Looking for classes in a specific city? Check out our lists of Dental Assistant Programs in Albuquerque, Las Cruces, and Rio Rancho.
Are you looking to start a rewarding career in dental assisting in New Mexico?
Discover the top dental assistant programs that can set you on the right path.
This article highlights the best training options, providing essential details to help you make an informed decision.
Let’s get started!
Dona Ana Community College – Dental Assistant Program
Explore the Dona Ana Community College Dental Assistant Program, which prepares you for a career in dental assisting. This program aims to improve dental healthcare delivery through credentialing and professional activities.
Key Features:
- Chairside Assisting Procedures: Gain hands-on experience with instrumentation, infection control, and equipment safety.
- Comprehensive Learning: Topics include dental radiology, materials, preventive dentistry, and professional concepts.
- Professional Development: Focus on oral communication, patient relations, and stress management.
- Practicum Opportunities: Engage in general practice and workplace experiences through the Dental Assisting Practicum.
- Licensure Eligibility: Apply for New Mexico licensure upon completing the DANB Radiation Health and Safety Exam.
- Certificate of Completion: Equip yourself for a career with a certificate in dental assisting.
This program covers a wide array of skills and knowledge, setting you up for success in the dental field.
Central New Mexico Community College – Dental Assisting Program
The Central New Mexico Community College Dental Assisting Program is accredited and combines classroom, laboratory, and clinical experiences. This program is designed to prepare you for the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) exam and state certifications.
Key Features:
- Accredited Program: Ensure quality education with accreditation by the Commission on Dental Accreditation.
- Classroom and Clinical Experience: Learn through both theoretical instruction and hands-on practice.
- State Certification Preparation: Gain eligibility for certifications in dental radiographs, sealants, coronal polishing, and topical fluoride application.
- Credit for Prior Learning: Receive credit if you hold valid certifications or are a certified Dental Assistant or Registered Dental Hygienist.
This program offers a well-rounded training experience, preparing you for immediate employment in dental clinics and offices.
New Mexico Dental Institute – Dental Assistant Program
The New Mexico Dental Institute Dental Assistant Program offers a fast-track route to become a dental assistant. The program is compact, affordable, and focused on delivering practical skills.
Key Features:
- Fast-Track Program: Complete the program in just 8 weeks.
- Hands-On Courses: Practical training to ensure skill acquisition.
- Career Preparation: Specifically designed to help you secure a dental assistant position quickly.
- Flexible Enrollment: Start dates available in July and October.
This program is a great choice if you are looking to begin your career swiftly and efficiently.
New Mexico Junior College – Dental Assisting Program
The New Mexico Junior College Dental Assisting Program prepares you for both administrative and clinical roles in dental practices.
Key Features:
- Diverse Curriculum: Learn about the history of dentistry, legal aspects, oral anatomy, and more.
- Small Class Size: Limited to 8 students for personalized attention.
- Eligibility for DANB Exams: Prepares you for the Radiation Health and Safety (RHS) and Infection Control Exam (ICE).
- Pathway to Advanced Programs: Provides a foundation for future dental hygienist programs.
This program ensures thorough preparation for a successful dental assisting career with personalized education.
New Mexico Institute of Dental Assisting – 13-Week Vocational Program
The New Mexico Institute of Dental Assisting offers a 13-week vocational program to help you become a dental assistant.
Key Features:
- In-Class and Hands-On Training: Combines instructional sessions with practical experience.
- Flexible Schedule: Evening classes accommodate work and family commitments.
- Specialized Learning: Focuses exclusively on dental assisting for a targeted education.
- Dedicated Instructors: Learn from professionals experienced in the field.
This vocational program is ideal for those needing a flexible schedule while receiving focused and specialized training.
Santa Fe Community College – Expanded Function Dental Auxiliary Program
The Expanded Function Dental Auxiliary Program at Santa Fe Community College (SFCC) is tailored for individuals aspiring to become certified dental assistants. The program prides itself on providing quality education and training under the accredited approval of the New Mexico Board of Dental Health Care.
Program Highlights:
- Accreditation: New Mexico Board of Dental Health Care-approved.
- Block System: Courses are arranged in clusters to enhance the learning experience.
- Certificate and AAS Options: Begin with a Certificate in Dental Assisting and have the option to pursue an Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in Dental Health.
- Expanded Function Courses: Courses available for certification as Expanded Function Dental Auxiliaries.
Students learn essential skills, including technical dental assisting and auxiliary skills, to advance within this rewarding career. This program efficiently fits within a 10-month period, paving the way for entry into the workforce.
Contact SFCC to find out more about the Expanded Function Dental Auxiliary Program.
The University of New Mexico – Gallup Dental Assisting Science Program
The University of New Mexico – Gallup Dental Assisting Science Program provides a blend of technical and communication skills essential for dental assistants. The program offers a certificate that focuses on hands-on experience and patient care.
Program Highlights:
- Comprehensive Training: Covers patient care, lab duties, and office tasks.
- Career-Ready Skills: Gain training in operating x-ray equipment and performing radiographic procedures.
- Certification Readiness: Prepares for Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) Radiation Health and Safety exam.
- Varied Roles: Graduates can work in diverse settings, including specialized dental offices and community health roles.
This program creates culturally sensitive and clinically competent dental care providers, equipped to meet the state standards and requirements.
Explore more about the UNM Gallup Dental Assisting Science Program.
90 Day Dental Assistant – Online Course in New Mexico
The 90 Day Dental Assistant Online Course offers a flexible and thorough training experience for those aspiring to be dental assistants, without the constraints of a traditional classroom setting.
Program Highlights:
- Online Format: 100% online, allowing you to complete the course at your own pace within 90 days.
- Affordable Tuition: Tuition is modestly priced at $500.
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Includes 12 lectures with video trainings, readings, study guides, and quizzes.
- Clinical Externship: Encouraged to apply theoretical knowledge in a real dental office setting.
- Job Placement Assistance: Includes courses on resume writing and interviewing skills for job search readiness.
This program is a valuable option for individuals looking for a budget-friendly and flexible path into dental assisting.
Learn more about the 90 Day Dental Assistant Online Course.
Carrington College – Dental Assisting Program
The Carrington College Dental Assisting Program at the Albuquerque Campus provides hands-on training aimed at fostering career readiness in the dental field.
Program Highlights:
- Personalized Attention: Small college experience with one-on-one instruction.
- Central Location: 35,000 square feet of space dedicated to training.
- Comprehensive Training: Covers anatomy, physiology, radiography, dental sealants, and front-office duties.
- Job Readiness: Equips students to work as dental assistants immediately upon graduation.
This program offers a robust curriculum in a supportive learning environment, preparing you for success in dental offices.
Find out more about the Carrington College Dental Assisting Program.
Pima Medical Institute – Dental Assistant Program
Discover the Dental Assistant Program at Pima Medical Institute, designed to provide essential skills required for dental assisting through an engaging curriculum.
Program Highlights:
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Classroom instruction and hands-on training in a simulated dental office.
- Certification Preparation: Prepares for DANB Radiation Health and Safety (RHS) and Infection Control (ICE) exams.
- Externship Opportunities: Gain real-world experience through externship opportunities at local dental offices.
- Accreditation: Program accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA).
This program ensures you acquire comprehensive skills and experience, enhancing your career opportunities in various dental settings.
Learn more about the Pima Medical Institute Dental Assistant Program.
Dental Assistant Programs By State
American Institute of Dental Assisting – 13-Week Dental Assistant Program
The 13-Week Dental Assistant Program at the American Institute of Dental Assisting is designed for those looking to quickly embark on a career in dental assisting.
Program Highlights:
- Short Duration: Complete the entire program in just 13 weeks.
- Hands-On Training: Combines in-class instruction with practical experience.
- Specialized Focus: Exclusive focus on dental assisting for targeted education.
- Dedicated Instructors: Learn from experienced professionals in the field.
This program offers an efficient route into the dental assisting profession, ensuring a quick and targeted approach to career readiness.
For more details, visit the American Institute dental program webpage.
In conclusion, whether you are looking for an accelerated program, flexible learning options, or comprehensive in-class training, New Mexico offers various excellent dental assistant programs to choose from. Each program brings unique features designed to cater to different learning needs and schedules. Explore these options further and choose the one that aligns best with your career goals.