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 Michigan 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 MI.
Levels of Dental Assistants in Michigan
1. Dental Assistant
A dental assistant in Michigan may perform basic supportive dental procedures specified by the state dental practice act and administrative rules under the direct or general supervision of a licensed dentist.
There are no other education or training requirements for this level of dental assisting, except for the aforementioned training required to operate dental radiography equipment (see above).
2. Registered Dental Assistant (RDA)
To become licensed as a Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) in MI, one must:
- Receive a degree or certificate from a CODA-accredited dental assisting program or a school of dental assisting meeting Michigan Board of Dentistry requirements, which includes required instruction in Michigan expanded functions*, AND
- Pass the Michigan board comprehensive and clinical exam or pass an equivalent exam in another state (proof of out-of-state licensure required), AND
- Complete the fingerprinting/criminal background check process, AND
- Apply for a license to the Michigan Board of Dentistry. RDA Licensing Guide
Beginning January 1, 2022, complete training in identifying victims of human trafficking in accordance with standards set forth in the Michigan Administrative Code.
Note: Individuals who earned the RDA credential prior to March 22, 2004, must complete additional expanded functions training courses before performing specified expanded functions.
Radiography Requirements in MI
To legally operate dental x-ray equipment and perform dental radiographic procedures in MI, a dental assistant must successfully complete a course in dental radiography that is substantially equivalent to a course taught in a CODA-accredited program.
Additional Resources:
Photo by Anon
