Dental Assistant Schools
Dental Assistant Programs in Jacksonville, Florida
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Becoming a Dental Assistant in Jacksonville, Florida
If you’re considering a career as a Dental Assistant in Jacksonville, Florida, you’re embarking on a path that combines patient care, technical skills, and a dynamic work environment. Dental Assistants play a crucial role in dental practices, supporting dentists, ensuring patient comfort, and maintaining efficient operations. This guide will walk you through the steps to becoming a Dental Assistant in Jacksonville, including education paths, certification requirements, and local employment opportunities.
About Jacksonville
Jacksonville, Florida, is a bustling city known for its extensive park system, beautiful beaches, and rich cultural scene. As the largest city by area in the contiguous United States, Jacksonville offers a diverse range of neighborhoods and communities. From the historic district of Riverside to the coastal charm of Jacksonville Beach, there’s something for everyone. For more information about the city, visit the official Jacksonville website.
Dental Assistant Training Programs in Jacksonville, Florida
To become a Dental Assistant in Jacksonville, you’ll need to complete a training program approved by the Florida Board of Dentistry. Here are some local options:
- Florida State College at Jacksonville (FSCJ)
- Location: Downtown Campus
- Program: FSCJ offers a comprehensive Dental Assisting program that includes both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience. The program is designed to prepare students for the Expanded Functions Dental Assistant (EFDA) certification.
- FSCJ Dental Assisting Program
- Concorde Career Institute
- Location: Arlington
- Program: Concorde offers an 8-month Dental Assisting program that covers essential skills and knowledge, including dental radiography and EFDA certification.
- Concorde Career Institute Dental Assisting Program
- Florida Institute of Dental Assisting
- Location: Southside
- Program: This institute provides a 6-month program focused on practical skills and certifications required for dental assistants in Florida.
- Florida Institute of Dental Assisting Program
Dental Assistant Employment Opportunities in Jacksonville
Jacksonville is home to numerous dental offices and clinics offering employment opportunities for Dental Assistants. Here are a few notable ones:
- Aspen Dental
- Location: Southside
- Description: Aspen Dental is part of a national network providing comprehensive dental care. They offer various career opportunities for Dental Assistants.
- Aspen Dental Careers
- Coast Dental
- Location: Mandarin
- Description: Coast Dental provides a wide range of dental services and has multiple locations throughout Jacksonville, offering numerous job opportunities.
- Coast Dental Careers
- Greenberg Dental & Orthodontics
- Location: Westside
- Description: Known for their family-friendly services, Greenberg Dental offers positions for Dental Assistants across their Jacksonville locations.
- Greenberg Dental Careers
Prerequisites for Dental Assistant Programs
To enroll in a Dental Assistant program in Jacksonville, you typically need to meet the following prerequisites:
- Age: Must be 18 years or older.
- Education: High school diploma or GED.
- Background Check: A criminal background check is often required.
- Medical Status: Proof of vaccinations, including Hepatitis B and Tetanus.
Dental Assistant Certification Requirements in Florida
In Florida, Dental Assistants must obtain specific certifications to perform certain tasks:
- Expanded Functions Dental Assistant (EFDA) Certification: Required for advanced tasks, obtainable through approved training.
- Dental Radiography Certification: Necessary for operating x-ray equipment, requiring completion of a board-approved course.
- BLS/CPR/AED Certification: Essential for healthcare professionals, often included in training programs.
For more information, visit the Florida Board of Dentistry.
Get Started Today
Embarking on a career as a Dental Assistant in Jacksonville, Florida, offers a rewarding opportunity to work in a dynamic and growing field. With the right training and certifications, you can join a team of healthcare professionals dedicated to improving patient care. Contact a local school today to learn more about their Dental Assistant programs and take the first step towards your new career.
For more information on the job outlook for Dental Assistants, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics.