Dental Assistant Programs in Omaha, Nebraska

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Becoming a Dental Assistant in Omaha, Nebraska

If you’re considering a career as a Dental Assistant in Omaha, Nebraska, you’re stepping into a rewarding field that offers a variety of opportunities. Dental Assistants play a crucial role in dental practices, providing support to dentists and ensuring that patients receive quality care. This guide will walk you through the process of becoming a Dental Assistant in Omaha, including education paths, certification requirements, and local training programs.

About Omaha

Omaha, Nebraska, is a bustling city known for its rich history and cultural landmarks. As the largest city in Nebraska, Omaha offers a diverse range of neighborhoods and attractions, including the historic Old Market district and the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium. For more information about Omaha, visit the official city website.

Dental Assistant Training Programs in Omaha, Nebraska

Omaha is home to several educational institutions offering Dental Assistant programs. Here are three local schools where you can pursue your training:

1. Metropolitan Community College
   Located in the heart of Omaha, Metropolitan Community College offers a comprehensive Dental Assisting program. The program is designed to provide students with the skills needed for entry-level positions in dental offices. For more information, visit the Dental Assisting program page.

2. Creighton University
   Situated in the vibrant downtown area, Creighton University offers a Dental Assisting program that emphasizes both clinical and administrative skills. The program is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA). Learn more about their offerings on the Creighton University website.

3. Kaplan University
   Kaplan University, located in the Aksarben neighborhood, provides a Dental Assistant program that includes hands-on training and externship opportunities. This program prepares students for various certifications and licensure required in Nebraska. Visit their program page for more details.

Dental Assistant Employment Opportunities in Omaha

Omaha hosts numerous dental offices and clinics where Dental Assistants can find employment. Here are a few notable facilities:

1. UNMC College of Dentistry
   Located in the Midtown area, the University of Nebraska Medical Center’s College of Dentistry offers comprehensive dental services and frequently seeks qualified Dental Assistants. Explore their employment opportunities for more information.

2. Omaha Dental Care
   Situated in the West Omaha neighborhood, Omaha Dental Care is known for its patient-centered approach and modern facilities. They often have openings for Dental Assistants. Visit their official website to learn more.

3. Village Pointe Dental
   Located in the Village Pointe area, this clinic provides a wide range of dental services and values skilled Dental Assistants to join their team. Check out their employment page for current job listings.

Prerequisites for Dental Assistant Programs

To enroll in a Dental Assistant program in Omaha, Nebraska, you typically need to meet the following prerequisites:

• Must be at least 18 years old.
• High school diploma or GED equivalent.
• Some programs may require entrance exams or background checks.
• Basic Life Support (BLS) certification is often required, especially for those assisting with sedation procedures.

Dental Assistant Certification Requirements in Nebraska

In Nebraska, Dental Assistants can pursue various certifications depending on their career goals:

• Basic Dental Assistant: No formal education is required, but BLS certification is necessary for those assisting with sedation.
• Dental Assistant Qualified in Coronal Polishing: Requires completion of a CODA-accredited program or 1,500 hours of work experience and a Board-approved course.
• Licensed Dental Assistant (LDA): Requires graduation from a CODA-accredited program or equivalent experience, passing the DANB’s CDA exam, and a jurisprudence exam.

For more detailed information, visit the Nebraska Board of Dentistry.

Licensure Requirements

To become a Licensed Dental Assistant in Nebraska, you must:

• Graduate from a CODA-accredited program or have equivalent work experience.
• Pass the DANB’s CDA exam and a jurisprudence exam.
• Apply for licensure through the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services.

Licensure Reciprocity

Nebraska does not currently have licensure reciprocity agreements with other states for Dental Assistants. Therefore, individuals moving to Nebraska may need to meet state-specific requirements.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as a Dental Assistant in Omaha, Nebraska, is an exciting opportunity to make a difference in the dental health field. With various educational programs and employment opportunities available, now is the perfect time to start your journey. 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.