Dental Assistant Programs in Bismarck ND

Looking to start a career in dental assistance in Bismarck, ND?

You’re in the right place. This article reviews the top dental assistant programs in Bismarck, giving you a clear path to choosing the best option for your career goals.

Discover the unique features, benefits, and costs of each program to make an informed decision.

University of North Dakota – Clinical Dental Assistant Training

Explore the Clinical Dental Assistant Training Program at the University of North Dakota. This online course prepares you for a dynamic career in dental assistance. Expect to cover essential topics such as oral anatomy, dental office administration, radiography, and infection control. Designed to equip you with practical skills for a clinical dental setting, the course is:

• 100% online: With interactive lessons and hands-on training.
• Certification-bound: Prepare for the Radiation Health and Safety and Infection Control components of the Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) Exam.
• Career-focused: Benefit from a projected employment growth rate of 19% through 2026 and an average annual salary close to $38,000.

With over 20 years of expertise, Cindy Lamkin, a Registered Dental Assistant and Registered Dental Hygienist, instructs this well-rounded program. Prospective students should contact the institution for details on tuition and duration. Enhance your learning flexibility with no prerequisites required. Whether working full-time or part-time, this program ensures you understand the distinction between dental assistants and dental hygienists, preparing you for meaningful employment.

Bismarck State College – Clinical Dental Assistant Online Training Program

Enroll in the Clinical Dental Assistant Online Training Program offered by Bismarck State College. This program molds you into a professional dental assistant ready to join any dental team through a detailed curriculum covering:

• Anatomy and Preventive Dentistry: Gain a deep understanding of oral health fundamentals.
• Radiology and Pharmacology: Learn critical aspects of dental radiographs and medication management.
• Patient Care: Develop soft skills essential for patient interactions.

This flexible online course is supported by expert instructors and a collaboration with Ed2Go, enabling you to engage in interactive online discussions. Prepare yourself for the real-world dental environment with scenarios that offer practical knowledge. While specific details on program hours and costs need direct inquiry, this training ensures you’re well-prepared for dental assistance in practice and certification exams.

North Dakota Dental Board – Qualified Dental Assistant (QDA) Program

The Qualified Dental Assistant (QDA) Program from the North Dakota Dental Board provides a structured pathway to becoming a registered dental assistant. Choose from four eligibility routes:

• NELDA Exam and On-the-job Training: Pass the National Entry Level Dental Assistant (NELDA) exam and complete 300 hours of on-the-job training within one year.
• NELDA Certification and Clinical Hours: Pass NELDA certification exams, complete 300 clinical training hours, and undertake 16 hours of continuing education within two years.
• Career and Technical Education Program: Complete a dental assisting program through the ND Department of Career and Technical Education alongside the NELDA certification.
• DA Prep’s QDA Course: Complete DA Prep’s North Dakota QDA course.

Each route requires passing the Jurisprudence Exam, ensuring compliance with North Dakota’s dental laws. This program equips you with the proficiency needed for dental radiography, prosthetics handling, and more, while offering substantial support resources for exam preparation.

Bismarck State College – Pre-Dentistry Program

The Pre-Dentistry Program at Bismarck State College gives you the foundational courses necessary for dental school admission. With a focus on essential science courses like chemistry, biology, and physics, the program enables you to:

• Complete General Education Classes: Flexible options to transfer credits to a four-year institution.
• Gain Hands-On Experience: Opportunities to volunteer, intern, or job shadow within the dental field.
• Navigate Dental School Applications: Utilize the Associated American Dental Schools Application Service (AADSAS) for streamlined processes.

Recognizing the competitive nature of dental school admissions, the program emphasizes maintaining a high GPA and excelling on the Dental Admission Test. Community focus, smaller class sizes, and personalized attention ensure you receive strong faculty support. While some students may pursue a bachelor’s degree for dental school, this program offers a cost-effective and flexible foundation for your goals.

This cohesive overview of dental assistant programs in Bismarck, ND, provides you with essential insights to navigate through your educational options. Embark on a pathway that aligns with your career aspirations in dental assistance today.

North Dakota State College of Science – Dental Assisting Program

The Dental Assisting Program at North Dakota State College of Science (NDSCS) offers a robust combination of classroom instruction and hands-on clinical practice. Over a 10-month period, students gain expertise in various areas essential to dental assistance.

The program covers:

• General Studies: Foundational courses that prepare you for advanced dental subjects.
• Biodental Sciences: Detailed study of dental anatomy, dental materials, and tools.
• Dental Sciences: Comprehensive knowledge about dental procedures and patient care.
• Clinical Sciences: Practical training through clinical experiences.
• On-the-job Training: Over 300 hours in dental offices within the community and region.

You will learn to assist dentists during procedures, take radiographs, make dental impressions, and apply fluoride and sealants. The program also focuses on teaching preventive care and administrative duties.

Accredited by the American Dental Association Commission on Dental Accreditation, NDSCS assures a high standard of education. With a 100% placement rate and competitive salaries for graduates, this program sets a strong foundation for your career in dental assistance.

For specifics on tuition, course hours, and admission requirements, contacting NDSCS directly is recommended, ensuring you have the most current information.

University of Mary – Pre-Dental Concentration

The Pre-Dental Concentration at the University of Mary provides a versatile program focused on building a solid science foundation. This 10-course curriculum is often paired with a major in biology but is compatible with other undergraduate programs.

Key aspects of the program include:

• Research Seminars and Practical Training: Engage in research and practical learning experiences.
• Pre-Dentistry Practicum: Gain hands-on experience working with local dentists, dental hygienists, and dental assistants.
• Professional Demand: Address the rising need for dental professionals due to retirements and healthcare law changes, as cited by the American Dental Education Association (ADEA).

Graduates can pursue various career paths, including becoming general dentists, educators, public health consultants, or researchers. The program offers flexibility through multiple locations and online options.

With rigorous admission requirements and detailed course information available in the university’s program catalog, this concentration ensures you are well-prepared for dental school.

How to Choose the Best Dental Assistant Program in Bismarck ND

Choosing the best dental assistant program in Bismarck, ND, requires careful consideration of several factors:

1. Accreditation: Verify that the program is accredited by recognized bodies such as the American Dental Association (ADA). Accreditation ensures the program meets quality standards and is recognized by employers and certification boards.
2. Curriculum: Look for a curriculum that balances theoretical knowledge with practical skills. Essential areas should include oral anatomy, clinical practices, radiography, and infection control.
3. Hands-On Training: Prioritize programs offering extensive hands-on training opportunities to apply what you learn in real-world scenarios.
4. Flexibility: Decide what works best for you—online or in-person classes. Online programs offer convenience, while in-person classes may provide more direct experiential learning.
5. Cost: Compare tuition fees and investigate the availability of financial aid or scholarships. Evaluate the return on investment by considering job placement rates and average starting salaries for program graduates.
6. Employment Support: Post-graduation employment support, such as job placement services or career counseling, can be crucial for a smooth transition into the workforce.
7. Student Reviews and Testimonials: Reading reviews and testimonials can provide valuable insights into the program’s strengths and weaknesses.
8. Program Duration: Consider how the program duration fits with your career timeline and schedule.

By evaluating these factors, you can choose a program that aligns with your professional aspirations and personal circumstances.

Conclusion: Find Your Best Path in Dental Assistance

Embarking on a career in dental assisting is a rewarding choice with numerous opportunities in Bismarck, ND. Each highlighted program offers unique features tailored to different needs and goals. Whether you prefer a flexible online course or a comprehensive program with hands-on experience, you will find a path that suits you. Start your journey today by enrolling in one of these esteemed programs and take the first step towards a fulfilling career in dental assistance.