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Dental Assistant Schools
Dental Assistant Schools
 Although few people look forward to going to the dentist, the one thing most people enjoy is the caring and friendly dental assistants that greet and prepare patients for their procedures. There always seems to be a dental assistant that travels that extra mile in patient care, making your procedure not so bad. This could easily be you once you attend a dental assisting school.
A dental assistant school will prepare you for a multifaceted job that involves patient care, office, and lab duties. Successful completion of your dental assisting training will allow you to become the vital link between the dentist and patient. Your training will teach you how to make a patient comfortable, prepare them for their treatment, obtain their records, and assist the dentist as he or she may need it.
Training at a dental assistant school can also lead you to excellent job opportunities. To begin your quest for a great career, search our Dental Assistant Training Schools guide today. It will not be long before you can make sure that patients leave your office with a shining smile!
Find a Dental Assistant School Near You
Dental Assistant Schools: FAQs and Answers
If you are researching a career as a dental assistant, begin here by learning the answers to frequently asked questions about educational and workplace opportunities. Dental assistants are predicted to be in high demand, and many schools offer in-depth, hands-on education so you can get the training you need, and the job you want. Continue reading to find the answers you may need to reach your career goals.
What does a dental assistant do?
A dental assistant helps dentists with patient care in the clinic, as an administrator, or both. Assistants may greet patients when they arrive, accept payments, schedule appointments, or organize office and dental supplies. Others perform chairside duties, such as preparing patients for treatment, laying out instruments, or conducting x-rays (depending on local restrictions).
Where can I find dental assistant schools near me?
Consult this listing of dental assistant schools, organized by location, to learn more. Here you can find a links to information about individual schools, learn about programs that are offered, and request more information.
What skills will I learn during dental assistant training?
You will learn how to perform both administrative and clinical tasks. Your training will likely include the basics of good oral hygiene, how to identify and use instruments, and how to administer x-rays. On the administrative side, you'll likely learn how to organize an office, keep records, and handle bill payments and insurance claims.
How much can I earn in a dental assisting position?
According to information collected in May 2009, the mean hourly wage was $16.35* (or about $35,000 annually). Top earners can expect to take home more than $22 per hour (or about $47,000 per year). However, wages are greatly influenced by geography, and specific areas of employment within the industry.
Do dental assistant programs have prerequisites?
A high school diploma, or an equivalent, is likely the only prerequisite you will need to begin training. High school students interested in the profession may want to consider science and business classes.
Are dental hygienist and dental assistant positions the same?
An assistant works in a supporting role. The work is more varied, and will likely include helping dentists with routine tasks to prepare patients for treatment, as well as maintaining a well-organized office. A hygienist is trained and licensed to work on a patient's mouth, specializing in duties related to cleaning teeth and inspecting gums. Hygienists earn more, but must train for a longer period of time (usually two years or more). Read "How Dental Hygienist Schools Differ from Dental Assistant Schools" to learn more.
Will I need certification after graduating from a dental assistant school?
Requirements vary by region, so it's best to consult with state boards to learn more about what is expected in the area you wish to work. However, many states regulate the work that assistants can perform. For example, you may need specialized education or training to perform x-rays. Some states my also require you to graduate from an accredited program, pass a written exam, and complete continuing education. Completing the Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) qualification from the Dental Assisting National Board may satisfy requirements in some states.
What are the job prospects for dental assisting?
According to the U.S. Department of Labor, the job prospects are said to be excellent, as the profession is expected to grow by 36 percent between 2008 and 2018. The increase is driven by two factors. First, our population is aging and more assistants are retiring, or plan to retire. Also, more people are realizing the importance of good dental health, creating greater demand for dental services.
How long will it take to graduate from a dental assistant school?
Most colleges or vocational schools offer programs that take about a year of full-time study, but it's best to consult with individual schools about how they tailor their programs.
Can I complete dental assistant training online?
It may be possible to train through distance education. Consult this guide to online dental assistant schools to learn more.
Open up to the opportunities
If you've found the information you're looking for, and you're keen on continuing toward a career in dental health, the next step is to begin contacting schools.
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*Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2010-11 Edition, web site accessed March 1, 2011.
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