In North Carolina, there are two classifications for Dental Assistants (DAI and DAII.)  North Carolina does NOT certify assistants. Classification is based on experience and/or training as listed below. It is up to the employer to verify an assistant's qualifications and determine if he/she is a DAI or DAII.

To be classified as a Dental Assistant II, an assistant shall meet one of the following criteria:

(1) completion of:
(a) an ADA-accredited dental assisting program and current certification in CPR; or
(b) one academic year or longer in an ADA-accredited dental hygiene program, and current certification in CPR; or

(2) completion of the Dental Assistant certification examination(s) administered by the Dental Assisting National Board and current certification in CPR; or

(3) completion of:
(a) a 3-hour course in sterilization and infection control;
(b) a 3-hour course in dental office emergencies; and
(c) current certification in CPR.
(d) after completing Sub-Items (3)(b), (c), and (d) of this Rule, dental assistants may be trained in any dental delivery setting and allowed to perform the functions of a Dental Assistant II under the direct control and supervision of a licensed dentist, except as listed in Sub-Item 3(e) of this Rule.
(e) dental assistants may take radiographs after completing radiology training consistent with G.S. 90-29(c)(12).
(f) full-time employment and experience as a chairside assistant for two years (3,000 hours) of the preceding five, during which period the assistant may be trained in any dental delivery setting and allowed to perform the functions of a Dental Assistant II under the direct control and supervision of a licensed dentist.

A certified dental assistant [(one who successfully completes the DANB exam (see (2) above)] or an assistant who completes an ADA-accredited dental assisting or dental hygiene program may take radiographs without further examination. All others, including those who move to North Carolina from out-of-state,  must successfully pass an equivalency exam. This exam may be challenged after completing "seven (7) hours of instruction in the production and use of dental x-rays and an education program of not less than fourteen (14) hours in clinical dental radiology." You must be able to prove that you have the minimal amount of training to be eligible to take the radiology equivalency exam, or you may take a course prior to taking the exam. Any Board approved radiography course is acceptable and any approved course's final examination is recognized as the equivalency exam.

Click here to see the latest list of approved radiology courses & instructors