February 6, 2026 | Manitoba

Dental assisting is a practical, patient-focused profession with opportunities to work directly alongside dentists in clinical settings. But before you start, it helps to understand exactly how the process works in Manitoba, especially the training, certification, and registration steps required to practise legally. 

This guide breaks down the process into clear steps so you know what to expect on your path to becoming a dental assistant in Manitoba. 

What Is an Intra-Oral Dental Assistant? 

An Intra-Oral Dental Assistant is a dental assistant who is trained to work directly inside the patient’s mouth while assisting a dentist during clinical procedures. This includes chairside support during treatments, handling dental instruments, maintaining a sterile field, and supporting patient care throughout appointments. 

In Manitoba, the term Intra-Oral Dental Assistant is commonly used by training institutions to describe the scope of clinical training, not a separate profession. In practice, Intra-Oral Dental Assistant and Dental Assistant refer to the same role in Manitoba dental offices. 

What matters most is not the title, but whether the assistant has completed an approved dental assistant education program that prepares them for intra-oral duties under a dentist’s supervision. 

Intra-oral training typically prepares students to: 

• Assist dentists during restorative and preventive procedures 
• Work chairside during treatments 
• Follow strict infection prevention and control standards 
• Support patient comfort and safety during clinical care 

What Skills a Dental Assistant Need? 

Dental assistants support dentists during patient care, helping with everything from preparing treatment rooms to assisting in clinical procedures.  

Assistants may work in: 

• General dental offices 
• Specialty clinics (orthodontics, surgery, etc.) 
• Community health settings 

You’ll need:  

• Strong communication skills  
• Attention to detail  
• A steady, organized approach to clinical work 

How to Become a Dental Assistant in Manitoba: A Step-by-Step Guide 

Step 1: Meet the Necessary High School Requirements 

Admission into a dental assisting program normally requires: 

• A high school diploma (Grade 12) or equivalent 
• Recommended coursework in science or biology 
• English proficiency 

Meeting these basics helps ensure you’re prepared for both the academic and practical components of dental training. 

Step 2: Complete an Approved Dental Assistant Program 

The most important educational step is completing an approved dental assisting program. The program combines classroom instruction with hands-on training, so you gain real dental assisting skills. 

Like CDI College’s Intra-Oral Dental Assistant  Diploma Program in Winnipeg includes: 

• Clinical skill development 
• Patient preparation 
• Infection prevention and control 
• Radiography processing 
• Administrative procedures 
• Hands-on practicum experience in dental environments  

CDI College program is designed to meet industry standards and prepare students for professional certification and employment. 

Step 3: Pass the National Certification (NDAEB) Exam

After graduating from an approved dental assisting program, most graduates choose to pursue national certification through the National Dental Assisting Examining Board (NDAEB). While requirements may vary slightly by province, the NDAEB certificate is widely recognized and often required for professional registration.  

In Manitoba, the NDAEB certificate is required for new graduates who want to register with the provincial regulatory authority. It demonstrates that you have met national standards for knowledge and clinical skills. 

The NDAEB process includes: 

• Written and practical examinations 
• Evidence of completion of formal training in dental assisting 

Preparing for and passing this exam is a key step in becoming a Registered Dental Assistant. CDI College Manitoba Intra-Oral Dental Assistant graduates had a proven high NDAEB exam passing rate. 

Step 4: Register and Get Licensed with the Manitoba Dental Association 

To practise legally as a registered dental assistant in Manitoba, you must complete the registration and licensing process with the Manitoba Dental Association (MDA). The MDA is the provincial body that regulates dental assistants and dentists to protect public safety.  

The registration steps generally include: 

• Providing proof of graduation from an approved program 
• Submitting your NDAEB certificate 
• Completing the MDA application and meeting any regulatory requirements 
• Paying registration fees 

Once accepted, you become a Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) licensed to work in dental settings across the province. 

Step 5: Complete Additional Requirements (If Needed) 

In addition to education and exams: 

• The MDA may require immunization records or health clearances 
• A criminal record check is often part of admission into dental assisting programs 
• First aid and CPR certification may be recommended 

Always check the latest requirements with the Manitoba Dental Association and your training institution for up-to-date conditions.  

The Intra-Oral Dental Assistant Diploma Program at CDI College in Manitoba includes CPR and First Aid training, allowing students to graduate with these essential healthcare credentials already completed. This helps streamline entry into clinical placements and professional practice. 

Step 6: Develop Practical Skills Through Clinical Experience 

A practicum or clinical placement, giving you supervised experience working in a dental environment. This hands-on experience is one of the most valuable parts of your training, as it allows you to: 

• Assist dentists with real procedures 
• Practice infection control techniques 
• Experience typical dental office workflows 
• Build confidence working with patients 

Program like the one at CDI College include structured clinical placements as part of their curriculum.  

Step 7: Begin Your Career as a Dental Assistant 

After completing your education, passing the NDAEB exam, and becoming registered with the MDA, you are ready to work as a dental assistant in Manitoba. 

Dental assistants are employed in: 

• Private dental practices 
• Public health clinics 
• Specialty care clinics 
• Educational or research settings 

Your registration and licensure help ensure you are recognized as competent and qualified to assist in patient care and clinical procedures. 

Final Thoughts 

Becoming a dental assistant in Manitoba means following a structured path from education to national examination and provincial registration. Each step builds your knowledge and skills so you can confidently support dentists and care for patients in a clinical setting. 

This profession emphasizes teamwork, precision, and patient communication. With the right training and credentials, you’ll join a vital part of the dental healthcare team and help deliver quality oral care across the province.