
- Basic Life Support (BLS)
- X-ray
- Coronal Polish
- Pit and Fissure Sealants
New Requirements For RDA applicants
- Course in Radiation Safety of at least 32 hours (completed within 10 years before the date of receipt of the application by the board).
- Course in Coronal Polishing of at least 12 hours (completed within 5 years before the date of receipt of the application by the board).
- Course in Pit and Fissure Sealants of at least 16 hours (completed within 5 years before the date of receipt of the application by the board).
- California Dental Practice Act, a 2-hour course (completed within 2 years before the date of receipt of the application by the board).
Who can perform Pit and Fissure Sealants?
Pit and Fissure Sealants can only be performed by Registered Dental Assistants (RDAs). Check out our RDA Prep Course.
You must hold certification in Infection Control, CPR , X-ray and Coronal Polish prior to working on patients.
What changes exist regarding work experience for Orthodontic Assistants?
Students no longer need:
- 6 months of work experience as a dental assistant to enroll in an Orthodontic Assistant (OA) course.
- 12 months of work experience to apply for an OA permit.
What are the requirements for Orthodontic Assistants?
All Orthodontic Assistants MUST hold an Orthodontic Assistant permit from the Dental Board of California. This is awarded at the end of our 6-week course.
➡️ Check Out Our Blog On Navigating the New Rules and Regulations for Orthodontic Assistants To Learn More!
For more information on how these changes may affect your path to becoming a dental assistant, contact us at VSDA today!
About Us
VSDA provides quality education and training for individuals interested in entering the field of Dental Assisting and those already in the field who are seeking career advancement.
Classes
We offer a wide variety of courses and certifications to prepare students for a career in the Dental field. Start from scratch or advance your career with VSDA today.
Admissions
Candidates are welcome to tour our facility and discuss our program with the VSDA faculty. We offer student’s financial consultation and assistance with the application process.
Tuition
VSDA offers a variety of dental and training courses through open registration. These range in length and price depending on your academic and professional needs.