Looking for classes in a specific city? Check out our lists of Dental Assistant Programs in Lexington and Louisville
Top Dental Assistant Programs in Kentucky
Wondering where to find the best dental assistant programs in Kentucky?
This article covers the top programs, detailing their unique offers, costs, and durations.
Discover how these accredited courses equip you with the skills needed for a successful dental assisting career.
From university programs to fast-track options, explore your best path forward in the dental field.
West Kentucky Community and Technical College – Dental Assisting Program
West Kentucky Community and Technical College (WKCTC) offers a robust Dental Assisting Program that provides students with an Associate in Applied Science degree. This program is tailored for those aiming to become certified dental assistants, combining theoretical and practical learning experiences.
What sets WKCTC apart?
- Accreditation: The program is accredited, which is crucial for ensuring quality education.
- Affordability: WKCTC boasts the lowest tuition rates in Kentucky, with available financial aid options.
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Courses cover chairside assisting, office procedures, and laboratory techniques under a dentist’s supervision.
- Credentialing: Graduates are well-prepared to sit for the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) exam.
- Requirements: Students need CPR certification, specific immunizations, background checks, and drug screens.
- Duration: Typically takes two years to complete on a full-time basis.
For more details, you can contact Allison Hopkins at (270) 534-3382 or [email protected]. Learn more about the program here.
MedQuest College – Comprehensive Dental Assistant Program
MedQuest College offers a well-regarded Dental Assisting diploma program with campuses in Lexington and Louisville. This program includes specialized training in Expanded Duty Dental Assisting (EDDA) and other dental specialties.
Why choose MedQuest College?
- Flexible Learning: The program includes both theoretical coursework and hands-on practice.
- Certifications: Students earn certifications in X-ray and CPR.
- Small Class Sizes: Ensures personalized attention and customized learning experiences.
- Accelerated Learning: Fast-track your career, typically completing the program in under a year.
For specific details on tuition and program hours, visit MedQuest College’s website.
KCTCS – Dental Assisting Program
Kentucky Community and Technical College System (KCTCS) offers dental assisting programs across multiple campuses, facilitating an extensive network of educational resources.
Key highlights of KCTCS:
- Diverse Options: Offers both associate degrees in Dental Assisting/Dental Hygiene and diploma programs.
- Hands-on Training: Emphasis on practical experience with veteran dentists.
- Flexible Locations: Access to programs across various campuses in Kentucky.
- Career Opportunities: Extensive job placement resources in dental offices, clinics, and schools.
For detailed information on their dental assisting programs, including salary expectations and certification requirements, click here.
Kentucky Dental Academy – Basic Dental Assisting Online/Hybrid Course
The Kentucky Dental Academy provides an innovative online/hybrid course designed for those with demanding schedules. This program offers hands-on training within actual dental office settings, ensuring real-world skills acquisition.
Program benefits include:
- Flexible Learning Format: Online and hybrid options to fit around other commitments.
- Accredited Training: Licensed by the Kentucky Commission on Proprietary Education.
- Hands-on Experience: Training takes place in professional dental environments.
- Affordability: Competitive pricing and flexible payment options.
For information on course schedules and admission requirements, visit their website.
TMIKY – Dental Assistant Program
TMIKY’s Dental Assistant Program is highly regarded for its supportive instruction and hands-on practical training. This course spans 16 weeks and includes a mix of online learning and externship hours.
Program highlights:
- Intensive Training: 13 hours per week of structured online learning and clinical externship.
- Certifications: Graduates earn a Dental Assisting certificate.
- Career Resources: Access to low-interest payment options and community scholarships.
- Supportive Environment: Personalized instructional support for all students.
For more details about the program, visit TMIKY’s website.
Western Kentucky University – Dental Assistant Program
Western Kentucky University (WKU) offers an extensive and structured Dental Assistant Program tailored to students seeking entry-level positions in the dental industry. The program includes both theoretical coursework and practical training elements.
What you can expect from WKU:
- In-Depth Curriculum: Covering topics such as dental history, office procedures, legal aspects, and clinical tasks.
- Accelerated Learning: Program duration ranges from 4 to 6 months.
- Externship Opportunities: Optional hands-on externship for real-world experience.
- Certifications: Graduates can pursue national certifications like the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) exam.
- Enrollment Requirements: Students must have a high school diploma or GED.
- Tuition: The program costs $3,950.
For more detailed information, check out the program at WKU.
EMTPKY – Dental Assistant Program
EMTPKY provides a well-rounded Dental Assistant Program emphasizing hands-on learning. This course combines both classroom knowledge and real-world practice through extensive externship opportunities.
Program Features:
- Hours of Training: Includes 179 hours of classroom training and a 120-hour externship.
- Skills Developed: Focuses on CPR certification, radiology certification, expanded duties, and patient care training.
- Admissions: Open to high school graduates or GED holders.
- Cost Efficiency: Offers a flexible and cost-effective way to start your dental care career quickly.
For more detailed information about their programs, visit the EMTPKY site.
ATA College – Dental Assisting Program
Located in Louisville, ATA College provides an extensive Dental Assisting Program, blending online classes with hands-on training on campus.
Key Program Benefits:
- Curriculum: Covers all dentistry practices, including EDDA and Radiology Certification.
- Practical Learning: Offers 300 hours of externship and certifications in OSHA, HIPAA, and CPR.
- External Support: Extensive career placement assistance.
- Certification Ready: Equips students to achieve necessary dental assistant certifications.
Explore more details by viewing the ATA College program page.
90 Day Dental Assistant – Online Course
The 90 Day Dental Assistant Online Course offers a flexible, budget-friendly route to becoming a dental assistant. This program is designed for those needing a self-paced learning environment.
Notable Program Features:
- Flexible Access: Provides 12 months of access to complete the coursework.
- Learning Tools: Includes video lectures, readings, and quizzes.
- Clinical Practice: Offers an optional 40-hour clinical externship for hands-on experience.
- Affordability: Priced at $500, with installment payment options available.
To learn more, check out the 90 Day Dental Assistant website.
Central Kentucky School of Dental Assisting – Dental Assisting Program
Central Kentucky School of Dental Assisting provides a compact, 13-week program with small class sizes, ensuring personalized education.
Program Advantages:
- Class Format: Offers online and weekend classes for flexible scheduling.
- Job Placement: Provides job placement assistance to help graduates secure positions.
- Accreditation: Certification received upon program completion.
- Career Entry: Designed for rapid entry into your dental assisting career.
For additional information, visit the program page at Central Kentucky School of Dental Assisting.
What to Consider When Choosing a Dental Assistant Program
Selecting the best dental assistant program in Kentucky requires careful consideration of several factors. Here’s a guide to help you make an informed decision.
- Accreditation: Ensure the program is accredited, which guarantees industry-standard training and qualification.
- Curriculum: Review the program curriculum to ensure it covers essential aspects such as chairside assistance, office procedures, radiology, and patient care.
- Hands-on Training: Look for programs offering extensive hands-on training or externships. Practical experience is crucial for skill development.
- Cost and Financial Aid: Compare tuition costs and check for available financial aid or scholarship options to ensure the program fits your budget.
- Program Duration: Select a program duration that aligns with your personal schedule and career goals. Some programs are shorter, while others offer a more comprehensive timeline for training.
- Job Placement Support: Programs with strong job placement support can crucially ease your transition into the workforce.
By examining these factors, you can choose a program that aligns with your career aspirations and personal circumstances.
Dental Assistant Programs By State
Conclusion
Choosing the right dental assistant program in Kentucky can lay a strong foundation for your professional journey in the dental field. By considering factors like accreditation, curriculum, hands-on training opportunities, tuition costs, and job placement support, you’ll be well on your way to making an informed decision. Take the first step towards your new career by exploring the programs we discussed above and finding the one that best suits your needs. Good luck on your dental assisting journey!