Dental Assistant Training Programs
Dental assisting can be a very rewarding career. To pursue a degree in this field, it is important to choose the right dental assistant training program.
Choose the Right One
Dental Assistant Courses
Top dental assistant training programs will consist of both classroom and laboratory experiences.
A leading program will also have an internship program where the student will work at a local dental office to gain practical work experience during their education.
These internships will be essential for gaining employment after graduation, as the experience gained during this part of the program is invaluable.
Accreditation
The first thing a person should look for when considering this type of program is accreditation. It is important to attend an accredited program because these schools are regulated to meet certain educational standards.
There are three main accreditation agencies for dental assistant training programs: the Dental Assisting National Board, the Commission on Dental Accreditation, and the American Dental Assistants Association (ADAA).
Attending a school that is accredited by one of these agencies can increase base salary and ensure certification.
Find Best College and Courses
Top Education
Courses 2021/22
We are ready to help you to learn any topic you are interested in.
Types of Dental Assisting Programs
Onsite Programs
Most local community colleges and vocational schools offer dental assistant training programs. These courses are typically associate degree programs, requiring around two years to complete.
Some local colleges offer certificate programs as well, which can be completed in eight to twelve months. These programs typically have flexible scheduling options, but a student choosing an onsite program must be prepared to attend classes each week at the same time.
Online Programs
For adults choosing to go back to school and need a more flexible option to obtain their dental assisting degree, online programs may be a better choice. Online programs allow individuals to work through the course at their own pace from the comfort of their own home.
An online program’s required classes are usually the same as the required courses from onsite dental assistant training programs. However, some online schools have streamlined their methods so an individual will only take classes directly related to the field, which can speed up obtaining their degree.
Dental Assistant Frequently Asked Questions
Dental assisting could be the right career for you. A dental assistant is an important job because you will be helping others. In many cases, you will perform teeth cleaning procedures, clean and sterilize equipment, teach patients the proper way to clean teeth and floss, and so much more. It can be a rewarding career, but it is important to receive formal training through college. It is possible to receive hands-on training through your employer, but an employer often wants you to have at least some training beforehand.
The dental assistant courses you will need depend on many things. First, you should consider whether you want a certificate of completion or a degree in dental assisting. If you want a degree (Associates, Bachelor, or greater), you will need more training and will need to take general courses and dental courses. If you only want a completion or equivalent certificate, you will focus mainly on your career courses and not need as many general courses. Many people choose the certificate of completion to join the workforce in as few as six months immediately. Then they usually decide to work toward a degree on a part-time basis while working in their field.
Southern California Health Institute
Southern California Health Institute (SOCHi) is a leading medical coding school that offers the comprehensive, hands-on training you need for medical coding careers.
Florida Technical College
- Orlando, FL 32826, USA
- ftccollege.edu
FTC was founded in 1982 to provide post-secondary training in specialized business fields. Florida Technical College programs are exciting and dynamic, evolving over the years to meet the needs of students and the job marketplace
New York Institute of Career
NYICD offers nationally-accredited online career courses that conveniently fit your busy schedule. Get certified in a new field in a matter of months and start the new career you deserve.
Career Quest
Career Quest is career courage, confidence, creativity—so don’t wait any longer to take the first step to leveling up your professional life.
Healthcare Training Institute
As a medical technical school in NJ, Healthcare Training Institute provides career training for some of the most in-demand healthcare professions.
Southwest Wisconsin College
Southwest Wisconsin Technical
College offers distance students one of the best online health information technology associate degrees.
Minnesota State College
M State offers one of the best online medical billing and coding associate degrees for distance students. Located in Fergus Falls, Minnesota, M State is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and serves approximately 6,500 students.
Central Maine Community College
- Auburn, Maine, USA
- cmcc.edu
CMCC is a community college located in Auburn, Maine. Established in 1963, the school currently enrolls about 3,000 students and offers one of the best online medical billing and coding associate degrees.