Dental Assistant Schools and Colleges

Dental Assistant Schools and Colleges

How do I find the right dental assistant school?

The best dental assistant school is the school that not only fits your schedule and budget, but also provides the best education. Start by identifying schools that have received accreditation from a nationally recognized accreditation service agency. Some easy to sight aspects of reputable schools include the school’s name and status, the school’s history, teachers’ credentials, and the network of alumni.

Also take into consideration some of the following factors:

  • Admission and residency requirements
  • Class teaching styles and methods of testing
  • Course content and presentation
  • Program length and class availability
  • Class size and student-teacher interaction
  • Tuition and availability of financial aid
  • Transferability of credits

What levels of dental assistant programs are available? How long until I complete my program?

Several degree and certification programs are available in both on-campus and online forms. The length of your education depends on the type of program you pursue and the pace of your schedule. Typically, the breakdown is as follows:

  • (Online) Dental assistant certification programs – 6 months to 1 year
  • (Online) Dental assistant associate’s degree – 2 years

Are there any examples of online dental assistant courses?

Certificate programs help students develop competencies in general dentistry processes and functions, including:

  • Dental Terminology - Though many dental assistant positions allow employees to learn on the job, an understanding of dental terminology learned while earning a top online dental assistant degree can set applicants apart. Educated assistants will understand how to read and maintain precise records at a faster pace.
  • Dental Hygiene - A dental assistant is often questioned about proper dental hygiene by patients. In order to earn the best online dental assistant degree, students will have to learn how to answer these questions accurately and promptly.
  • Dental X-Rays - Accredited online dental assistant degrees often require lessons on how to use x-ray machines on the jaw and teeth.
  • Medical Transcription - Sometimes a dental assistant is responsible for reading and managing dental records. An accredited online dental assistant school will often teach their students how to handle commonly used medical record programs.
  • Laboratory Work - Many dental assistant degrees offer opportunities for hands-on experience, including lab-related dental work.

Training and qualifications

Assistants can receive on-the-job training; however, an increasing number of dental assistants are trained in formal training programs. Assistants act as a second pair of hands for dentists – dentists seek assistants who are reliable, courteous, and can help with the technical aspects of dentistry.

Although no national standard is placed on dental assistants, most states regulate the duties dental assistants can perform through statewide registration or licensing procedures. These processes usually require aspiring dental assistants to pass a written or practical exam. The Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) provides a certification program that is recognized or required in more than 30 states.

Applicants must also have current and valid certification in cardiopulmonary resuscitation.

Without further education, advancement opportunities are limited. Some dental assistants become office managers, dental-assisting instructors, or dental product sales representatives. Others go back to school to become dental hygienists. For many, this entry-level occupation provides basic training and experience and serves as a stepping-stone to more highly skilled and higher paying jobs.

Length of training and requirements

Entry-level dental assistant positions are available to individuals with high school diplomas or its GED equivalent. Assistants taking this path require intensive on-the-job training, as these individuals have not completed any formal training in a relevant field. Accredited dental assisting training programs prepare students for certification and take one year or less to complete. Training programs include instruction in oral and dental anatomy, dental radiography, clinical procedures, nutrition, community dentistry, and dental office management. Clinical experience is obtained in affiliated dental schools, local clinics, or selected dental offices.

In some states, such as Florida, a dental radiology certificate is required before an assistant can expose radiographs. Some states also require dental assistants to complete formal training before certain job responsibilities can be carried out. Completion of formal training programs allow assistants to perform selected tasks such as applying sealants, placing temporary crowns, removing sutures, and taking impressions.

Career advancement
Dental assistants can readily advance their careers. Many go on to become practice managers, practice consultants, and regional directors of corporate dental practices. Others successfully pursue dental marketing careers with dental equipment and supply companies. Graduates of American Dental Association (ADA) accredited dentistry programs can eventually become dental hygienists.