Dental Now
Quick answer
To work as a dental assistant in Maryland, DANB certification is one accepted pathway in Maryland. Radiography certification or training is required before a DA can take X-rays. Expanded functions exist in Maryland with additional training or certification required. Always verify the current rules with the Maryland dental board (via DANB).
Sources Data sourced from DANB (Maryland requirements page). The DANB is the authoritative aggregator of state dental assistant requirements for all 51 US jurisdictions. Requirements change yearly.
Requirements change yearly. The Maryland dental board is the final authority. This page reflects DANB published guidance as of 2026. Always confirm current rules with the Maryland dental board before making career or enrollment decisions.
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In this guide
DANB certification in Maryland Not required for basic assisting
For radiography (DANB RHS or CDA) and as a pathway for general-duties registration
This describes state requirements as sourced from DANB and the Maryland dental board. It is not a DANB endorsement of Dental Now. Completing Dental Now activities does not satisfy a state board requirement. For the authoritative current rules, visit the DANB Maryland requirements page.
Radiology requirements in Maryland Required
Yes, state Dental Radiation Technologist cert: 18+, HS diploma, 24-hr board-approved MD radiology course + DANB RHS or CDA exam
State exam in Maryland Exam required
Maryland General Dental Assisting Expanded Functions (MDG) exam (by DANB) OR DANB CDA for general-duties registration
Expanded functions in Maryland Available
Yes, Dental Assistant Qualified in General Duties: 35-hr board course + MDG exam or DANB CDA
Expanded functions allow trained dental assistants to perform additional clinical procedures beyond basic chairside assisting. Common examples include coronal polishing, application of pit and fissure sealants, placement of temporary restorations, and nitrous oxide monitoring. Each function typically requires a separate board-approved course, exam, or permit. Your state dental board is the authoritative source for what is currently permitted.
Training pathway in Maryland
Board-approved courses + DANB exams; radiation tech recommended alongside general duties
Dental assistant training paths vary widely by state. Some states allow on-the-job training for basic assisting while requiring formal education only for expanded functions or radiography. Others require a CODA-accredited program or a DANB credential as a prerequisite. Confirm which pathway applies to the specific role and function level you are targeting.
Log your externship hours in Maryland
Free toolDocument every session as you go. Your supervising dentist confirms each one with their NPI number, giving you a verified record from day one.
- Record each session with the date, supervising dentist's name and NPI, setting, and hours completed.
- Note procedures observed or assisted with in a sentence or two; some Maryland programs require a competency log.
- Get dentist confirmation promptly so hours are verified rather than self-claimed. Retroactive confirmations are harder to collect.
- Organize by setting and date so you can report hours across multiple practices without confusion.
Log your externship hours
Dental Now generates a record confirmed by your supervising dentist's NPI number. Whether your Maryland program or state board asks for documentation, the record is already built.
Free. Verified by your supervising dentist's NPI number.
Log your first session in under 30 seconds. No credit card.
Frequently asked questions: Maryland
Do I need DANB certification to work as a dental assistant in Maryland?
DANB certification is one accepted pathway in Maryland. Verify whether it is required or optional for your specific role with the Maryland dental board.
Does Maryland require radiography certification for dental assistants?
Yes, Maryland requires radiography certification or documented training before a dental assistant can take X-rays. The specific requirement is: Yes, state Dental Radiation Technologist cert: 18+, HS diploma, 24-hr board-approved MD radiology course + DANB RHS or CDA exam Verify current requirements with the Maryland dental board.
What are expanded functions for dental assistants in Maryland?
Maryland has an expanded functions pathway for dental assistants. Yes, Dental Assistant Qualified in General Duties: 35-hr board course + MDG exam or DANB CDA Each function typically requires separate board-approved coursework, a clinical exam, or a permit. The Maryland dental board is the authoritative source for current requirements.
Sources
- DANB: Maryland Dental Assistant Requirements
- DANB State Requirements Database (all 51 jurisdictions)
About this page
This page is a plain-language summary of Maryland dental assistant requirements sourced from DANB. It is not affiliated with DANB, the Maryland dental board, or any accrediting body. It does not constitute legal or regulatory advice. Requirements change; the Maryland dental board is the final authority. Completing Dental Now activities does not satisfy any state board requirement.
Dental Now is a free platform for dental assistant, dental hygiene, and pre-dental students to log clinical hours, get them verified by a supervising dentist's NPI number, and maintain a credential vault.