Dental Assistant Programs in Portland OR

Want to kickstart a career in dental assisting in Portland, OR?

Finding the right dental assistant program can significantly impact your professional journey. This article covers the best Dental Assistant Programs in Portland, OR, from in-depth training to hands-on experience, helping you choose the ideal program to meet your career goals.

Portland Community College – Dental Assisting Program

To start your journey in dental assisting, consider Portland Community College’s Dental Assisting Program. This nine-month program is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA). Because of this accreditation, you can be confident in the quality of education provided and the curriculum that meets industry standards.

This program features:

• Comprehensive training: Covering clinical and administrative dental practices, including office management, oral hygiene instruction, and medical history recording.
• Hands-on experience: Students gain practical skills in a community clinic and off-campus sites, ensuring they are job-ready upon graduation.
• Certification preparation: Graduates are eligible to take the Dental Assisting National Board Exam and pursue state and national certifications such as the Expanded Functions Dental Assistant (EFDA) Certificate.

With a rigorous curriculum, students are well-prepared to enter the workforce. For detailed tuition information and admission requirements, visiting the program’s official page is highly recommended.

Concorde Career College – Dental Assistant Diploma Program

Another excellent option is the Dental Assistant Diploma Program at Concorde Career College. This program offers an accelerated timeline, allowing you to complete it in just eight months. This program aims to quickly and efficiently prepare students for entry-level dental assistant positions.

Program highlights include:

• Comprehensive curriculum: Topics include dental terminology, patient care, diagnostics, and radiology.
• Extensive externship: Students complete a 230-hour externship, providing invaluable hands-on experience in actual dental settings.
• Financial aid: Various financial aid options are available for qualifying students.

Graduates are equipped to work in private practices, clinics, and other dental settings. An added benefit is the possibility of accessing their career services, providing job placement assistance post-graduation. For more information and details about enrollment, visit Concorde’s program page.

Clackamas Community College – Dental Assistant Program

Clackamas Community College offers a one-year Certificate in Dental Assisting. This program follows Oregon Health Authority and American Dental Association standards, ensuring you receive high-quality training.

Program features include:

• Supportive environment: Utilizing a cohort model, enhancing peer support and collaborative learning.
• Practical experience: Training in a fully equipped dental lab with supervised externships.
• Credentialing: Graduates are prepared for exams administered by the Oregon Board of Dentistry, facilitating smooth entry into the profession.

Additionally, the total estimated cost is approximately $11,724, including textbooks and materials. Scholarships and grants are available to assist students with tuition costs. For more details, visit their official program site.

Practical Dental Assisting of Oregon – Expanded-Function Dental Assisting Course

For those preferring a compact program, consider the Expanded-Function Dental Assisting course at Practical Dental Assisting of Oregon. Lasting 14 weeks, this course is designed for those who need a flexible schedule and a cost-effective option.

Key aspects of the program:

• In-depth content: Covers essential skills and includes observation hours in a dental office.
• Multiple certifications: Graduates can earn the EFDA Certificate, Oregon Radiology proficiency license, DANB Radiology Health and Safety certification, and a healthcare-level CPR certification.
• Modern facilities: Training occurs in state-of-the-art clinic environments.

This course is both time-efficient and budget-friendly, making it an attractive option. For further details, including financial considerations, visit their website.

Central Oregon Community College – Dental Assisting Program

Though not located in Portland, Central Oregon Community College (COCC) in Bend offers a one-year Dental Assisting certificate program worth considering. The program features state-of-the-art lab facilities housed in their Health Careers Center.

Key program features include:

• Applied learning: Hands-on practicums in local dental offices, dental labs, and community clinics.
• Certification readiness: Upon completion, students can pursue EFDA and EFODA certifications.
• Focus on care: Emphasizes compassionate patient care as part of professional development.

To explore more about COCC’s program specifics, tuition, and admission details, you can visit their informative page here.

Carrington College – Dental Assisting Program

Carrington College offers a Dental Assisting program in Portland, balancing theoretical knowledge with practical skills through an extensive curriculum.

Program features:

• Comprehensive coursework: Includes anatomy, physiology, radiography, and dental procedures.
• Realistic simulation labs: Provides a practical learning environment that mimics real-world dental offices.
• Clinical externship: Critical hands-on training to ensure you are job-ready upon completion.

Located in Lloyd Center Mall, Carrington College offers modern facilities. Students are well-prepared for careers in various dental settings with personalized educational support. For more information regarding duration, costs, and application requirements, visit their program page.

By considering any of these programs, you are taking a significant step towards a gratifying career in dental assisting. It’s essential to review each option carefully to choose the one that aligns best with your aspirations.

Lane Community College – Dental Assisting Program

Choosing the right dental assistant program is vital, and Lane Community College’s Dental Assisting Program in Eugene offers a solid option. This program provides intensive coursework and practical hands-on experience over its duration.

Program specifications include:

• Clinical coursework: Students engage in 360 hours of clinical coursework, ensuring they receive practical, real-world training.
• Cooperative Education internships: Through internships, students gain work experience in an actual dental office.
• State-of-the-art facilities: The program uses a modern dental lab equipped with digital radiology systems and 3D printers.
• National Board eligibility: Graduating students are eligible to take National Board exams and obtain necessary state licenses.

Funding options, including financial aid and scholarships, support students throughout their educational journey at Lane Community College. This program establishes a strong foundation for a successful career in dental assisting.

Elite Dental Assisting Academy – Dental Assistant Program

The Elite Dental Assisting Academy in Portland is known for its high job placement rates, with many students securing employment even before graduating. This program offers a balance of affordability and quality training.

Key features of the program:

• Hands-on experience: Students practice skills in a dental office-like setting, ensuring readiness for professional work.
• Affordability: The program is budget-friendly with several financing options available to students.
• Small class sizes: Personalized attention ensures each student receives the support they need.

This program meets Oregon’s requirements for radiation use and safety training and prepares students to take the Oregon State Radiologic Proficiency Examination. Graduates are well-positioned to start their careers swiftly after completion.

Umpqua Community College – Dental Assisting Program

The Umpqua Community College Dental Assisting Program in Roseburg offers a robust one-year certificate program combining classroom instruction with practical, hands-on training.

What makes this program unique:

• Hands-on training: A state-of-the-art dental lab provides practical training to students.
• Internship opportunities: Students complete a 300-hour internship, providing valuable real-world experience.
• Financial support: Scholarships and the E2L Scholarship Program help mitigate tuition costs.

Prospective students should ensure their obtained licensure is valid in their intended state of practice. This program efficiently prepares graduates for in-demand dental assisting roles.

Southern Oregon Dental Assistant Education – Dental Assisting Program

The Southern Oregon Dental Assistant Education (SODAE) Program, located in Portland, is an affordable and accelerated choice. This eight-month program delivers essential training for dental assistants.

Program highlights:

• Practical training: Hands-on training at a local dental office using professional equipment.
• Affordable education: At $6,995, this program is more cost-effective compared to traditional options.
• Industry partnerships: Strong relationships with dental offices enhance employment opportunities for graduates.

SODAE’s focus on practical skill development and affordability makes it a standout choice for aspiring dental assistants looking for immediate entry into the profession.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Dental Assistant Program in Portland OR

Choosing the best Dental Assistant Program in Portland OR requires careful consideration of several factors:

1. Accreditation: Ensure the program is accredited by a reputable body like the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA). This guarantees that the education meets industry standards.
2. Tuition and Financial Aid: Compare tuition costs and explore available financial aid, scholarships, and payment plans.
3. Curriculum: Look for comprehensive training that includes both clinical skills and administrative knowledge.
4. Hands-on Experience: Programs that offer externships or clinical practicums provide valuable real-world experience.
5. Job Placement Rates: High job placement rates can indicate a program’s success in preparing students for the workforce.
6. Student Reviews: Research student testimonials and reviews to understand their satisfaction and experiences.

Consider how each of these factors aligns with your career goals and personal circumstances. This approach will help you make a well-informed decision about your education.

Conclusion and Next Steps

Choosing the right dental assistant program is a critical step towards a rewarding career in dental healthcare. The programs listed above are some of the best options available in Portland, OR. Each offers unique features and benefits designed to equip you with the skills necessary to succeed in this growing field.

We strongly encourage you to visit the official websites of these programs to learn more about tuition, admission requirements, and the application process. This will help you make an informed decision that aligns with your career aspirations.

Embark on your journey to becoming a dental assistant by selecting a program that best fits your needs and start preparing for a fulfilling career in the dental industry.