If you aspire to become a dentist, you don’t have to wait to work in the field that long.
Why not start as a Dental Assistant in Wyoming?
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Licensing Requirements to Become a Wyoming Dental Assistant
A dental assistant in Wyoming doesn’t need a special license to perform only basic dental assisting duties.
This may include replacing rubber dams under direct supervision or forming and inserting temporary crowns.
It also would include any other allowed responsibilities as directed by a licensed dentist and the Wyoming Board of Dental Examiners (WBDE).
Performing X-rays will require a license, however.
You can take the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) Radiation Health and Safety (RHS) exam to help you meet part of your requirement, which the WBDE does honor.
You also need to apply for the radiology license through the WBDE after you complete your radiology training.
Similar WBDE requirements apply to Dental Assistants who want to perform pit and fissure sealants.
There is an application for the X-ray and pit and fissure applications on the WBDE website.
To fulfill your DANB certifications that fulfill Wyoming requirements, you can attend a certificate or associate program approved by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA).
You also can study for the Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) credential offered by DANB.
5 Dental Assistant Schools in Wyoming
1. Western Wyoming Community College
The Western Wyoming Clinical Dental Assistant program will prepare you for the CDA exam offered by DANB.
It also will help you pass the Infection Control certification that meets OSHA guidelines, and it does prepare you for the RHS exam component.
In addition, you will learn how to take vital signs and interpret or file patient charts.
Part of your experience in this program will also show you how to identify the parts of the head, neck, and teeth.
2. Destiny Dental Assistant Program
This online program can help you even if you have not completed high school or received your GED yet.
However, you must be 18 before you do become a Dental Assistant, and it’s wise to finish high school or acquire your GED first.
It may be possible to enroll in a work-study problem if still attending high school full time if your jurisdiction allows that.
This DA program will prepare you for an entry-level position but does not include the radiology certificate.
3. The DALE Foundation
DALE provides continuing education support for Dental Assistant students in all states, including Wyoming.
Information provided includes practice exams and study aids.
Many of them prepare you for DANB tests, but you will find other specialty topics related to dentistry that have equal importance but may not pertain to a specific certification.
DALE also provides a list of recommended courses that do relate to state-required certifications that most dental practices also prefer you have.
You will notice the ICE Infection Control, and you will see an RHS Review link for returning students, etc.
4. Laramie Community College
Laramie provides a Dental Assistant training program that takes about 317.5 hours to complete, including 40 hours of practice while supervised by a licensed dentist.
It also offers you essential HIPAA patient privacy information, and you will learn CPR during this training period.
In addition, your coursework prepares you for the CDA that DANB hosts.
Infection control certification content also is provided, and you will learn anatomy, emergency response techniques, moisture control, sterilization, disinfection, and more.
5. Central Wyoming College
Central Wyoming has an entry-level Dental Assistant course that you can complete in one year or less.
You will place yourself in a real dental clinic environment and practice your assisting basics, radiology, infection control, and other essential components.
Some general education requirements, such as Microbiology, Nutrition, or Technical Writing.
Dental Assistant Schools in Wyoming – Summary Table
Top 5 Schools in Wyoming
| School Name | Address |
|---|---|
| Western Wyoming Community College | 2500 College Dr, Rock Springs, WY 82901 |
| Destiny Dental Assistant Program | 2100 Pioneer Ave, Cheyenne, WY 82001 |
| The DALE Foundation | |
| Laramie Community College | 1400 E College Dr, Cheyenne, WY 82007 |
| Central Wyoming College | Main Campus, 2660 Peck Ave, Riverton, WY 82501 |
Salary
By May 2022, the Wyoming Dental Assistant’s yearly income averaged about $36,417.
Salaries usually range from $32,299 to $40,406.
You can renew and add to your certifications, and with your experience, you could make more than $44,038.
Cities, where you can apply for jobs, include Casper, Cheyenne, Garland, Cody, or Riverton.
Annual Salary Range:Average Salary of Dental Assistants in Wyoming
| City Name | Salary |
|---|---|
| Cheyenne | $37,121 |
| Casper | $38,119 |
| Laramie | $37,563 |
| Gillette | $36,202 |
| Rock Springs | $37,552 |
| Sheridan | $38,573 |
| Green River | $37,552 |
| Evanston | $37,864 |
| Riverton | $37,506 |
| Cody | $38,573 |
Regional Salary in Wyoming
| Region | Employed | Avg. Annual Salary | Avg. Hourly Pay | Top 10% Annual Salary | Bottom 10% Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Casper, WY | 80 | $42,380 | $20.38 | $57,100 | $35,930 |
| Cheyenne, WY | 110 | $42,960 | $20.66 | $53,980 | $33,650 |
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a Wyoming Dental Assistant do?
A Wyoming Dental Assistant might take and develop X-rays, prepare patients for dental procedures, sterilize instruments, and provide patients with oral hygiene instructions.
How do I become a Dental Assistant?
Make sure you complete a CODA-accredited Dental Assistant program.
If you want to perform more than just basic dental duties, you should also abide by the state dentistry board’s wishes to have your radiology (RHS) and the pit-and-fissure application certification.
How long does it take to become a Dental Assistant?
It usually takes about nine months to a year to become an entry-level Dental Assistant.
You can start performing basic duties after you find a clinic that will host your on-the-job training during the first few months of CODA-approved training.
What is the job outlook for Dental Assistants in Wyoming?
The demand for Dental Assistants is expected to grow by 11% by 2030.
You can find jobs in university dental labs, public clinics, specialized dental offices (ex: pediatrics or orthodontics), and hospitals or private practices.
What are the benefits and challenges of being a dental assistant?
The benefits of being a dental assistant include flexible work hours, good pay, and the opportunity to help people.
However, you might find dealing with suffering patients, especially ones in pain, a challenge.
