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Thinking about a career in dental assisting but don’t know where to start?
Riverside, CA offers top-notch programs to kickstart your journey. This article highlights the best Dental Assistant Programs in Riverside CA, providing you with essential information to make an informed decision.
Discover the key benefits and features of these programs to find the perfect fit for your future career.
UEI College – Dental Assistant Program
Looking for a fast-track solution to start your dental assisting career? The Dental Assistant program at UEI College in Riverside, CA, is designed to help you gain essential skills quickly, completing in as little as 10 months.
Key aspects of UEI College’s program:
- Hands-on experience: You will gain practical experience in clinical, radiographic (X-ray), and preventative procedures.
- Diverse coursework: The curriculum includes eight courses like Dental Science/Medical Emergencies, Chairside Assisting, and Radiography.
- Externship opportunities: A required externship provides real-world experience.
- Career readiness: Graduates can pursue roles such as Certified Dental Assistant, Orthodontic Assistant, or Surgical Dental Assistant.
- Accreditation: UEI College is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC).
- Flexible schedules: The campus offers classes Monday through Thursday from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM and Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
- Financial aid: Available for eligible students.
For a comprehensive program that combines education with practical training, consider UEI College.
Moreno Valley College – Dental Assistant Program
The Dental Assistant Program at Moreno Valley College (MVC) is tailored to prepare you for a successful career as a licensed dental assistant. This program meets high educational standards, ensuring that you are job-ready upon graduation.
Key features of MVC’s program:
- Exam preparation: The curriculum prepares students for the Registered Dental Assistant Exam and the National Board Examination.
- Hands-on practice: Training takes place in MVC’s Dental Clinic, equipped with state-of-the-art dental office equipment.
- Expert instruction: Courses are taught by licensed professionals.
- Accreditation: Accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation, ensuring high educational standards.
- Selective entry: The program accepts 24 students annually, with applications open from fall to June.
- Information sessions: Attendance is crucial to understand prerequisites, applications, and costs.
For a program that combines thorough academic preparation with practical experience, learn more about MVC’s Dental Assistant Program.
North-West College – Dental Assistant Program
In Riverside, the North-West College Dental Assistant program aims to equip students with the essential skills needed for entry-level positions in dental offices, clinics, and healthcare facilities.
Highlighted benefits of North-West College:
- Comprehensive curriculum: Courses cover patient scheduling, x-ray imaging, coronal polishing, and more.
- Hands-on training: The program includes eight class modules followed by a 180-hour clinical externship.
- Quality accreditation: The program is accredited, ensuring high educational standards.
- Career support: While North-West College does not guarantee employment, it provides extensive training to ensure career preparedness.
For a well-rounded education and practical training in dental assistance, explore North-West College’s offerings.
American College of Healthcare and Technology – Dental Assistant Program
The Dental Assistant Program at the American College of Healthcare and Technology (ACHT) in Riverside offers a curriculum that covers both patient care and administrative duties, preparing you for a versatile career.
Standout elements of ACHT’s program:
- Comprehensive learning: Learn appointment scheduling, instrument sterilization, patient communication, and more.
- Certification preparation: The program helps you earn your California Radiation Safety Certificate, Infection Control, and Dental Practice Act certificates.
- Real-world training: Training is conducted in a modern dental lab for practical experience.
- Accelerated timeline: Complete the program in just 9 months.
- Flexible start dates: The program offers monthly start dates for added convenience.
For a program that blends education with real-world training, consider ACHT’s Dental Assistant Program.
California Dental Institute – Dental Assisting Program
The California Dental Institute’s Dental Assisting Program offers a curriculum that expertly balances traditional and modern clinical practices to prepare you for success in dental healthcare.
Key features of California Dental Institute’s program:
- Accreditation: Accredited by the Bureau for Private and Post-Secondary Education (BPPE), ensuring high educational quality and standards.
- Diverse skill training: Blends educational coursework with practical skills, including Radiation Safety and Infection Control.
- Hands-on experience: Provides hands-on experience with advanced equipment like the KaVo NOMAD Pro 2 handheld X-Ray.
- Additional training: Courses include OSHA and HIPAA compliance for comprehensive knowledge of workplace regulations.
- Accelerated program: Accelerated nature allows you to quickly transition to the workforce.
For a program that incorporates modern techniques and equipment, explore the California Dental Institute.
Concorde Career College – Dental Assistant Program
Looking to gain practical skills quickly? The Dental Assistant Program at Concorde Career College provides the flexibility and support needed to fast-track your career in dental assisting.
Highlighted features of Concorde Career College:
- Flexible scheduling: The program offers full-time and part-time schedules.
- Practical training: Includes a comprehensive externship to provide hands-on experience.
- Certifications: Prepares you for the California Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) exam.
- Modern facilities: Earn practical experience in state-of-the-art laboratories and clinics.
- Accreditation: Accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC).
For a blend of flexible learning and hands-on practice, consider the Concorde Career College Dental Assistant Program.
Summit College – Dental Assistant Program
The Dental Assistant Program at Summit College offers a robust curriculum designed to prepare you for various roles in dental healthcare.
Core aspects of Summit College’s program:
- Comprehensive training: Covers skills like chairside assisting, radiography, and dental office management.
- Externship: Includes a practical externship to ensure real-world experience.
- State-of-the-art facilities: Training takes place in modern dental labs equipped with the latest technology.
- Certification preparation: Prepares you for passing the California Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) exam.
- Accreditation: Accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC).
For a thorough educational experience and practical training, explore Summit College’s Dental Assistant Program.
How to Choose the Right Dental Assistant Program
Choosing the right dental assistant program involves several important factors. Your decision will shape your career path, so it’s essential to make informed choices.
- Accreditation: Ensure the program is accredited by recognized organizations like the Commission on Dental Accreditation. This guarantees that the education meets industry standards.
- Curriculum: Evaluate whether the curriculum covers essential skills such as radiography, chairside assisting, and infection control. A comprehensive curriculum ensures you are well-prepared.
- Hands-on Training: Hands-on experience is crucial. Prioritize programs offering clinical externships or real-world lab training to provide you with practical skills.
- Cost and Financial Aid: Consider the program’s cost and explore financial aid options. It’s vital to find a balance between affordability and quality education.
- Career Support: Look for career support services like job placement assistance and networking opportunities. These resources can significantly impact your success post-graduation.
- Reputation and Reviews: Research the program’s reputation by reading reviews and testimonials. Feedback from current or former students can provide valuable insights.
By carefully considering these factors, you can choose a program that aligns with your career goals and sets you on the path to success.
Conclusion
Choosing the right dental assistant program is an important step toward launching a successful career in dental healthcare. With various quality programs available in Riverside, CA, you have the opportunity to find one that fits your needs and career aspirations. Take the next step by researching these programs further and contacting the schools for more detailed information. Empower yourself with the right education and training to succeed in the rewarding field of dental assisting.