Arizona School Of Dental Assisting Embraces Expanded Career Pathways With New State Law
By Jonathan Eberle |
A new law is opening the door for expanded career opportunities in dental care, and the Arizona School of Dental Assisting (ASDA) is welcoming the change.
Senate Bill 1124, signed into law on March 31, 2025, officially establishes the position of Oral Preventive Assistant (OPA), a new role that broadens the scope of practice for dental assistants in Arizona. The law aims to enhance preventive care services while addressing workforce shortages in the dental field.
Under the legislation, dental assistants can qualify to become OPAs by completing a board-approved training program totaling at least 120 hours of clinical and classroom instruction. Applicants must also hold certifications in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), coronal polishing, and radiography, along with either a national certification in dental assisting or a diploma from an accredited dental assisting program.
Once certified, OPAs will be allowed to perform certain preventive services on patients evaluated by a licensed dentist or dental hygienist. The law limits such procedures to individuals who are periodontally healthy or exhibit mild, localized gingivitis.
The Arizona School of Dental Assisting says it is ready to help students meet the new requirements and seize the opportunity to grow within the profession.
“Our curriculum is designed to build a strong foundation of skills and knowledge,” the school said in a statement. “By equipping future dental professionals with the tools and education they need to pursue certification and the 120-hour course advancement, ASDA continues to play a vital role in supporting Arizona’s dental workforce.”
Lisa Stevenson, ASDA’s CEO and founder, urged students to take full advantage of the new pathway. “Don’t be afraid to give up the good to go for the great,” she said, encouraging future OPAs to invest in their education and embrace the potential of this expanded role.
The new law is expected to not only provide professional growth for dental assistants, but also improve access to preventive dental care across the state—especially in underserved areas.
Jonathan Eberle is a reporter for AZ Free News. You can send him news tips using this link.