Dental Assistant Schools
Dental Assistant Programs in St. Petersburg, Florida
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Becoming a Dental Assistant in St. Petersburg, Florida
Are you considering a career as a Dental Assistant in St. Petersburg, Florida? This guide will walk you through the steps to becoming a Dental Assistant, including the educational paths, certification requirements, and local training programs available. Dental Assistants play a crucial role in dental care, providing support to dentists and ensuring patient comfort. Whether you are just starting your career or looking to make a change, understanding the process and requirements in St. Petersburg is essential.
About St. Petersburg
St. Petersburg, located on Florida’s Gulf Coast, is known for its beautiful beaches, cultural attractions, and thriving arts scene. As part of the Tampa Bay Area, St. Petersburg offers a diverse range of neighborhoods, from the historic Old Northeast to the bustling downtown area. For more information about the city, visit the official St. Petersburg website.
Dental Assistant Training Programs in St. Petersburg, Florida
If you’re looking to enroll in a Dental Assistant program in St. Petersburg, here are some local options:
- St. Petersburg College (SPC)
- Located in the heart of St. Petersburg, SPC offers a Dental Assisting program accredited by the American Dental Association. The program includes classroom instruction, lab work, and clinical experience. For more details, visit the SPC Dental Assisting program page.
- Pinellas Technical College (PTC)
- Situated in nearby Clearwater, PTC provides a comprehensive Dental Assisting program that covers both basic and expanded functions. The program is designed to prepare students for the EFDA certification. Learn more at the PTC Dental Assisting program page.
- Ultimate Medical Academy (UMA)
- UMA offers an online Dental Assistant program with hands-on training components. While based in Tampa, the program is accessible to St. Petersburg residents and includes externship opportunities. Visit the UMA Dental Assistant program page for more information.
Dental Assistant Employment Opportunities in St. Petersburg
St. Petersburg hosts several dental offices and clinics where Dental Assistants can find employment:
- St. Petersburg Dental Center
- Located in the Tyrone area, this facility offers comprehensive dental services and frequently seeks qualified Dental Assistants. Explore opportunities at the St. Petersburg Dental Center website.
- Coast Dental St. Petersburg
- Situated in the Gateway neighborhood, Coast Dental provides a wide range of dental services and values skilled Dental Assistants. Check their career page for job openings.
- Aspen Dental
- With a location in the South Pasadena area, Aspen Dental is part of a national network offering various dental services. They often have openings for Dental Assistants. Visit the Aspen Dental careers page for more information.
Prerequisites for Dental Assistant Programs
To enroll in a Dental Assistant program in St. Petersburg, you typically need to meet the following prerequisites:
– Be at least 18 years old.
– Completion of an accredited program by the ADA or approved by the Florida Board of Dentistry.
– Some programs may require a high school diploma or GED, while others do not.
Dental Assistant Certification Requirements in Florida
In Florida, Dental Assistants must obtain specific certifications to perform certain duties:
– EFDA Certification: Required for advanced duties, obtainable through a Florida Board of Dentistry-approved program.
– Dental Radiography Certification: Requires board-approved training or on-the-job experience.
– CPR Certification: Must be current, from organizations like the American Heart Association.
For more information, visit the Florida Board of Dentistry.
Get Started Today
Embarking on a career as a Dental Assistant in St. Petersburg, Florida, is an exciting opportunity. With the right training and certifications, you can join a rewarding field that offers growth and stability. Contact a local school today to learn more about their 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 Dental Assistants page.