What is the job market for Certified Dental Assistants?
The employment rate for CDAs continues to remain high. Graduates have been very successful in finding a job upon completion of the CDA program. The “Help Wanted” ads in the newspapers are also indicative of the jobs available for Certified Dental Assistants.


What type of a salary can a new graduate of the Certified Dental Assistant program expect to receive?
Entry level Certified Dental Assistants can expect an hourly rate ranging from$15 - $18 per hour. Experienced CDAs can earn higher wages.


How long is the Certified Dental Assistant program at UFV?
The program is 10 months long (September – June), full time, Monday to Friday.


What are the prerequisites to the CDA program?
High school graduation with Chemistry 11, Biology 11, Biology 12 and English 12 with an overall average of C+ or greater plus two letters of reference.

What kind of person is best suited for or is most likely to be successful in the CDA program?
Those individuals who enjoy working with people and truly care for them; demonstrate positive characteristics (patience, enthusiasm, motivation, dependability) and skills; are responsible and socially mature.


Does the CDA program ladder/bridge into other programs such as Dental Hygiene?
There is no formal laddering system in place. An individual wishing to enter the Dental Hygiene Program would be required to first compete their first year of sciences and proceed to apply to a two year hygiene program. It is, however, beneficial to have a certificate in dental assisting prior to taking hygiene although it is not a prerequisite nor does it reduce the time required to obtain the hygiene diploma.


Once I have obtained my CDA certificate, can I branch out into any other area of dentistry?
Yes, the dental assistant can focus his/her practice on various specialties such as Orthodontics; Prosthodontics; Pedodontics; oral surgery. Some of these require additional training – usually available through Continuing Education.


Is continuing education mandatory for Certified Dental Assistants?
Yes, a certain number of credits have to be obtained each year in order for the CDA to maintain his/her license.


How do I, as a potential healthcare worker, protect myself from the various communicable diseases?
In dentistry, there are various ways of protecting oneself: using universal precautions; participating in immunization programs.