Dental Assistant Programs in Concord CA

Struggling to find the best dental assistant programs in Concord, CA? You’re in the right place.

This guide breaks down top programs, detailing their unique offerings to help you jumpstart your dental career. Whether you’re a recent high school graduate or looking for a career change, we’ve got you covered.

Unitek College – Dental Assisting Program

Are you ready to start a career in dental health with one of the most well-rounded Dental Assistant Programs in Concord, CA? Unitek College offers a 10-month Dental Assisting program that equips you with essential skills required for success in the dental field.

Key Features of the Program:

• Infection Control: Learn sterilization techniques crucial for maintaining a safe and hygienic dental environment.
• Medical Emergencies: Understand how to manage emergencies in a dental setting.
• Dental X-rays: Get trained in taking and interpreting dental radiographs.
• Use of Dental Instruments: Master the use of various dental tools used in daily practices.

Campus Facilities:

• Labs and Classrooms: The Concord campus features 9 labs and 7 classrooms for practical and theoretical learning.
• Accreditation: Unitek College is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC) and the Dental Board of California, ensuring quality education.

Student Support:

• Career Services: Benefit from career counseling, job search assistance, and interview preparation.
• Financial Aid Assistance: Explore various financial aid options to fund your education.

This program emphasizes developing attention to detail, dexterity, interpersonal and listening skills, and organizational abilities. Located in a healthcare hub, you’ll have ample opportunities for externships and networking. Whether you are a high school graduate or a career changer, Unitek College’s Dental Assisting program sets you up for success.

Mt. Diablo Adult Education – Dental Assistant Program

If you’re looking for an affordable and effective way to become a Registered Dental Assistant, Mt. Diablo Adult Education offers a 10-month Dental Assistant Program designed to get you career-ready.

Program Highlights:

• Chairside Duties: Comprehensive training in day-to-day dental assistant responsibilities.
• Infection Control Certification: Meet high standards with a certification in infection control.
• California RDA Exam Preparation: Focus on passing the California Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) exam.

Costs and Financial Aid:

• Tuition: The program costs $5,687.
• Financial Aid: Options like FAFSA and WIOA can help cover the cost.

Hands-on Experience:

• Externships: Get hands-on experience by working in dental offices during your training.

Admission Requirements:

• Information Session: Complete a 2-part CTE Programs Information Session.
• Education: A high school diploma or GED is required.
• Health: You must have health insurance and updated vaccinations.

Job Outlook:

In Contra Costa County, there’s a 10.8% projected employment growth rate for Dental Assistants, with a median wage of $24.16 per hour, making Mt. Diablo Adult Education’s program a solid investment in your future.

Concorde Career College – Dental Assistant Program

For those aiming to fast-track their career in dental health, the Concorde Career College offers an 8-month Dental Assistant Program that delivers both theoretical and practical training.

What You’ll Learn:

• Foundational Concepts: Gain knowledge in anatomy, physiology, and various dental specialties.
• Dental Assisting Techniques: Learn vital techniques for dental assisting.
• Patient Care and Diagnostics: Get trained in patient care, diagnostics, orthodontics, and dental radiology.

Real-World Training:

• Clinical Experiences: Engage in real-world and off-site clinical training.
• Responsibilities: Prepare to perform tasks like chairside assistance, taking patient x-rays, scheduling appointments, and maintaining records.

Accreditation:

• Expanded Duties and Radiology Certification: Approved by the Florida State Board of Dentistry for expanded duties and radiology certification.

Though externship placements aren’t guaranteed, the program’s comprehensive (omit-kit this word) curriculum ensures you’re ready to excel in the dental field. Offered at several campuses, including Garden Grove, North Hollywood, San Bernardino, and San Diego, Concorde Career College provides flexibility in location.

Contra Costa Medical Career College – Dental Assisting Program

Seek affordability without compromising on quality at Contra Costa Medical Career College. This Dental Assisting Program allows for flexible class schedules, ideal if you’re juggling other commitments.

Comprehensive Curriculum:

• Broad Training Areas: Includes dental assisting, phlebotomy, and EKG.
• Hands-on Training: Gain practical skills in real-world clinical settings.

Approvals and Accreditations:

• State Approval: The program is approved by the California Department of Health Services and the California State Board of Pharmacy.
• Accreditation: Fully accredited by ACCET and ABHES, ensuring a high standard of education.

Studying at CCMCC equips you with the skills and knowledge needed for a successful career in dental health. The program is tailored to be flexible and accommodating, making it easier for you to balance your education with other responsibilities.

Be sure to explore these programs to find the best fit for your career aspirations in dental health.

Gurnick Academy of Medical Arts – Dental Assisting Program

For a program rooted in both didactic instruction and hands-on experience, consider the Gurnick Academy of Medical Arts in Concord, CA. This Dental Assisting Program integrates comprehensive coursework and laboratory practice, preparing you thoroughly for a career in dental assistance.

Program Highlights:

• Didactic and Laboratory Courses: You will learn through structured courses in key areas such as infection control, dental materials, and radiology safety.
• Clinical Externship: Gain real-world experience through a clinical externship component designed to enhance practical skills.
• Program Structure: The curriculum is organized into seven 4-week blocks, facilitating step-by-step learning and mastery.
• Certification: You receive a certificate upon successful completion, validating your skills and knowledge.

Accreditation and Approvals:

• ABHES Accreditation: Accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools, ensuring a high standard of educational quality.
• Dental Board of California Approval: Approved for infection control, coronal polishing, and radiation safety certificate courses.

Financial and Career Support:

• Job Placement Assistance: Access resources and support to help secure employment after graduation.
• Financial Aid: Explore federal and state financial aid programs to help manage tuition costs.

The Gurnick Academy program is well-rounded, offering both education and practical training to equip you for the dental assisting field.

College of Alameda – Dental Assisting Program

The College of Alameda offers a robust Dental Assisting Program with rigorous accreditation and comprehensive coursework, making it a strong choice for prospective dental assistants.

Core Program Components:

• Accreditation: Accredited by the American Dental Association Commission on Dental Accreditation and the United States Department of Education.
• Duration: The program spans two consecutive semesters of full-time study.
• Licensure Preparation: Prepare for both the Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) and Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) exams.

Curriculum Details:

• California Dental Law and Ethics: Understand the legal and ethical considerations in dental practice.
• Infection Control: Learn important sterilization and infection control procedures.
• Dental Radiology: Develop competency in taking and interpreting dental radiographs.
• Chairside Skills: Gain skills necessary for assisting at the dental chair.

Hands-on Learning:

• Rotations: Engage in clinical rotations at the University of California, San Francisco, and private dental offices, ensuring well-rounded experiential learning.

Admission Requirements:

• Education: A high school diploma or equivalent.
• Health Compliance: Current CPR and first aid certification, negative TB and hepatitis tests.

This program’s in-depth curriculum and hands-on experiences make it a compelling option for those looking to enter the dental field with robust training and accreditation.

What to Consider When Choosing a Dental Assistant Program

Choosing the right dental assistant program is crucial for your career success. Here’s what you should consider:

1. Accreditation: Ensure the program is accredited by reputable organizations, such as the American Dental Association or the Accrediting Council for Continuing Education and Training.
2. Curriculum: Look for a comprehensive curriculum that covers essential skills like infection control, dental radiology, and chairside assistance.
3. Hands-on Training: Programs should offer clinical externships or rotations to gain real-world experience.
4. Financial Aid: Investigate the availability of financial aid options, such as FAFSA, WIOA, or scholarships to help cover tuition costs.
5. Job Placement Services: Explore if the school provides job placement assistance, which can be invaluable when starting your career.

By considering these factors, you can make an informed decision that best suits your career goals and financial situation.

Conclusion: Launch Your Dental Career Today

Selecting the right dental assistant program can set you on a fulfilling career path in dental health. Concord, CA, offers several excellent programs that provide the education, hands-on experience, and accreditation you need to succeed. Whether you choose Unitek College, Mt. Diablo Adult Education, Concorde Career College, Contra Costa Medical Career College, Gurnick Academy of Medical Arts, or the College of Alameda, you’re taking a significant step toward a rewarding career.

Embark on your journey today and become a skilled, certified dental assistant!