Dental Assistant Programs in Baltimore MD

Curious about starting a career in dental assisting?

Discover the best Dental Assistant Programs in Baltimore MD. This guide covers the top schools and courses, providing essential information to help you make an informed decision.

Learn about the curriculum, hands-on training, and career opportunities each program offers, setting you on the path to a rewarding job in dental care.

Community College of Baltimore County – Dental Assistant Program

The Dental Assistant Program at the Community College of Baltimore County (CCBC) prepares you to be a vital member of the dental team, offering essential services to patients. The curriculum emphasizes clinical competencies needed for your success, such as developing impressions, assisting with fillings and root canals, and preparing patients for procedures.

The program’s structure allows you to focus on a variety of critical areas:

• Foundational courses: Includes prerequisites like Anatomy, Morphology, and Physiology (AMP) for Dental Assisting.
• Essential skills training: Courses such as Essential Skills for Healthcare Professionals and CPR for Healthcare Providers.
• Radiography: The program includes a specific Dental Assistant Oral Radiography course to ensure your readiness.

The majority of classes are conducted in-person at the Dundalk and Randallstown locations, ensuring ample hands-on training. The total cost for the program is approximately $2,706, with individual courses priced between $290.90 and $627.

Upon completion, you will be well-prepared to enter the dental assisting field, which is projected to grow by 8% from 2021 to 2031. This growth means about 56,400 annual job openings, offering you a promising career path.

For more information, visit Community College of Baltimore County Dental Assistant Program.

Dental Assistant School of Maryland – Dental Assisting Course

The Dental Assisting Course at the Dental Assistant School of Maryland offers training for entry-level positions as chair-side assistants. The program provides a balance of theoretical knowledge and hands-on training, emulating real dental office environments.

Key features include:

• Hands-on training: Students practice the essential skills needed in a functioning dental office.
• Certification preparation: The program preps you for the DANB Radiation Health and Safety (RHS) exam, necessary for a Radiology License in Maryland.
• Course options: Two main courses are available: the Dental Assisting Course (DAC) starting on September 18, 2024, and the Dental Radiology Course (DRC) beginning on June 12, 2024.

Graduates often benefit from working with professional teams and can enjoy perks such as paid vacation, medical coverage, and retirement benefits. The instructors include seasoned dentists, hygienists, and assistants who ensure you receive a well-rounded education.

To learn more about this program, visit Dental Assistant School of Maryland.

Baltimore City Community College – Associate Applied Science Degree Dental Hygiene Program

The Baltimore City Community College’s (BCCC) Associate Applied Science Degree Dental Hygiene Program is designed to prepare you for a career as a Registered Dental Hygienist (RDH). This program emphasizes hands-on experience in both on-site clinics and external health agencies, providing a comprehensive education in oral health care.

Key curriculum highlights:

• Clinical training: Hands-on procedures in identifying anatomical abnormalities and systemic conditions.
• Radiology: Master the techniques of oral radiography to ensure patient safety and precision.
• Ethical services: Focus on providing quality dental hygiene services and effective collaboration with diverse patient populations.

The program’s flexibility accommodates part-time scheduling, making it easier for working students. A dedicated team of faculty, including Professor Edna Street-Jones and Professor Shannon Stiffler, supports your learning journey.

Graduates are eligible to sit for the National Board Examination and can find employment in hospitals, school systems, health departments, and more.

For additional details, visit Baltimore City Community College Dental Hygiene Program.

Fortis College – Dental Assisting Program

Fortis College offers a Dental Assisting program at its Towson, MD campus, which is conveniently located near Baltimore and Ellicott City. This program equips you with the essential skills for supporting dentists in various settings.

Program highlights include:

• Comprehensive training: Learn a mix of patient care, administrative tasks, and laboratory duties.
• Hands-on experience: Practical training in treatment rooms with experienced dentists supervising your work.
• Career opportunities: Graduates can pursue careers in private and group dental practices, specialty practices, mobile dental units, insurance companies, hospitals, and health facilities.

The program is accredited by ABHES, ACCSC, and ACICS, ensuring a high standard of education. Fortis College also offers lifetime graduate employment assistance, making your transition to the workforce smoother. Tuition costs vary, and financial aid options are available for those who qualify.

Visit the Fortis College Dental Assisting Program page for further information.

All-State Career School – Expanded Functions Dental Assisting Program

The Expanded Functions Dental Assisting Program at All-State Career School in Baltimore, MD, sets you up for advanced roles within dental practices. By obtaining skills beyond traditional dental assisting, you can expect increased responsibilities and compensation.

Here are the key features:

• Advanced Skill Training: Courses cover biomedical sciences, emergency management, prosthodontics, radiation health and safety, and restorative dentistry.
• Career Support: Lifetime employment assistance includes resume development, interview coaching, and job placement services.
• Accreditation: The program is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC), ensuring a high standard of education.
• Financing: Various tuition financing options are available, making it more accessible.

Incorporating expanded functions in your training can open doors to higher wages and more significant responsibilities, boosting your professional advancement.

For more information, visit the All-State Career School EFDA Program.

University of Maryland School of Dentistry – Dental Hygiene Program

The Dental Hygiene Program at the University of Maryland School of Dentistry offers a Bachelor of Science degree, perfect for those aiming to excel in oral health. Being the world’s first dental college, it is renowned for its academic excellence and cutting-edge research.

Program highlights include:

• Collaborative Learning: Work alongside dental students on patient care, community service, and research projects.
• Small Class Sizes: Receive personalized training in a close-knit learning environment.
• Modern Facilities: State-of-the-art clinical facilities ensure practical, hands-on experience.
• Experienced Faculty: Learn from highly qualified and compassionate educators.

The program prepares you for leadership roles in dental hygiene, backed by a robust academic and clinical foundation. You’ll be well-equipped to provide comprehensive patient care and contribute effectively to dental teams.

Discover more about the UMD Dental Hygiene Program.

Anne Arundel Community College – Dental Assisting Program

Anne Arundel Community College (AACC) offers a Dental Assisting Program featuring 118 hours of detailed instruction. This prepares you for entry-level positions and helps you attain certification.

Key components are:

• Radiology Certification: Prepares students for the DANB Radiology and Health and Safety (RHS) exam.
• Hands-on Practice: Open lab sessions for practical skills.
• Success Coaching: Guidance on study techniques and time management.
• Hiring Assistance: Provides a Certificate of Completion and job placement support.

Courses include Dental Assisting and Radiology: Lecture and Lab, ensuring you gain the skills needed for a successful career in dental assisting. The program is conveniently accessible and financially manageable.

For more details, visit the AACC Dental Assisting Program.

How to Find the Best Dental Assistant Programs in Baltimore MD

Finding the right Dental Assistant Program in Baltimore MD can set the stage for a successful and fulfilling career. Here are some critical aspects to consider:

1. Accreditation: Ensure programs are accredited by the ADA Commission on Dental Accreditation or the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES).
2. Curriculum: Look for comprehensive curricula covering essential dental assisting skills, including radiography and software applications.
3. Practical Training: Check if the program offers extensive hands-on training within dental office environments or on-site clinics.
4. Schedule and Duration: Choose a program with flexible scheduling to accommodate your existing commitments.
5. Cost and Financial Aid: Evaluate the total program cost, including additional fees. Investigate available financial aid and scholarship options.
6. Career Support: Opt for programs providing job placement assistance and counseling to facilitate a smooth transition into the workforce.

By keeping these key factors in mind, you can select a program that aligns well with your career aspirations and personal circumstances.

Conclusion

Embarking on a career as a dental assistant opens a world of opportunities. The Dental Assistant Programs in Baltimore MD, such as those offered by Community College of Baltimore County, Dental Assistant School of Maryland, Baltimore City Community College, Fortis College, All-State Career School, University of Maryland School of Dentistry, and Anne Arundel Community College, provide robust education and hands-on training essential for your success. Evaluate your options and choose a program that best fits your needs to kickstart a rewarding career in dental assisting.