Dental Assistant Schools
Dental Assistant Programs
Comprehensive Guide to Becoming a Dental Assistant
Are you considering a career that combines healthcare and office administration? Dental assisting might be the perfect fit for you! This rewarding profession offers job stability and ample opportunities for advancement. Let’s dive into everything you need to know to embark on this exciting career path.
What is a Dental Assistant?
Dental assistants are the unsung heroes of dental offices, playing a crucial role in patient care and office operations. They work alongside dentists and dental hygienists, handling a wide range of clinical and administrative tasks. From preparing patients for procedures to managing office records, dental assistants are essential team members in any dental practice.
Why Choose Dental Assisting as a Career?
The dental assisting field is booming! According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of dental assistants is projected to grow 7 percent from 2019 to 2029, faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is driven by ongoing research linking oral health to general health, which is expected to increase the demand for preventive dental services.
But it’s not just about job security. Dental assisting offers:
– A dynamic work environment
– Opportunities to help people improve their oral health
– A stepping stone to other dental careers
– A balance of clinical and administrative work
How to Become a Dental Assistant
Step 1: Meet the Educational Requirements
High School Diploma or GED
The minimum educational requirement for becoming a dental assistant is a high school diploma or GED. However, most employers prefer candidates who have completed a formal dental assisting program.
Dental Assisting Programs
To stand out in the job market, consider enrolling in a dental assisting program at a vocational school, community college, or technical school. These programs typically take 9-12 months to complete and include both classroom instruction and clinical experience.
What will you learn in a dental assisting program?
- Classroom Instruction:
- Oral anatomy
- Dental materials
- Dental office administration
- Dental radiography
- Infection control
- Dental pharmacology
- Clinical Experience: Get hands-on training in a real dental office, applying your classroom knowledge to real-world situations.
Step 2: Get Certified
While not mandatory in all states, certification can give you a significant edge in the job market. The Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) offers the Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) Exam, which covers:
- General chairside assisting
- Radiation health and safety
- Infection control
Did you know? According to DANB’s 2020-2021 Dental Assistants Salary and Satisfaction Survey, CDAs earned a median salary of $22.09 per hour, compared to $20.00 per hour for non-certified dental assistants. That’s a significant difference!
Step 3: Check Your State’s Requirements
Some states require dental assistants to be licensed, registered, or certified for entry or advancement, especially for specialized tasks like radiography. Don’t forget to check your state’s specific requirements through the Dental Assisting National Board’s state-specific information.
What Skills Do You Need to Succeed as a Dental Assistant?
To thrive in this career, you’ll need a mix of technical and human skills:
Technical Skills
- Attention to detail
- Ability to multitask
- Manual dexterity
- Proficiency with dental software and equipment
Human Skills
- Excellent communication
- Teamwork
- Compassionate patient care
- Basic life support (CPR and first aid)
- Time management
What Does a Dental Assistant Do?
Dental assistants wear many hats in their day-to-day work. Here’s a breakdown of their typical responsibilities:
Clinical Responsibilities
- Preparing patients for dental procedures
- Sterilizing instruments and preparing dental materials
- Assisting the dentist during procedures
- Taking and developing dental X-rays
- Educating patients on oral hygiene
- Applying topical anesthetics
- Taking dental impressions
Administrative Responsibilities
- Maintaining patient records
- Scheduling appointments
- Assisting with billing and insurance claims
- Cleaning and stocking treatment rooms
- Inventory management
- Reception duties
Career Advancement Opportunities
Dental assisting can be a launching pad for various career paths within the dental field:
- Specialization: Explore areas like orthodontics, pediatric dentistry, or other dental specialties.
- Advanced Roles: With additional education and training, you could become:
- A dental office manager
- A dental hygienist
- A dental sales representative
- A dental laboratory technician
- Even a dentist (with significant additional education)
According to the American Dental Association, some dental assistants choose to pursue further education to become dental hygienists or even dentists. The sky’s the limit!
How to Choose the Right Dental Assisting Program
When selecting a dental assisting program, keep these factors in mind:
- Accreditation: Look for programs accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA). CODA-accredited programs meet high standards of quality and prepare you for certification exams.
Program Components: Ensure the program includes both classroom and clinical training, and possibly an internship for practical experience.
Faculty Experience: Prefer programs where faculty have real-world experience in dental assisting.
Cost and Financial Aid: Compare program costs and explore financial aid options, including scholarships and grants.
Location and Schedule: Consider whether the program’s location and schedule fit your needs, including options for part-time or online study.
Top US Schools Offering Accredited Dental Assistant Programs
Midlands Technical College
- Location: 1260 Lexington Drive, West Columbia, SC 29170
- Dental Assisting Program Page
- Program Length: 1 year (full-time)
- Cost: Approximately $7,000 for in-state students (tuition and fees)
- What sets it apart: Comprehensive program combining classroom instruction with hands-on laboratory and clinical experiences.
- Portland Community College
- Location: 12000 SW 49th Ave, Portland, OR 97219
- Dental Assisting Program Page
- Program Length: 3 terms (full-time)
- Cost: Approximately $5,500 for in-state students (tuition and fees)
- What sets it apart: One-year certificate program with a strong focus on practical, hands-on training.
- Trident Technical College
- Location: 7000 Rivers Ave, North Charleston, SC 29406
- Dental Assisting Program Page
- Program Length: 3 semesters (full-time)
- Cost: Approximately $6,000 for in-state students (tuition and fees)
- What sets it apart: Diploma program offering a balance of classroom instruction, laboratory practice, and clinical experiences.
Ready to Start Your Dental Assisting Career?
Becoming a dental assistant can be an excellent entry point into the healthcare field, offering a stable career with opportunities for growth and specialization. By completing an accredited program, obtaining certification, and developing the necessary skills, you can position yourself for success in this rewarding profession.
Remember to research your state’s specific requirements and choose a program that aligns with your career goals and personal circumstances. With dedication and the right education, you’ll be well on your way to a fulfilling career in dental assisting!