General Chairside vs NYPDA: Understanding the Difference in Dental Assisting Certifications
General Chairside vs NYPDA: Understanding the Difference in Dental Assisting Certifications
When exploring dental assisting careers, it’s common to hear about the DANB General Chairside (GC) Exam and NYPDA (New York Professional Dental Assisting) certification. Both represent professional achievement, but they serve different purposes and apply to different regions of practice.
General Chairside (GC) Certification
The General Chairside Assisting (GC) exam is one of the three parts of the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) credential. It is a national exam recognized across the United States. The GC section tests a candidate’s knowledge of patient care, dental procedures, instrument handling, and team coordination during treatment.
Passing the GC, along with the Radiation Health and Safety (RHS) and Infection Control (ICE) exams, earns a dental assistant the full CDA title. This national certification can improve job opportunities, salary potential, and career mobility across states.
The GC focuses on:
• Chairside procedures and clinical techniques
• Patient management and comfort
• Dental charting and recordkeeping
• Materials, instruments, and workflow efficiency
• Communication and team roles in a dental setting
NYPDA Certification
The New York Professional Dental Assisting (NYPDA) certification is a New York–based credential typically offered through schools or programs approved by the New York State Education Department (NYSED). It is designed to meet state-specific requirements for dental assistants working in New York.
NYPDA-certified assistants receive training in areas such as radiography, infection control, dental materials, and patient care. The program aligns with New York State law, which distinguishes between a Dental Assistant and a Licensed Certified Dental Assistant (LCDA)—a higher level of credential that may require passing the DANB exam or an equivalent NYSED-approved exam.
Key Differences
FeatureGeneral Chairside (GC)NYPDA CertificationIssued byDental Assisting National Board (DANB)New York Professional Dental Assisting program (NYSED approved)RecognitionNationalState-specific (New York only)ComponentsOne part of the CDA (requires GC, ICE, RHS)Comprehensive state-based dental assisting trainingCareer MobilityRecognized nationwidePrimarily valid within New YorkFocusExam-based national certificationProgram-based practical and academic certification
Choosing Between Them
If you plan to work in New York State and attend a local dental assisting school, NYPDA certification meets local job requirements and is ideal for starting your career. However, if you want the flexibility to work in other states or aim for a national credential, completing the DANB exams—including the General Chairside component—is the better path.
If you're searching for more than just a job, moreover, a career with stability, respect, and long-term potential; then becoming a licensed dental assistant could be your perfect path forward. Furthermore, it's not just a fast-track into the workforce; it's a gateway to a profession that’s always in demand, deeply trusted, and personally rewarding. When you're ready to take that next step, one school rises above the rest: The New York School for Medical and Dental Assistants. Furthermore, with a reputation for hands-on training, dedicated instructors, and real-world readiness, it’s the smart choice for turning ambition into achievement. Lastly, The New York School for Medical and Dental Assistants stands out as the premier institution in the state. It’s the smart choice for anyone ready to invest in a future in healthcare.
Contact NYSMDA today and get your career started!
