Dental Assistant Schools and Training Programs

Education

The American Dental Association (ADA) accredits 265 dental assisting programs around the country. These programs are offered by technical institutes, community and junior colleges or trade schools and generally last a year or less. To apply you’ll need a high school diploma or its equivalent. Science or computer-related experience is also helpful.

Dental assistant programs offer you solid educational training as well as practical hands-on experience in clinics or dental offices. Practical experience is emphasized, with a significant amount of hands-on training, to make sure you are ready to begin work with confidence and the skills you need.

Certification

Most states regulate the tasks that dental assistants can do through licensure or registration. The requirements for dental assistant registration vary state to state but likely will mean passing a written or practical exam.

Recognized in more than 30 states, certification offered by the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) meets standards required for chairside assistants to perform more complex duties like taking patient x-rays. To qualify for DANB certification you must have graduated from an American Dental Association (ADA) accredited program or meet specific on-the-job experience requirements.

Certification as a dental assistant is recognition of your training and professional capability and will be of assistance wherever you seek employment.

Employment Outlook for Dental Assistants

Dental assistants or chairside assistants, as they are sometimes known, are expected to enjoy outstanding job prospects in coming years, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). With 36 percent projected employment growth from 2008 to 2018, dental assistants are expected to be among the fastest growing occupations in that period.

Dental Assistant Salary Potential

According to the BLS, the average hourly wage of a dental assistant was about $16.41 in 2010. Upper-tier dental assistants, who typically have more experience and education, made about $20 per hour. The average annual salary was $34,140 in 2010. And of course, the vast majority of dental assistants receive dental coverage, which is a major plus.

A Future in Dental Assisting

In an era when there's tremendous pressure to have the perfect smile, people are taking dental hygiene more seriously than ever before. If you have completed the requisite training at a recognized vocational school or community college, you will be well positioned for excellent career growth and employment prospects later down the road.

Additional Resources:

American Dental Assistant Association: Professional organization for dental assistants, with resources on education; it organizes conferences and speakers.

Dental Assisting national board: The governing body for dental assistant certifications.