By: Natalie Kaweckyj, LDA, RF, CDA, CDPMA, COA, COMSA, CPFDA, CRFDA, MADAA, BA
Are you looking to become a dental assistant or are moving as a current dental assistant? Make sure to check the dental assistant requirements in Mississippi to see if you are still qualified in the state to practice.
Each state has different requirements for dental assistants, here are the levels, and functions permitted for dental assistants in MS.
Levels of Dental Assistants in Mississippi
There is only one level of dental assistant in MS:
1. Dental Assistant
A dental assistant in the state of Mississippi may perform basic supportive dental procedures specified by the state dental practice act under the direct supervision of a licensed dentist.
All dental assistants involved in direct patient care must be certified in CPR (within 180 days of employment). There are no other education or training requirements for this level of dental assisting.
Visit the Mississippi Board of Dentistry for more information.
Mississippi Radiography Requirements
To legally operate dental x-ray equipment and perform dental radiographic procedures in MS, a dental assistant must:
- Hold a current national DANB Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) certification, OR
- Successfully complete a Mississippi Board-approved radiology seminar and exam within 90 days prior to application, OR
- Graduate from a CODA-accredited dental assisting program within 12 months prior to application, OR
- Graduate from a CODA-accredited dental assisting program more than 12 months prior to application for a permit and provide sworn statements related to employment and administration of radiographs within the five-year period preceding application.
AND
- Apply to the Mississippi State Board of Dental Examiners for a radiology permit.
Photo by Mick Haupt
