Tennessee Dental Assisting Licensure

Nov 25 / Dent ED Online
A dental assistant's role is to support the dentist by performing a variety of tasks. This resource will guide you through the rules for dental assistants in the state of Tennessee and the procedure for becoming a licensed dental assistant in Tennessee.

What's the difference between a PDA, an RDA, and a CDA?

A PDA, or Practical Dental Assistant, is an auxiliary employee of a licensed dentist who is receiving practical chair side dental assisting training from a licensed dentist. Dental assisting students in a CODA accredited program are also considered PDAs. PDAs are not registered with the state. 

An RDA, or Registered Dental Assistant, is a dental assistant who has been registered with the state. A registered dental assistant can perform additional procedures once they have received Board certification.

A CDA, or Certified Dental Assistant, is a dental assistant who has passed the DANB (Dental Assisting National Board) and is certified by the Dental Assisting National Board. CDAs are not automatically registered in Tennessee. 

How can I become an RDA?

You can apply online or download the paper application. You can find the application here. Click on the "Applications" tab on the left side of the screen and scroll down to the section for Dental Assistants.

To become registered with the state, you must be at least 18 years old and a high school or GED graduate. There is no longer a dental education requirement to become registered. However, graduating from an accredited dental assisting program can be highly appealing on your resume. You can find a list of Tennessee approved programs here. Click on the "Educational Program" tab on the left side of the screen.

Applicants must complete the application form and include a recent passport style photo, proof of citizenship (birth certificate, etc.), two letters of reference, and proof of CPR certification. The CPR certification must be a BLS Healthcare Provider course, or CPR/AED for the professional rescuer. A criminal background check is also required.

Also, anyone licensed in another state must give proof of good standing in that state when applying in Tennessee. Any failed exams, criminal history, or professional discipline in another state must be explained.

What additional procedures can an RDA perform?

RDAs, with additional Board-approved training, may, under the direct supervision of a licensed dentist perform:
  • Coronal Polishing
  • Application of Sealants
  • Monitoring Nitrous Oxide
  • Exposure of Dental Radiographs
  • Expanded Restorative Functions
  • Expanded Prosthetic Functions


Dent ED Online offers Board approved courses in Coronal Polishing, Application of Sealants, Monitoring Nitrous Oxide, and Exposure of Dental Radiographs. 

When should I renew my license?

Renewals are due the last day of the month in which you were born. You can find your license expiration date on your license. Prior to your renewal date, a reminder will be emailed to you. If you don't receive the reminder, it is still up to you to renew on time.

Click here to find the online renewal link and information.

I let my license lapse. What should I do?

You can reapply, but you will have to pay all past due fees plus a reinstatement fee. You will also have to show proof of all CE's for the time the license was lapsed. If the license was lapsed for more than a year, the Board may require additional training. 

I retired my license and want to reactivate it. What should I do?

If you officially retired your license by submitting an affidavit of retirement, you can simply write the Board and ask for reinstatement. See 0460-01-.05 (6)(b) for CE requirements to reinstate. If you did not submit an affidavit, your license is considered lapsed.

Helpful Resources

We are always happy to help answer any questions you have. You can contact us at info@dent-ed.com

Click here to access the rules of the Tennessee Board of Dentistry.

References

Board of Dentistry. (n.d.). Tennessee Department of Health. Retrieved November 25, 2024, from https://www.tn.gov/content/tn/health/health-program-areas/health-professional-boards/dentistry-board.html