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Best Dental Assistant Programs in California
Wondering where to start your dental assistant career? Choosing the right program is crucial. This article highlights the best Dental Assistant Programs in California to guide you on this rewarding path.
Discover key details about top schools, certification options, and career preparation essentials.
San Joaquin Valley College – Dental Assisting Program
San Joaquin Valley College (SJVC) offers a resourceful Dental Assisting program tailored to prepare you for various roles in dental offices. The program is designed to be completed in as few as 11 months.
Key Features of SJVC Dental Assisting Program:
- Certifications: Graduates earn certifications in Dental Radiation Safety, CPR, Infection Control, and Dental Law and Ethics.
- State Licensure Exams: You are eligible to take state licensure exams, including the Dental Board of California Examination for Registered Dental Assistants.
- Specialized Courses: Opportunities to take additional courses in coronal polish and pit and fissure sealants.
- Accreditation: Accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission, ensuring high educational standards.
- Duration: Can be completed in as few as 11 months, offering a swift path to the profession.
SJVC’s Dental Assisting program equips you with hands-on training, ensuring you are well-prepared for real-world scenarios in dental offices. If you’re looking for a robust entry into the dental industry with strong certification opportunities, SJVC provides an excellent starting point.
San Francisco State University – Dental Assistant Program
The San Francisco State University offers a Dental Assistant program that is designed to prepare you for both the administrative and clinical aspects of a dental assisting career.
Key Features of San Francisco State University’s Dental Assistant Program:
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Covers dental history, legal guidelines, oral anatomy, dental equipment, and sterilization.
- Certification Preparation: Prepares students for the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) exams like the Radiation Health and Safety (RHS) and Infection Control Exam (ICE).
- Flexible Learning: Offered online for maximum flexibility, suitable for your busy schedule.
- Clinical Externship: Includes a valuable 40-hour clinical externship for real-world experience.
While this program does not meet all requirements for Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) certification in California, it lays a strong foundation for further dental education. If you’re looking to balance flexibility with a quality education, this program could be ideal for you.
Pasadena City College – Dental Assisting Certificate of Achievement
Pasadena City College (PCC) offers a well-structured one-year Dental Assisting Certificate of Achievement program. The program is accredited by ADA CODA and the Dental Board of California.
Key Features of Pasadena City College’s Dental Assisting Program:
- Accreditations: Accredited by ADA CODA and the Dental Board of California, affirming high standards.
- Exam Preparation: Prepares you for the Dental Assisting National Board exam and the California RDA exam.
- Specialized Training: Offers intensive training in infection control, oral radiology, and coronal polishing.
- Career Opportunities: Prepares students for diverse settings such as dental offices, hospitals, and clinics.
- Competitive Admissions: Operates on annual deadlines for spring enrollment.
The program emphasizes rigorous coursework and practical training, aiming to produce highly competent dental assistants. With its strong certification preparation, PCC is a promising choice for your dental assistant education.
Milan Institute – Dental Assistant Program
The Milan Institute provides a focused Dental Assistant program designed to make you proficient in both practical and technical aspects necessary for entry-level roles.
Key Features of Milan Institute’s Dental Assistant Program:
- Comprehensive Learning: Includes administrative tasks like scheduling appointments and clinical tasks such as radiology and assisting dentists.
- Externship: Offers real-world experience through an externship in dental facilities.
- Program Duration: Can be completed in as little as 36 weeks, allowing you to enter the workforce quickly.
- Multiple Locations: Available at various campuses in California, Nevada, and Texas.
If your goal is to quickly transition into the dental profession with solid, practical training, Milan Institute’s Dental Assistant program is an excellent option.
San Jose City College – Dental Assisting Program
San Jose City College offers a comprehensive 11-month Dental Assisting Program focused on providing practical and theoretical knowledge required in the dental field.
Key Features of San Jose City College’s Dental Assisting Program:
- Duration: An 11-month program designed for expedited learning.
- Hands-On Training: Utilizes modern equipment for practical clinical training.
- Degrees Offered: Students can earn an A.S. Degree in Dental Assisting.
- Certification Preparation: Prepares you for state licensure and national board exams.
- Advanced Facilities: Features advanced dental operatories and community placement opportunities for real-world experience.
- Cost-Effective: Estimated cost is between $1,500 to $2,000.
This program equips you with both academic knowledge and hands-on skills, ensuring you’re ready for diverse dental settings. If you seek a career-ready approach, San Jose City College offers a strong platform.
Healthcare Career College – Dental Assistant Diploma Program
Located in South Los Angeles, Healthcare Career College provides an 11-month Dental Assistant Diploma Program aimed at developing essential skills for a dental assisting career.
Key Features of Healthcare Career College’s Dental Assistant Program:
- Comprehensive Training: Covers sterilization techniques, x-ray procedures, patient interaction, and other key skills.
- Hands-On Practice: Provides extensive hands-on training to prepare you for both customer service and clinical roles.
- Job Growth: With an expected job growth rate of 15% in the next decade, it opens doors to advanced roles such as dental hygienist or dentist.
- Certification Encouragement: Prepares students for the DANB exams and positions them well for state licensure.
Affordable and well-rounded, this program positions you perfectly for success in the dental assisting field.
Allan Hancock College – Dental Assisting Program
Allan Hancock College offers a solid Dental Assisting Program accredited by the California Board of Dental Examiners. The two-semester program aims to equip you thoroughly for an effective career.
Key Features of Allan Hancock College’s Dental Assisting Program:
- Accreditation: Accredited and approved by the California Board of Dental Examiners.
- Diverse Training: Includes courses like infection control, dental anatomy, chairside procedures, and office management.
- Modern Facilities: Features a state-of-the-art dental clinic for practical training.
- Certification Opportunities: Provides pathways for certification essential for California dental assistants.
- Structured Learning: Operates Monday through Friday to ensure consistent learning and practice.
- Inclusive Environment: Promotes diversity and inclusion within the learning environment.
This program offers a structured and thorough pathway to becoming a successful dental assistant. If you value well-rounded education with practical experience, Allan Hancock College’s offering should be on your list.
Choosing the right Dental Assistant Program in California is fundamental to your career success. Consider each program’s unique attributes as you embark on this impactful and rewarding career path.
Cypress College – Dental Assisting Program
Cypress College offers a structured two-semester Dental Assisting Program. This program is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation and the Dental Board of California, ensuring a high standard of education.
Key Features of Cypress College’s Dental Assisting Program:
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Covers essential topics such as dental materials, oral anatomy, radiology, and chairside assisting.
- Hands-On Training: Utilizes an on-site facility and includes externships for real-world experience.
- Certification Preparation: Prepares students for state and national certification exams, including the RDA examination.
- Eligibility: Open to high school graduates and those with high school equivalency.
- Health Requirements: Requires good health and certain vaccinations for admission.
- Affordable: Estimated costs include tuition, books, and clinical attire.
This program equips you thoroughly for a career in dental assisting, making it an ideal choice for those seeking comprehensive and affordable training in California.
University of the Pacific – RDAEF Program
The University of the Pacific’s RDAEF Program is designed for Registered Dental Assistants (RDAs) looking for advanced training. Conducted at the Dugoni School of Dentistry, this program offers extensive education over a span of weekends.
Key Features of University of the Pacific’s RDAEF Program:
- Extended Hours: 410 hours of training for RDAs and 342 hours for existing RDAEFs.
- Mixed Learning: Includes lectures, online modules, lab work, and clinical experiences.
- Certification Eligibility: Successful graduates are eligible for the California State Board exam.
- Small Class Sizes: Features personalized instruction with low student-to-faculty ratios.
- Financial Assistance: Offers various financing options to students.
- Program Duration: Held over eight months on weekends to accommodate working professionals.
With its advanced curriculum and flexible scheduling, this program is an excellent pathway for RDAs aiming to enhance their skills and career opportunities.
Foothill College – Dental Assisting Program
Foothill College provides both full-time and part-time pathways in its Dental Assisting Program. The duration varies between 9 to 15 months, catering to different student needs.
Key Features of Foothill College’s Dental Assisting Program:
- Flexible Duration: Options for completing the program in 9 to 15 months.
- Class Size: Admits 24 students annually, ensuring individual attention.
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Includes chairside assisting, dental sciences, business practices, and health education.
- Certification Preparation: Prepares graduates for the California State Registered Dental Assisting Examination.
- Costs: Tuition is $31.00 per quarter unit, with grants available for part-time students.
- Hands-On Experience: Offers on-campus and internship experiences for practical learning.
This program’s flexible and immersive format makes it a reputable option for aspiring dental assistants seeking a robust educational and experiential foundation.
Carrington College – Dental Assisting Certificate Program
Carrington College offers a Dental Assisting certificate program with flexible scheduling across 14 locations. The program is designed for those who wish to enter the field quickly, completing it in as few as nine months.
Key Features of Carrington College’s Dental Assisting Program:
- Flexible Scheduling: Available in multiple locations, providing convenience and accessibility.
- Short Duration: Can be completed in as little as nine months.
- Hands-On Training: Includes a clinical externship for practical experience.
- Accreditation: Accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges.
- Cost and Financial Aid: Costs vary by location, with financial aid options available.
Carrington College’s program is ideal for those seeking rapid entry into the dental industry with a solid educational foundation.
Ventura County Office of Education – Dental Assistant Program
The Ventura County Office of Education provides a Dental Assistant Program that emphasizes hands-on training. It’s an excellent choice for those who want practical experience from the start.
Key Features of Ventura County Office of Education’s Dental Assistant Program:
- In-Depth Training: Covers radiography, infection control, dental materials, and chairside assisting.
- Exam Preparation: Prepares students for the DANB Radiation Health and Safety exam.
- Flexible Scheduling: Offers flexible class schedules to accommodate different needs.
- Affordable: Features affordable tuition with experienced instructors providing high-quality education.
- Workplace Readiness: Ensures students are well-prepared and proficient in essential dental assisting skills.
If you’re seeking practical experience combined with a solid educational foundation, this program is a great choice.
How to Choose the Right Dental Assistant Program
When selecting the right dental assistant program, several factors need your attention to ensure the best fit for your career goals and personal circumstances.
Consider these Key Factors:
- Accreditation
- Duration
- Costs and Financial Aid
- Hands-On Training
- Certification Preparation
- Reputation and Support Services
Choosing the right Dental Assistant Program in California is a significant step towards a rewarding career. By considering these factors, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your goals.
Dental Assistant Programs By State
Conclusion
Embarking on a career as a dental assistant requires careful consideration of the educational path you choose. The highlighted Dental Assistant Programs in California offer diverse options to fit different needs, schedules, and career ambitions.
Explore these programs to find one that aligns best with your goals. With the proper training and certification, you’ll be well on your way to a fulfilling career in the dental industry.
Start your journey today by selecting a program that meets your needs and aspirations in the dynamic field of dental assisting.