Maryland Dental Assistant Requirements

Each state has different requirements for dental assistants. This page includes links to all the information you need to understand the requirements for dental assistants in this state. View the different dental assisting levels, along with the requirements for each. You can also view the allowable duties at each level.

Maryland Requirements

Dental Assistant Qualified in General Duties Requirements

To perform expanded functions in Maryland, a dental assistant must register as a Dental Assistant Qualified in General Duties. To qualify one must:

1. Complete a Board-approved course of at least 35 hours related to Maryland general duties dental assisting, AND

2a. Pass the Maryland General Dental Assisting Expanded Functions (MDG) exam administered by DANB, or

2b. Pass the national DANB Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) exam, AND

3. Apply to the Maryland State Board of Dental Examiners for state recognition as a Maryland Dental Assistant Qualified in General Duties. 

Note: While not required by law, it is recommended that a Dental Assistant Qualified in General Duties also earn status as a Dental Radiation Technologist.