Dental Assistant Programs in Grand Rapids MI

Looking to launch your career in dental healthcare?

Discover the top Dental Assistant Programs in Grand Rapids MI that can fast-track your journey.

This article reviews the best offerings in Grand Rapids, providing insights into program lengths, certification opportunities, and what sets each apart.

Whether you’re new to the field or seeking better options, find the right fit to start your dental assistant career.

Grand Rapids Community College – Dental Assisting Program

Start your journey toward becoming a proficient dental assistant with the Grand Rapids Community College – Dental Assisting Program. GRCC’s program is designed to be impactful and thorough, preparing you with the skills necessary for today’s dynamic healthcare environment.

The program spans 10 months and awards a GRCC Certificate in Dental Assisting upon completion. For those looking to further their education, there’s an option to pursue an Associate in Applied Arts and Sciences degree by adding eight liberal arts courses to the curriculum. This extended option enhances both your knowledge and marketability.

Here are some standout features of the GRCC program:

• Accreditation: This program is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation, ensuring you receive education that meets high professional standards.
• Certification Eligibility: Graduates are prepared to take the Dental Assisting National Board examination to become a Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) and the Michigan RDA Examination to become a Registered Dental Assistant (RDA).
• Curriculum and Skills: The curriculum includes the latest dental techniques and digital imaging skills, critical for modern dental practices.
• Hands-On Experience: You’ll gain exposure to various work environments such as private dental offices, dental schools, and public health departments.

GRCC also emphasizes the significant demand for trained dental assistants, which can enhance your career prospects post-graduation. Visit GRCC’s program page for more details on costs and transferring credits.

Ross College – Dental Assistant Program

Consider the Ross College Dental Assistant Program if you’re seeking a well-rounded training experience that bridges clinical and administrative skills. This program is fast-paced, ideal for those eager to get started in their careers quickly.

The total duration of the program is 36 weeks, providing ample time to cover a wide range of topics that include:

• Dual Focus: The curriculum balances both clinical dental assisting and administrative duties. This dual approach broadens your skill set, giving you more career flexibility.
• Hands-On Instruction: Students receive classroom teaching paired with hands-on training, ensuring a practical understanding of the material.
• Comprehensive Topics: You’ll learn about dental anatomy, radiography, sterilization procedures, and administrative tasks like instrument preparation and ordering supplies.

Conveniently located in Grand Rapids, Ross College’s campus is easily accessible, making it a practical choice. To find out more about tuition, financial aid, and schedules, visit the Ross College Dental Assistant Program page.

Ross Medical Education Center – Dental Assistant Program

Another excellent option in Grand Rapids is the Ross Medical Education Center Dental Assistant Program. This program focuses on equipping you with both essential clinical and administrative skills.

The curriculum is structured into six comprehensive modules, covering vital areas such as:

• Dental Team Introduction and Skull Anatomy: Understand your role within the dental team and get familiar with head and neck anatomy.
• Dental Instruments and Record Management: Learn about various dental instruments and how to manage dental records efficiently.
• Periodontics and Orthodontics: Dive into specialized fields like periodontics (gum health) and orthodontics (alignment and bite correction).

For day students, the program lasts 30 weeks while evening students complete it in 36 weeks, offering flexibility to fit different schedules.

Key features include:

• Externships: Gain real-world experience through externships in dental office settings.
• Certification Exam Preparation: The program preps you for the Infection Control (ICE) and Radiation Health and Safety (RHS) exams. Graduates can get reimbursed for these exams, a great bonus.
• Comprehensive Curriculum: Training includes dental emergencies, CPR, dental law and ethics, radiographic techniques, and clinical procedures.

Visit the Ross Medical Education Center Dental Assistant Program page to explore more about the program’s specifics.

Stay tuned as we continue our exploration of the best dental assistant programs in Grand Rapids, MI!

Dorsey College – Dental Assistant Training Program

The Dorsey College Dental Assistant Training Program in Grand Rapids is a one-year program that blends clinical and administrative training. This program covers a range of essential topics to prepare you for entry-level roles in dental offices.

• Extensive Curriculum: You’ll study dental anatomy, chairside assisting techniques, radiography, sterilization, infection control, and pharmacology.
• Externships: Gain practical experience through externships, which help you apply classroom knowledge in real-world settings.
• Certification Preparation: The program prepares students for the Radiation Health and Safety (RHS) and Infection Control (ICE) certification exams.
• Accreditation: Although it’s accredited by the Commission of the Council on Occupational Education, it does not prepare you for licensure as a Registered Dental Assistant in Michigan since it lacks American Dental Association accreditation.

Upon completion, you’ll be eligible to take a certification exam offered by the Dental Assisting National Board after accumulating 3,500 hours of dental work experience. Visit the Dorsey College Dental Assistant Training Program page for program cost and additional details.

How to Choose the Best Dental Assistant Program

Choosing the right dental assistant program is crucial for your career. Here are key factors to consider to help you make the best choice:

1. Accreditation
2. Curriculum
3. Clinical Training Opportunities
4. Cost
5. Student Reviews and Success Rates
6. Licensure Preparation

By evaluating these factors, you can select a program that aligns with your career goals and personal circumstances, setting you on a successful path in dental assisting.

Conclusion

Embarking on a career as a dental assistant can be fulfilling and rewarding. By choosing the right program in Grand Rapids, MI, you’ll be well-prepared to enter the field with confidence and the necessary qualifications. Evaluate the options provided above to find the best fit for your aspirations and start your journey toward a promising career in dental healthcare.