Thinking about becoming a dental assistant? It’s a smart career move.
These jobs are in high demand and pay well.
Plus, you get to help people and work in a fun team setting.
Getting certified is key to landing a great job. Online dental assistant programs can cost as little as $2,000 and take just a few months to finish. You’ll learn all the skills you need, from helping with procedures to handling office tasks.
With so many options out there, it’s easy to find a program that fits your schedule and budget.
1) DALE Foundation’s DANB Certified Dental Assistant Exam
Want to become a certified dental assistant? The DALE Foundation has got you covered.
They offer a comprehensive exam prep bundle to help you ace the DANB Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) exam.
This package includes everything you need to prepare for the big test.
You’ll get access to practice tests and review courses that cover all the exam topics.
The best part? You can study on your own time.
The CDA practice tests are interactive and work on your phone, tablet, or laptop.
You can even bookmark questions to review later.
Not sure where to start? The DALE Foundation’s prep materials break down the exam into bite-sized chunks.
This makes it easier to focus on areas where you need the most help.
Remember, passing the DANB exam is a big deal.
It takes hard work and dedication.
But with the right prep tools, you’ll be ready to tackle the test with confidence.
2) Penn Foster Dental Assistant Career Diploma
Looking to jump into the dental field? The Penn Foster Dental Assistant Career Diploma might be just what you need.
This online program lets you learn at your own pace, perfect for busy folks.
You’ll cover all the basics of dental assisting in 10 courses.
The program includes 27.4 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) and 16 exams.
Don’t worry, it’s not as scary as it sounds!
Want to zoom through? You could finish in about 3 months.
If you need more time, no problem.
The average student takes about 7 months to complete the program.
The curriculum is pretty cool.
You’ll learn about dental office management, tooth anatomy, and even how to handle dental emergencies.
Plus, you’ll get the scoop on infection control – super important in dentistry!
One neat thing about Penn Foster is their mobile-friendly coursework.
You can study on your phone or tablet whenever you have a spare moment.
They also offer virtual simulations to help you practice your skills.
Need a little extra help? Penn Foster provides personal coaches to support you along the way.
It’s like having your own cheerleader as you work towards your new career!
3) Ashworth College Dental Assisting Program
Want to become a dental assistant without leaving home? Check out the Dental Office Assistant training at Ashworth College.
This online program lets you learn at your own pace.
You’ll dive into topics like dental office basics, being part of a dental team, and the history of dentistry.
The course curriculum covers everything from dental equipment to patient care.
One cool thing about Ashworth is their flexible payment options.
You can start your dental assistant journey for just $20 down.
They even offer tuition savings up to $300 if you enroll soon.
The program focuses on getting you job-ready.
You’ll learn skills that dental offices are looking for, like how to handle appointments and work with patients.
By the end, you’ll have the know-how to take your first steps in a dental office career.
Plus, you can finish it all from the comfort of your couch.
No need to stress about classroom schedules or commutes.
4) Herzing University Dental Assisting Programs
Want to become a dental assistant? Herzing University has got you covered with some great options.
They offer two main programs to help you start your career.
First up is their Diploma in Dental Assisting.
This 47-credit program teaches you the basics of dental assisting.
You’ll learn about pre-clinical work, dental science, and even how to manage a dental office.
If you’re looking for something more advanced, check out their Associate of Applied Science in Dental Assisting.
This program gives you a deeper dive into the field.
Both programs are accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation.
That’s a big deal because it means they meet high standards.
Herzing also offers a Certificate of Completion in Dental Radiology.
This 80-hour course is perfect if you want to specialize in dental x-rays.
These programs are designed to get you job-ready.
You’ll learn hands-on skills that dentists are looking for in their assistants.
5) Purdue University Global Dental Assistant Certificate
Want to kickstart your dental assistant career? Check out Purdue University Global’s online dental assistant certificate program.
It’s a great way to learn the ropes without stepping foot in a classroom.
This program covers all the basics you’ll need to know.
You’ll learn about dental procedures, office management, and patient care.
The best part? You can finish it in just a few months.
Purdue Global is known for its quality education.
Their online platform makes learning easy and flexible.
You can study when it fits your schedule.
The course includes hands-on training too.
You’ll get to practice your skills in real dental settings.
This experience is super valuable when you’re job hunting later.
After finishing, you’ll be ready to take the Certified Dental Assistant exam.
This certification can open doors to great job opportunities in dental offices.
6) Florida Health Careers Institute Dental Assisting Program
Want to kick-start your dental assisting career? The Florida Health Careers Institute might be just what you’re looking for.
Their program packs a punch, giving you the skills you need in just six months.
You’ll get a mix of classroom learning and hands-on practice.
The program includes 142 hours of theory, 76 hours in the lab, and a 160-hour externship.
This combo helps you get ready for real-world dental work.
The institute’s goal is to prep you for entry-level dental assistant jobs.
You’ll learn about dental procedures, patient care, and office tasks.
Plus, you’ll get practice with dental tools and equipment.
One cool thing about this program is how quick it is.
In less than a year, you could be ready to start your new career.
It’s perfect if you want to get into the workforce fast.
The school also helps with job placement.
They’ll give you tips on writing resumes and acing interviews.
This support can make your job search easier once you finish the program.
Accreditation and Recognition
Make sure the course you pick is accredited by CODA.
CODA stands for Commission on Dental Accreditation.
It’s the big boss that says a program is good.
Why does this matter? Well, it means employers will take your certification seriously.
Plus, you’ll be ready for the CDA exam.
That’s the Certified Dental Assistant exam, which is a big deal.
Some states have their own rules too.
Check what your state wants before you sign up for anything.
This way, you won’t waste time on a course that doesn’t count where you live.
Course Content and Structure
Look at what the course actually teaches.
Does it cover all the basics you need?
A good course should teach you about:
- Dental tools and materials
- X-rays and imaging
- Patient care and comfort
- Infection control
- Office management
Think about how you learn best.
Do you like hands-on stuff? Look for a course with lots of practical experience.
If you’re busy, maybe an online course would work better for you.
Check out the course length too.
Some are quick, others take more time.
Pick one that fits your schedule but still gives you enough training.
Frequently Asked Questions
Dental assistant certification courses offer various benefits and options.
Getting the right info can help you pick the best program for your needs and career goals.
These programs cover essential skills such as patient care, dental procedures, and office management.
Researching accredited programs, including top dental hygienist courses, ensures you receive quality education and improve job prospects.
Selecting the right course can lead to better career advancement opportunities in the dental field.
What are the advantages of enrolling in an online dental assistant certification course?
Online courses give you more freedom.
You can study when it fits your schedule.
This works great if you have a job or family to take care of.
Many online programs, like the Penn Foster Dental Assistant Career Diploma, let you learn at your own pace.
You can often save money with online classes too.
There’s no need to pay for gas or parking to get to campus.
How can I find the best dental assistant certification programs near me?
Start by checking out local colleges and tech schools.
They often have dental assistant programs.
You can also search online for “dental assistant programs” plus your city or state name.
Don’t forget to look at online options too.
Programs like Ashworth College’s Dental Assisting Program let you train from anywhere.
Are there free dental assistant courses available, and how do they compare to paid programs?
Some schools offer free intro courses.
These can give you a taste of what dental assisting is like.
But they’re usually short and don’t lead to a full certification.
Paid programs, like the DALE Foundation’s DANB Certified Dental Assistant Exam prep course, offer more in-depth training.
They also often include hands-on practice, which is key for this job.
What are the key differences between dental assistant programs in California compared to other states?
California has some unique rules for dental assistants.
Their programs often include extra training on things like x-rays and coronal polishing.
Other states might not require these skills.
Programs in California also prep you for the state’s specific exam.
This is different from the national exam used in many other places.
Which certification do dental assistants need in order to advance in their careers?
The Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) credential is a big one.
Many dental assistants get this through the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB).
Programs like Herzing University’s Dental Assisting Programs can help prep you for this exam.
Some states have their own certifications too.
Check what’s required where you want to work.
What factors contribute to the earning potential of a dental assistant?
Your skills and certifications play a big role.
The more you know, the more you can earn.
Location matters too.
Big cities often pay more than small towns.
Experience counts as well.
As you work longer, you’ll likely earn more.
Specializing in areas like orthodontics can also boost your pay.