Not in Providence? Check out our lists of Dental Assistant Programs in Warwick and across Rhode Island.
Want to kickstart a career in dental assisting?
Providence RI offers top-notch programs that can set you on the right path.
This article covers the best Dental Assistant Programs in Providence RI, highlighting what makes each unique and how they can help you achieve your career goals.
Community College of Rhode Island – Dental Assisting Program
The Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI) Dental Assisting Program offers a robust training pathway for aspiring dental assistants. This program, located at CCRI’s Flanagan Campus, focuses on preparing students to become DANB Certified Dental Assistants and emphasizes ethical, interdisciplinary, and culturally sensitive care.
Key Features of the Program:
- Accreditation: The program is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation, ensuring it meets national educational standards.
- Curriculum: Courses include dental anatomy, radiography, dental materials, infection control, and chairside assisting.
- Hands-On Training: Students gain practical experience through clinical settings, preparing them for real-world dental assisting roles.
- Faculty Expertise: The program is led by experienced professionals, including Program Director Kerri H. Friel and a dedicated team of assistant professors.
- Certification Preparation: The curriculum equips students to successfully complete the DANB Certified Dental Assistant Examination.
- Professionalism: There is a strong emphasis on professionalism and ethical practices, preparing graduates to function effectively as part of a dental health team.
To get detailed information about program hours and costs, visit the Community College of Rhode Island Dental Assisting Program page.
Genesis Center – RISNAPET Dental Assistant Program
The RISNAPET Dental Assistant Program by Genesis Center is a 12-week training program designed for adults seeking dental assisting skills and certifications. It offers a comprehensive schedule spanning 27.5 hours weekly for a total of 385 hours of training.
Key Features of the Program:
- Program Duration: The program runs for 12 weeks, with three annual sessions to choose from.
- Curriculum: Includes first aid/CPR, radiology, dental anatomy, sanitation, safety, dental procedures, HIPAA regulations, and financial literacy.
- Certifications Earned: Graduates receive certifications in First Aid/CPR and Dental Radiology.
- Eligibility Requirements: Applicants must have a high school credential, secondary-level reading ability, a BCI check, and COVID-19 vaccination.
- Additional Benefits: SNAP E&T participants receive childcare co-pays, book/material/ training certificate payments, and transportation assistance.
This program’s affordability and support make it an ideal choice for those eligible for extra benefits. For more information, visit the RISNAPET Dental Assistant Program page.
CCRI Workforce – Dental Assisting Program
The CCRI Workforce Dental Assisting Program offers an entry-level pathway into dental assisting, designed in collaboration with Real Jobs Rhode Island and the RI Department of Labor and Training. This free, 14-week full-time program includes an externship for hands-on experience.
Key Features of the Program:
- Curriculum: Covers dental assisting fundamentals such as four-handed dentistry, compliance with CDC/OSHA/Bloodborne Pathogen Standards, and sterilization processes.
- Externship: Students gain practical experience in real dental office settings.
- Certification Preparation: Graduates are eligible to sit for two of the three DANB certification exams.
- No Cost for Qualifying Students: The program is free for those who qualify, minimizing financial barriers to entry.
- Strong Industry Ties: The program’s collaboration with industry leaders ensures up-to-date and relevant training.
To learn more about the eligibility and specific details, visit the CCRI Workforce Dental Assisting Program page.
Lincoln Technical Institute – Dental Assisting Program
The Lincoln Technical Institute’s Dental Assisting Program in Lincoln, RI, offers extensive training aimed at preparing students for the Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) exam. Training takes place in well-equipped campus dental labs, simulating professional environments.
Key Features of the Program:
- Hands-On Training: Students practice skills like oral surgery assistance, implant placements, orthodontic procedures, taking dental impressions, X-ray development, and sterilization techniques.
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Includes dental anatomy, infection control, patient care, radiography, and office management.
- Clinical Externship: Provides real-world experience in a dental setting, enhancing practical skills.
- Job Market Relevance: With labor market trends indicating increasing demand for dental assistants in Rhode Island, this program offers promising career prospects.
To explore the program further, visit the Lincoln Technical Institute Dental Assisting Program page.
Genesis Center – Dental Assistant Program (DLT)
The Dental Assistant Program at Genesis Center, in partnership with the East Bay Community Action Program, aims to enhance employability through comprehensive training and hands-on experience.
Key Features of the Program:
- Certifications: Includes American Heart Association First Aid/CPR, Alzheimer’s care, nutrition, and respite care workshops.
- Internships: Students complete internships that often lead to employment offers.
- Support Services: Offers financial coaching, resume/job development, immunization updates, TB tests, and BCI checks.
- Real-World Skills: Focuses on practical skills essential for dental assisting roles.
Visit the Genesis Center Dental Assistant Program page for more information on program specifics.
Genesis Center – Dental Assistant Program
Genesis Center offers a 10-week Dental Assistant Program combining online learning with hands-on experience, ideal for those aspiring to become dental assistants.
Key Features of the Program:
- Program Schedule: The 13-week program includes Tuesday to Saturday sessions, from 9 am to 1 pm, totaling 357 training hours.
- Certifications Earned: Graduates receive Radiology Certification from Boston University’s Goldman Dental School and CPR and First Aid certification from the American Heart Association.
- Financial Support: Qualified participants can attend at no cost, with the opportunity to earn a stipend while learning.
Explore more details and check eligibility on the Genesis Center Dental Assistant Program page.
Choosing the right Dental Assistant Program in Providence RI involves careful consideration.
Each program offers unique features and benefits, ensuring that you can find one that aligns with your career aspirations and educational needs.
Community College of Rhode Island – Dental Assisting Program (Edu)
The Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI) Dental Assisting Program offers an extensive curriculum designed to prepare you for a successful career in dental assisting. Accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation, this comprehensive program provides you with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in the field.
Key Features of the Program:
- Comprehensive Curriculum: The program covers critical areas such as dental anatomy, radiography, dental materials, and infection control.
- Hands-On Training: You’ll get practical experience through clinical internships, making you well-equipped for real-world scenarios.
- Accreditation: The program is nationally accredited, ensuring a high-quality educational experience.
- Faculty Expertise: You’ll learn from experienced and knowledgeable faculty dedicated to your professional growth.
- Certification Preparation: The coursework prepares you to take the Dental Assisting National Board examination, a key step in advancing your career.
To explore the program details further, visit the Community College of Rhode Island Dental Assisting Program page.
East Providence Career and Technical Center – Dental Assisting Program
The East Providence Career and Technical Center’s Dental Assisting Program offers a thorough education in dental assisting. Led by Rebecca Paniccia, this program covers an array of essential duties and procedural competencies.
Key Features of the Program:
- Vital Signs and Infection Control: Learn to take vital signs and implement infection control procedures, ensuring patient safety.
- Dental Procedures: Gain practical experience in restorative procedures, using dental instruments, and preparing treatment rooms.
- Administrative Skills: Manage patient records, schedule appointments, and handle insurance claims.
- Laboratory Skills: Master tasks such as taking dental impressions and performing laboratory tests.
Visit the East Providence Career and Technical Center Dental Assisting Program page to learn more about this comprehensive program.
Community College of Rhode Island – Dental Assisting Program (Health)
The CCRI Dental Assisting Program offered in partnership with the Rhode Island Department of Health provides extensive training to prepare you for a dental assisting career. This program covers a wide range of topics essential for future dental assistants.
Key Features of the Program:
- Diverse Curriculum: Courses include dental anatomy, radiography, dental materials, infection control, office management, and chairside assisting.
- Accreditation: Accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation, it meets the highest educational standards.
- Clinical Experience: Gain hands-on experience in clinical settings to solidify your learning.
- Reputation: Benefit from CCRI’s strong reputation in healthcare education, enhancing your career prospects.
For more information on how to enroll, visit the Community College of Rhode Island Dental Assisting Program page.
Community College of Rhode Island – Dental Assisting Certificate Program
The Community College of Rhode Island’s Dental Assisting Certificate Program prepares you to sit for the Dental Assisting National Board certification exam. The program is designed to provide both academic knowledge and practical experience.
Key Features of the Program:
- Extensive Curriculum: Features lectures, lab classes, and clinical experience covering a wide array of dental assisting tasks.
- Certification Exam Prep: Comprehensive coursework prepares you for the DANB certification exam.
- Program Duration: The program runs for approximately 51 weeks (day programs) or 72 weeks (evening programs), including holidays and breaks.
- Hands-On Experience: Gain practical skills through clinical experience across multiple dental settings.
- Admission Requirements: Includes prerequisites such as GPA requirements and completion of the CCRI application.
Check out more details by visiting the Community College of Rhode Island Dental Assisting Certificate Program page.
What to Look For in a Dental Assistant Program
Choosing the right dental assistant program is crucial for your career success. Here are some tips to help you make the right choice:
Key Considerations:
- Accreditation: Ensure the program is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation.
- Hands-On Training: Look for programs that offer clinical internships or laboratory classes to gain practical experience.
- Program Length: Consider the duration and schedule of the program to fit your availability.
- Job Placement Support: Check if the program provides career services and job placement assistance.
- Curriculum: Review the curriculum to ensure it covers comprehensive dental assisting topics.
- Costs and Financial Aid: Evaluate tuition fees and the availability of financial aid or scholarships.
- Prerequisites and Requirements: Be aware of prerequisites such as high school credentials or health requirements.
- Reputation: Verify the institution’s reputation in the healthcare field.
By carefully weighing these factors, you can find a program that best aligns with your goals and needs.
Conclusion
Choosing the right dental assistant program in Providence, RI can set you on a promising career path in the healthcare field. From hands-on training to comprehensive curricula and accreditation, the programs listed offer you various options to equip you for a successful career as a dental assistant. Explore these programs further to find the best fit for your professional aspirations in dental assisting.