Celebrating 75 years of Certified Dental Assistant certification

This year marks the 75th anniversary of the Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) certification. Since 1948, CDA certification has stood for dental assisting excellence. This milestone is an achievement for all the Certified Dental Assistants across the country who have dedicated their careers to delivering quality patient care.

“This is a time for reflection and appreciation of the contributions of Certified Dental Assistants to the oral healthcare community,” said DANB CEO Laura Skarnulis. “With their unwavering commitment to quality patient care, these professionals are leaders in their field and instrumental in increasing access to oral healthcare. We commend all Certified Dental Assistants for their ongoing dedication to their patients, colleagues, and the profession.”

CDA certification has played a vital role in ensuring high standards of patient care and professional competency in dental assisting. The experience and expertise of Certified Dental Assistants helps streamline dental procedures, improve patient outcomes, and enhance overall practice efficiency.

This landmark occasion not only commemorates the past, but also highlights the importance and impact of CDA certification in supporting the future of the profession.

Over the past 75 years, the CDA certification has continuously evolved to reflect advancements in dental technology and practices, ensuring that Certified Dental Assistants remain at the forefront of their field. Enhancements to the CDA certification will continue, as DANB explores the growing pathways into the profession and the needs of dental practices now and in the future.

Related: DANB kicks off review of dental assisting roles to inform future programs

“The future of the dental assisting field is incredibly promising,” Skarnulis said. “As the profession evolves, so will CDA certification, ensuring that those who earn the certification remain poised to make significant contributions to the dental field and play a vital role in improving oral health outcomes for patients nationwide.”

Advancements in dental technology, expanded scope of practice, and increasing awareness of oral health have opened up new avenues for Certified Dental Assistants. These professionals are well positioned to adapt to the evolving needs of the industry, and their skills will continue to be in demand. As the profession moves forward, certification will continue to be an indispensable asset, empowering dental assistants to navigate the challenges of the future and make a positive impact on the lives of patients.

DANB will celebrate the 75th anniversary of CDA certification throughout July by sharing and highlighting stories from Certified Dental Assistants, creating a social media toolkit that everyone in dentistry can use to join in the celebrations, and offering a promotion on one of the exams leading to CDA certification.