Proof of Training — Certificate from CODA-accredited program or documentation of on-the-job training hours.
DANB Certification — Official CDA certification from the Dental Assisting National Board, if applicable.
Radiography Certification — Proof of radiography competency/certification required for taking x-rays.
Application fee — $10
How to Apply
Understand Missouri's Requirements
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Confirm that Missouri does not require general dental assistant licensure. If seeking qualification for advanced functions (such as Nitrous Oxide Monitoring, Restorative I/II, or Local Anesthesia Administration), ensure you meet specific educational, examination, and/or experience criteria outlined by the Missouri Dental Board.
Download Application Form
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Navigate to the Missouri Dental Board Application Forms page (https://scm.dpr.mo.gov/dental/apply.asp) and download the specific PDF application form corresponding to the advanced function qualification you are seeking.
Complete Application and Gather Documents
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Fill out the downloaded PDF application thoroughly. Collect all necessary supporting documents, which typically include proof of approved course completion, examination results, and a current Basic Life Support (BLS) for healthcare providers certification.
Prepare Application Fee
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Include a check or money order, made payable to the Missouri Dental Board, for the non-refundable application fee (e.g., $30.00 for Nitrous Oxide Monitoring or Restorative I/II).
Submit Application Packet
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Mail the completed application form, all original or certified copies of supporting documentation, and the application fee to the Missouri Dental Board's mailing address for processing.
Total Fee
$10
Processing Time
2 to 4 Weeks
Fingerprints
Required
Temp License
Not available
Transfer License
Contact the Missouri Dental Board for current transfer requirements.
Steps
Submit Your Application
▾
Apply through the Missouri Dental Board. The application fee is $10.
Provide License Verification
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Missouri requires official verification of your active out-of-state license. This must be sent directly to the board from your current state board or its official online verification system before your file can be considered complete.
Provide Proof of Training
▾
Certificate from CODA-accredited program or documentation of on-the-job training hours.
Provide DANB Certification
▾
Official CDA certification from the Dental Assisting National Board, if applicable.
Provide Radiography Certification
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Proof of radiography competency/certification required for taking x-rays.
Await Board Processing
▾
Plan for a processing timeline of about 2 to 4 Weeks once your file is complete. If you need to start working immediately, most states do not offer temporary practice authorization during the endorsement process. Contact the state board directly for current policies on practice authorization while your application is pending.
Total Fee
Contact board
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Compact
No
Board
Missouri Dental Board
Keeping Your License Active
Missouri Dental Assistant licenses renew Every 2 years. Contact the Missouri Dental Board for continuing education requirements and renewal deadlines.
Fees
Item
Amount
Application
$10
Endorsement application
$10
Slow Downs
Missing or incomplete documents
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Have all your documents ready before starting the application to avoid processing delays.
Application errors
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Double-check that your name matches across all documents exactly. Mismatches are a common reason for delays.
Missouri-specific note
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Missouri may require verification of specific expanded functions training, and documentation from out-of-state programs is often delayed.
Questions
Does Missouri require a dental assistant license?
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Yes, Missouri requires Expanded Functions Dental Assistant through the state board.
Is DANB certification recognized in Missouri?
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Yes, DANB CDA certification is recognized and often preferred by employers in Missouri.
Can I take dental x-rays in Missouri?
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Yes, but a radiography permit or certification is required.
How much does it cost to become a dental assistant in Missouri?
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State application fees are $10. Additional costs may include DANB CDA exam ($450), radiography certification, and background check fees.