Pennsylvania 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.
Radiography Requirements
To legally operate dental X-ray equipment and perform dental radiographic procedures in Pennsylvania under the direct supervision of a licensed dentist, a dental assistant must pass the national DANB Radiation Health and Safety (RHS) exam.
Evidence of having passed the required exam** should be retained by the dental assistant and the licensed dentist as evidence of the individual’s authority to perform radiologic procedures.
**Note: Prior to Dec. 12, 2009, a Pennsylvania-specific radiography exam administered by an entity other than DANB was required. If a dental assistant qualified to perform radiography procedures by taking the former Pennsylvania exam prior to Dec. 12, 2009, both the dental assistant and his or her employer should retain evidence of the dental assistant's passing the former Pennsylvania radiography exam.
