Dental Assistant Schools
Dental Assistant Programs in San Diego, California
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Becoming a Dental Assistant in San Diego, California
If you’re considering a career as a Dental Assistant in San Diego, California, you’re on the right path to joining a rewarding and growing field. Dental Assistants play a crucial role in dental practices, providing support to dentists and ensuring patients receive high-quality care. This guide will walk you through the steps to becoming a Dental Assistant in San Diego, including education paths, certification requirements, and local training programs.
About San Diego
San Diego, known for its beautiful beaches, diverse neighborhoods, and rich cultural history, is a fantastic place to start your career as a Dental Assistant. With landmarks like Balboa Park and the historic Gaslamp Quarter, San Diego offers a unique blend of urban and coastal living. For more information about the city, visit the official San Diego website.
Dental Assistant Training Programs in San Diego, California
San Diego offers several reputable Dental Assistant programs to help you get started in your career. Here are three local schools offering Dental Assistant training:
- San Diego Mesa College
Located in the Clairemont neighborhood, San Diego Mesa College offers a comprehensive Dental Assisting program. The program is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) and prepares students for certification and employment. Learn more about their program. Concorde Career College
Situated in the Kearny Mesa area, Concorde Career College provides a Dental Assistant program designed to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge for the field. The program includes hands-on training and preparation for certification exams. Explore their program.UEI College
Located in the Chula Vista neighborhood, UEI College offers a Dental Assistant program that focuses on practical skills and real-world experience. The program is designed to be completed in as few as 10 months. Find out more about UEI’s program.
Dental Assistant Employment Opportunities in San Diego
San Diego is home to numerous dental offices and clinics where Dental Assistants can find employment. Here are a few notable facilities:
- Rady Children’s Hospital – Dental Clinic
Located in the Serra Mesa neighborhood, Rady Children’s Hospital offers specialized dental care for children. They provide opportunities for Dental Assistants to work in a pediatric setting. Visit their careers page. San Diego Dental Health Center
Situated in the Hillcrest area, this clinic offers a range of dental services and frequently seeks skilled Dental Assistants to join their team. Check their employment opportunities.La Jolla Dental Group
Located in the La Jolla neighborhood, this dental group provides comprehensive dental care and often hires Dental Assistants to support their practice. Explore their career options.
Prerequisites for Dental Assistant Programs
To enroll in a Dental Assistant program in San Diego, you typically need to meet the following prerequisites:
- High school diploma or GED equivalent
- Minimum age of 18 years
- Completion of any required entrance exams
- Background check and medical clearance
Dental Assistant Certification Requirements in California
In California, Dental Assistants must meet specific certification requirements:
- Graduate from a Board-Approved Program: Complete a program approved by the Dental Board of California (DBC) or CODA.
- Alternative Pathways: Gain 15 months of work experience or complete a four-month educational program and 11 months of work experience.
- Required Courses: Complete courses in coronal polishing, radiation safety, the Dental Practice Act, infection control, and basic life support.
- Licensing: Submit an application for licensure, pass the RDA examination, and complete a background check.
- Certifications: Consider obtaining Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) certification for additional credentials.
For more detailed information, visit the Dental Board of California’s website.
Get Started Today
Embarking on a career as a Dental Assistant in San Diego is a promising choice. With the right training and certification, you can join a field that offers both personal and professional growth. Contact a local school today to begin your journey toward becoming a Dental Assistant.
For more information on the job outlook for Dental Assistants, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics.