In Virginia, the opportunity for a CDA to advance to the DAII status is very difficult.  The CDA that has the passion and desire to perform expanded duties and has the years of experience in the dental office, has no where to go to get the DAII licensure or the opportunity is very limited.  By allowing direct training and supervision by the dentist, duties can be delegated to the assistant thus increasing their passion for dentistry.  A CDA that is allowed to contribute to the quality care of their patients becomes a vital team member of the practice and develops the confidence to do more.  The more qualified assistants available the less stress the dentist experiences.  Even if a dentist hires a licensed DAII in Virginia, he or she must prove they are qualified to perform the duties delegated them to the satisfaction of the dentist.  Usually training is still required by the dentist even if the DAII is licensed, in order to meet that particular dentist's standard of care.  A CDA that has dedicated years to a career in dentistry, and has a personal desire to do the work should , in my opinion, be given the opportunity.  I have been a CDA for 40 years and have dedicated my life's work to dentistry.  I feel fully qualified to be given the legal opportunity to perform duties I have assisted with for 40 years.  A well qualified assistant is someone that most dentist would like to utilize more, so why not let them take that responsibility to properly train them to their advantage.  I think if young DA's had a dentist to mentor and train them every one would win!

Donna T. Smith, CDA

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