Dental Assistant in Utah
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for UT
How to Become a Dental Assistant in Utah
In Utah, dental assistants are not required to be licensed at the basic level by the Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing. However, to perform expanded functions like taking x-rays or placing direct restorations, dental assistants must obtain specific certifications. This typically involves completing board-approved courses and passing relevant examinations, such as the DANB Radiation Health and Safety (RHS) exam for radiography or the DANB Certified Restorative Functions Dental Assistant (CRFDA) exam for restorative functions. Additionally, all dental assistants must hold current CPR or Basic Cardiac Life Support (BCLS) certification.
Dental Assistant Requirements in Utah
| Detail | Utah |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing |
| State License Required | No |
| Education | Board-approved courses for expanded functions; CPR or Basic Cardiac Life Support (BCLS) certification. |
| Exam | DANB Radiation Health and Safety (RHS) exam for radiography; DANB Certified Restorative Functions Dental Assistant (CRFDA) exam for restorative functions. |
| Notes | Utah does not license dental assistants at the basic level. A permit/certification is required to perform certain expanded functions, such as radiography and restorative procedures, which require specific training and examination. As of May 7, 2025, the division will create certifications for dental auxiliaries to perform expanded functions, including placement of direct restorations and removal of coronal dental adhesive. Minimum age of 18 and a high school diploma or GED are typically required for training programs. CPR certification is mandatory. |
Source: Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing
Dental Assistant Salary in Utah
The median dental assistant salary in Utah is $37,320 per year, which is 21.1% below the national median of $47,300.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $35,360 |
| 25th | $36,300 |
| 50th (median) | $37,320 |
| 75th | $45,030 |
| 90th (experienced) | $46,710 |
Utah employs approximately 6,310 dental assistants.
Dental Assistant Job Outlook
AI Impact on Dental Assistants
Low AI Exposure (Score: -0.53/1.00)
This career has low exposure to AI automation. Most tasks require physical presence, human judgment, or hands-on skills that AI cannot easily replicate.
Is Becoming a Dental Assistant in Utah Worth It?
Factors to consider: Utah's cost of living, the lack of a state license requirement, strong job growth, low AI disruption risk, and your personal career goals.