Dental Assistant Practice in Alberta

Dental assisting practice includes a wide range of competencies. The Competency Profile for Dental Assistants lists them.

For most competencies, including the Entry Practices and Advanced Practices, you must complete formal education. Other competencies may be acquired through experience, further education and/or on-the-job training.

As a dental assistant you:

• may practice only when you have a valid Practice Permit
• must follow the Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics
• may only perform the Entry Practices and Advanced Practices we have authorized you for* and that you are competent in after proper education, training and experience
• are responsible and accountable for your own practice and the decisions you make regardless of direction or supervision

*If you are not authorized for an Entry Practice it will show as a condition on your Practice Permit and the Registry. If you are authorized for an Advanced Practice it will show as an authorization on your Practice Permit and the Registry.

Registration is mandatory when you meet the requirements for registration and intend to provide dental assisting services directly to the public.¹

1.Health Professions Act, RSA 2000, c H-7, s 46