Looking for classes in a specific city? Check out our lists of Dental Assistant Programs in Bridgeport, Hartford, New Haven, Stamford, and Waterbury.
Looking to start a career in dental care but unsure where to begin?
Discover the best Dental Assistant Programs in Connecticut that offer hands-on training, certification prep, and financial aid options.
This article highlights top programs, providing a clear path to your new career.
CT State – Dental Assistant Program
The CT State Dental Assistant program offers a robust training opportunity. For those passionate about entering the oral healthcare field, this program covers:
- Infection control: Crucial protocols for maintaining a sterile environment.
- Charting: Accurate patient data recording techniques.
- Patient preparation: Steps to ready patients for various dental procedures.
- Chairside assisting: Skills required to support dentists during treatments.
- Materials and instruments: Knowledge about the tools and substances used in dentistry.
- Tray set-up: Efficient preparation for dental procedures.
- Business procedures: Administrative duties crucial for running a dental practice.
Hands-on experience: Students gain practical knowledge through clinical rotations, helping them to prepare for the “Radiation Health & Safety” (RHS) and “Infection Control Exam” (ICE) portions of the Dental Assisting National Board Certification.
No high school diploma or GED required: Ideal for immediate entry into the field. The program includes 350 hours of training, with 150 hours allocated to clinical practice.
Tuition fees: $4,999 (subject to change). Financial aid options such as WIOA and SNAP are available.
Admission requirements: A health form signed by a physician and possibly proof of COVID-19 vaccination depending on the clinical site.
Porter and Chester Institute – Dental Assisting Program
Offering a mix of online coursework and hands-on labs, Porter and Chester Institute caters to diverse learning needs. Their Dental Assisting program is available at campuses in Bridgeport, Hamden, New London, and Waterbury.
Comprehensive Curriculum:
- Oral anatomy and hygiene: Understanding the structure and health of oral tissues.
- Radiography: Techniques for taking and interpreting dental X-rays.
- Infection control: Best practices to prevent cross-contamination.
- Nutrition: Insights into diet’s impact on dental health.
- Chairside procedures: Proficiency in aiding dentists during patient treatments.
Externship: A 335-hour externship provides real-world experience, critical for seamless industry entry.
DANB Certification: The program includes preparatory exams for essential DANB certifications, with exam fees incorporated in the tuition.
Career Placement: Graduates benefit from career services, helping them secure relevant employment. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the dental assisting field anticipates over 56,400 job openings annually.
Three Rivers Community College – Dental Assisting Program
Three Rivers Community College offers a two-semester Dental Assisting Program that effectively combines theoretical and practical learning.
Program Structure:
- Lecture/Lab Instruction: 200 hours focused on infection control, patient preparation, and handling dental instruments.
- Clinical Hours: 150 hours of on-the-job training through clinical rotations to develop practical skills.
DANB Preparation: The program prepares you for the RHS and ICE portions of the DANB Certification, ensuring readiness for national certification.
Emphasis on Hands-on Training: Students gain valuable practical experience which is essential for career success in dental assistance.
For specific tuition details and class schedules, it is recommended to contact the college directly.
Middlesex Community College – Clinical Dental Assistant Program
The Clinical Dental Assistant Program at Middlesex Community College offers a flexible, entirely online learning format suitable for diverse schedules. The course includes:
Core Areas of Study:
- Dental anatomy and pathology: In-depth understanding of dental structures and related diseases.
- Infection control: Protocols to ensure a safe and sterile environment.
- Radiology: Techniques for proper dental imaging.
- Chairside Assisting: Practical skills to support dentists during procedures.
Program Length: The program can be completed within a year, making it an expedited pathway to a new career.
Certification Preparation: Students receive exam vouchers for the DANB’s AMP, ICE, and RHS exams upon course completion. While certification requires two years of hands-on experience, the program provides a strong educational foundation.
Cost: Specific tuition costs should be confirmed directly with Middlesex Community College.
By exploring these programs, you can find the right match to kick-start your career in dental assisting. Each offers unique features and opportunities tailored to various needs and preferences.
Asnuntuck Community College – Dental Assistant Program
The Dental Assistant Program at Asnuntuck Community College is a 9-month program tailored to equip you with essential skills in dental assisting. This program combines various teaching methods including lectures, case studies, hands-on practice, and insights from industry guest speakers.
Key Areas Covered:
- Chairside Assisting: Master the techniques for assisting dentists during various dental procedures.
- Radiography: Learn essential skills for taking and processing dental X-rays.
- Infection Control: Understand protocols to maintain a sterile working environment.
The program prepares you to take the RHS and ICE exams—critical steps towards becoming a Certified Dental Assistant (CDA).
Financial Aid: Approved for CT SNAP and WIOA, making it more accessible.
Optional Externship: A 180-hour clinical externship is available to gain real-world experience.
Certify your skills and enhance your career prospects through Asnuntuck Community College’s program.
90 Day Dental Assistant – Online Program
The 90 Day Dental Assistant Online Program offers a flexible, online route to your dental assistant career. This program is especially beneficial if you need flexibility due to personal or professional commitments.
What You’ll Learn:
- Core Skills: Master basic and advanced dental assisting techniques.
- Software Training: Proficiency in dental management software such as Dentrix.
- Supplementary Modules: Includes video lectures, readings, quizzes, and optional clinical externships to enhance learning.
Tuition and Support: Tuition costs only $500, with payment plans available. Additionally, students get assistance with job placement, resume writing, and interview preparation.
Enroll in the 90 Day Dental Assistant Online Program to begin your journey in a flexible and affordable way.
LABCO School of Dental Assisting – Dental Assistant Training Program
The Dental Assistant Training Program at LABCO School of Dental Assisting in Trumbull, CT, spans 15 Saturdays, making it a convenient option for many. The program focuses on hands-on training, ensuring you gain practical skills needed in the field.
Program Highlights:
- Radiography: Training to proficiently take and process dental X-rays.
- Vital Measurements: Learn to accurately measure and record vital signs.
- Chairside Assistance: Skills for assisting during patient procedures.
DANB Exam Preparation: The program preps you for the DANB X-Ray Radiation Health and Safety exam.
Small Class Sizes: Enjoy personalized attention which can enhance your learning experience.
Job Placement Assistance: LABCO School offers job placement support, with many students securing positions even before graduation.
Explore the LABCO School of Dental Assisting for a hands-on, career-focused training program.
Choosing the Right Dental Assistant Program
When choosing the right dental assistant program in Connecticut, it’s important to consider several factors to ensure the program meets your career goals and circumstances effectively.
- Accreditation: Make sure the program is accredited. Accreditation ensures that the program meets industry standards for quality education.
- Curriculum: Review what the program covers. Look for a curriculum that includes both theoretical and practical training.
- Cost: Evaluate the total cost of the program, including tuition, lab fees, and materials. Don’t forget to inquire about financial aid options such as scholarships, grants, and payment plans.
- Certification Preparation: Determine if the program prepares you for key certifications like the DANB exams. Certification is crucial for job opportunities and career growth.
- Hands-On Training: Opt for programs offering clinical rotations or externships. Real-world experience is invaluable and often required by employers.
- Flexibility: Consider if the program fits your personal schedule. Choose between full-time, part-time, online, or in-person options based on your needs.
- Job Placement Assistance: Programs with career services can provide resumes, job interview coaching, and connections to potential employers, easing your transition into the workforce.
By thoroughly evaluating these factors, you can select a program that aligns with your career goals and sets you on the path to success in dental assistant programs in Connecticut.
Dental Assistant Programs By State
Conclusion
Embarking on a career as a dental assistant can be a rewarding choice. With multiple high-quality programs available in Connecticut, you have various options to gain the skills and qualifications needed for success in this growing field. Evaluate each program based on accreditation, curriculum, cost, certification prep, hands-on training, flexibility, and career support. By doing so, you’ll make an informed decision that aligns with your career aspirations and personal needs.
Ready to take the next step? Explore your options and choose the best dental assistant program in Connecticut to kickstart your career today.