https://www.op.nysed.gov/professions/registered-dental-assistants/scope-of-practice-changes

https://www.op.nysed.gov/professions/registered-dental-assistants/laws-rules-regulations/article-133 

**What are the general requirements to become a New York State licensed “registered dental assistant” (RDA)?

You must be at least 18 years of age, submit an application, appropriate fees, and all required documents, meet the educational requirements, and meet the examination requirements. Check out the Office of the Professions website @ http://www.op.nysed.gov/prof/dent/article133.htm for the most up to date information.  

*Do all dental assistants working toward New York State licensure have to take the Dental Assisting National Certification Exam (DANB)?

Passing scores on appropriate examinations administered by the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB), Inc. are required for licensure in New York State. For an examination application, fees and scheduling information for the New York State exam, visit the DANB Web site at http://www.danb.org/ or contact DANB by phone : 1-800-367-3262.

*What is a “Tier”?

A Tier is a level of entry into CDAMP. Where you are entered into the program depends upon your previous formal education, testing, and experience. Your completed “Pre-Application” is used to determine your placement. 

*Where will the courses be given?

After registering for enrollment into a module, paperwork can be downloaded from the CDAMP.net web site for completion at home over a 5 week period. A final, 50 question multiple choice exam for each module will be given by your preceptor. The skill portion of the module can be completed in the dental office with your assigned preceptor.

*What is a preceptor?

A preceptor is a dentist who has signed on to instruct, mentor and evaluate your expanded skills in the dental office while you are enrolled in CDAMP. It is also the responsibility of the preceptor to proctor exams, if necessary, and monitor the student’s progress in completing his or her coursework in a timely manner. If there are some functions your preceptor does not perform in-office, such as orthodontics or periodontics, another preceptor will be assigned to you for those skills. Your preceptor will need to reach out to a colleague to have you go to their office to do the required skills.

*When will there be class time?

There is no established classroom time, however, you may reach out to Colleen Pariso RDH, BA, CDAMP Administrator at 607-739-3581 ext. 1328 on Monday’s & Friday’s from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm. Feel free to email with any questions as well: chickspariso@gstboces.org

*Do we need a text book for CDAMP?

Yes. The primary text used in this program is “Dental Assisting, a Comprehensive Approach”, 6th Edition, by Singhal, Kantz & Damatta, 2023. This book may be purchased through the Adult Education and Training Division of GST BOCES by calling 607-739-7905. This book will also be listed as an option to purchase when you register for CDAMP.

*How can we learn and practice state approved expanded dental assisting skills/functions in the dental office if we are not yet New York State Registered?

Any dental assistant who is enrolled in a New York State Dental Assisting Program, registered by the New York State Education Department as meeting the requirements for licensure, may, as part of their course of study, legally perform registered dental assistant functions in a dental office under the direct supervision of a licensed dentist.

*How long do we have to finish the entire course?

Three years from your enrollment date.

*What does direct supervision mean?

The dentist must be present at the time the skill is performed.

*Who else, besides licensed “state registered dental assistants,” may perform those functions?

A licensed dental hygienist or dentist, and a dental assistant who has been issued a Limited Permit to practice. No other persons may do so.

* Are some dental assistants able to perform New York State certified dental assistant functions under a “grandfather clause”?

 No.

*How many courses must you take to complete CDAMP for certification?

CDAMP is tailored to the individual student’s needs. When you complete the “pre-application form” your experience and formal education will be evaluated for placement into the correct “tier” of the program. The program is divided into eight modules. Modules I through IV are available with a test out option called a “challenge exam”.  

*What are the fees for CDAMP? (fees are subject to change at any time) 

Currently, each module is $295 each, and you pay as you progress.  It is not required to pay in full for all eight modules at once.  Each “challenge exam” (applies to modules I-IV only) is $75 and if you fail a test, you will be required to pay another $75 for each additional test.  A textbook will be required and can be purchased through BOCES at the time of registration.  The current fee for the textbook is $195.  A typodont will be required in MODULE VIII for a fee of $175 and will be purchased through BOCES and sent to your office in the mail.  When the student is finished with the typodont, and it is returned complete, a refund of up to $90 may be requested by the payee.