At this time, Kansas does not currently require Dental Assistants to attend school or have any certification. A person is allowed to walk into a dental office and be trained on the job with no prior knowledge of infection control, health and safety regulations, radiation health and safety, bloodborn diseases, sharps injuries, and OSHA standards and regulations, including Universal Precautions. 

However, Kansas requires a cosmetologist to attend school and be licensed to perform their services to the public. There are less hazards in cosmetology than there are in the healthcare field. 

We would not allow a doctor, a dentist, or nurse to perform duties in the healthcare field so why are we allowing a dental assistant to work without schooling and certification? 

Even EMTs, firefighters, CNAs, CMAs, and all other healthcare workers are required to attend schooling and maintain certification. 

Working in someone’s oral cavity is more hazardous than cutting someone’s hair. There’s more potential for spread of infection, airborne diseases, sharps injuries, bloodborne diseases being spread, and can be unsanitary if not done properly. 

Let’s get Kansas to make it a requirement for dental assistants (healthcare workers) to attend school and become certified. 

Sincerely, 

Mistie L. Jones, CDA