Looking to become a dental assistant in Billings, MT? You’re in the right place.
This article highlights the top Dental Assistant Programs in Billings MT, detailing their unique offerings to help you make an informed decision.
From program lengths to hands-on training, we’ve got you covered to kickstart your dental career.
Charter College – Certificate in Dental Assisting
Looking for a quick route into a rewarding career in dental health? Charter College in Billings, MT offers a Certificate in Dental Assisting that could be the perfect fit for you.
This program lasts 10 months and blends classroom instruction with hands-on lab training. You’ll get the education you need to succeed in entry-level dental assistant roles. Here are some of the key benefits:
- Comprehensive Curriculum: The program covers dental office administrative procedures, preventive dentistry, radiography, dental emergency procedures, orthodontics, prosthodontics, dental sciences, and dental care delivery techniques.
- Hands-On Learning: The hands-on portion provides real-world training in labs, preparing you for the practical aspects of the job.
- Externship Opportunity: You will complete a 180-hour externship at a local dental office, giving you on-the-job experience.
By the end of the program, you’ll be well-versed in clinical skills, diagnostic procedures, and dental office operations, including infection control practices to maintain a safe work environment. This program has been designed to meet state and local regulations, so you’re well-prepared for the workforce in Montana.
Why Choose Charter College?
- Time-Efficient: In just 10 months, you can join the workforce as a trained dental assistant.
- High Demand: The healthcare sector, especially dental care, continues to see high demand for skilled assistants.
- Rewarding Career: Dental assistants often find their work rewarding, both emotionally and financially.
For more details, visit the Charter College Dental Assisting page.
Montana Academy of Dental Assisting – Dental Assistant Program
The Montana Academy of Dental Assisting in Billings offers a focused and practical Dental Assistant Program that lasts just 10 weeks, making it one of the more efficient ways to begin your career.
Key Features
- Hands-On Training: This program emphasizes advanced, hands-on techniques used in modern dental practices.
- Two-Week Clinical Training: You’ll receive in-office clinical training guided by professional dental staff, solidifying your practical skills.
- Affordable Tuition: The program costs $6,000, which is competitive compared to other educational institutions.
At Montana Academy, you’ll learn how to assist dentists with various treatment procedures, manage patient comfort, collect patient information, and provide oral care instructions. The curriculum also covers infection control protocols, sterilization of instruments, digital X-rays, and laboratory duties. The two-week in-office clinical training ensures that you gain valuable experience under the guidance of industry professionals.
Why Opt for Montana Academy?
- Excellent Pay: Dental assistants in Billings can earn approximately $25 per hour along with excellent benefits.
- Flexible Hours: The profession offers flexibility in work hours, making it ideal for those who need a work-life balance.
- Stepping Stone: This program can serve as a foundation for those looking to advance to higher roles, such as a dental hygienist.
For more information, visit the Montana Academy of Dental Assisting Dental Assistant Program page.
Great Falls College MSU – Certificate of Applied Science in Dental Assisting
Great Falls College MSU offers a reputable Certificate of Applied Science in Dental Assisting, accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation. Here are the highlights:
Comprehensive Training
- One-Year Program: The program is designed to be completed in one year, offering an efficient yet thorough education.
- Accredited: Accreditation ensures the program meets high educational standards, preparing you best for the workforce.
- Certification Preparedness: Graduates are eligible to take the Dental Assisting National Board exam and earn their DANB-certified dental assistant (CDA) credentials.
Practical Benefits
- Job Prospects: The demand for dental assistants is strong in Montana, with an estimated 224 dental assisting job openings annually through 2031. The median annual wage for dental assistants stands at $40,670.
- Minimal Travel Requirements: The OneMSU Network allows students to take dental assisting courses broadcast live to Gallatin College in Bozeman. This flexibility means you only need to travel to Great Falls once a month for lab training.
- Local Clinical Training: You’ll receive hands-on clinical training at dental facilities in Bozeman, making it convenient if you live in the surrounding area.
Why Great Falls College MSU?
- Accreditation: Gain a credential from a program that meets rigorous educational standards.
- Job Readiness: The combination of classroom and hands-on learning ensures you are ready to enter the workforce upon graduation.
- Convenience: The OneMSU Dental Assistant Program helps you achieve your career goals while staying connected to your community.
For more details, visit the Great Falls College MSU Dental Assisting page.
City College at Montana State University Billings – Pre-Dental Hygiene Program
If your goal is to pursue a career in dental assisting or eventually become a dental hygienist, the Pre-Dental Hygiene program at City College at Montana State University Billings is worth considering.
Key Advantages
- Academic Guidance: The program offers personalized academic advising to help you select the appropriate courses. This individualized attention ensures that you can meet the prerequisites for dental hygiene programs.
- Transfer Partnerships: The program has articulations with Great Falls College MSU in Montana and Sheridan College in Wyoming, enabling a smooth transition to earning a Dental Hygiene Associate’s Degree.
- Prerequisite Completion: City College provides all the necessary coursework to prepare you for further education in dental hygiene.
Students in the pre-Dental Hygiene program benefit from City College’s strong ties with regional colleges, providing pathways to advanced education. This approach ensures that by the time you’re ready to transfer, you meet all necessary requirements seamlessly.
Additional support from a dedicated pre-Dental Hygiene Academic Advisor can make your academic journey more manageable. They will guide you through the process, helping you make informed decisions about your coursework and future career.
To explore this program further, visit the City College Pre-Dental Hygiene program page.
Billings Adult Community Education – Dental Assistant Program
For those who prefer a community-based education setting, the Billings Adult Community Education Dental Assistant Program offers a robust option.
Program Highlights
- Practical Experience: The program includes approximately 50 hours of clinical rotations at various dental offices in the Billings region. This extensive hands-on experience is invaluable for skill development.
- Theory and Clinical Training: The program combines theoretical knowledge with supervised clinical practice, ensuring a well-rounded education.
- Affordable Tuition: Registration for the program costs $640.00, making it an affordable option for many students.
Emphasizing real-world training, the program prepares students for roles in diverse dental care settings, such as private practices, hospitals, and public clinics. The integration of theoretical classes with practical experiences helps bridge the gap between education and employment.
Although registration is currently closed, it’s a good idea to keep an eye on their website for future opportunities or contact them directly for updates.
For more information, visit the Billings Adult Community Education Dental Assistant Program page.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Dental Assistant Program
Choosing the right dental assistant program is a crucial step towards a successful career in dental health. Here are some factors to consider:
- Accreditation: Ensure that the program is accredited by a recognized body. Accreditation guarantees that the program meets industry standards.
- Program Length: Evaluate the duration of the program to see if it aligns with your career goals and personal schedule. Programs can range from a few weeks to a year.
- Hands-On Experience: Look for programs that offer clinical training or externships. Practical experience is essential for developing the skills necessary for the job.
- Course Content: Review the curriculum to make sure that it covers key topics, such as radiography, infection control, dental materials, and chairside assisting.
- Job Placement Assistance: Some programs provide job placement services to help graduates find employment quickly.
- Cost: Compare the tuition fees and additional costs, such as books, materials, or lab fees. Check if there are financial aid options or scholarships available.
- Reputation: Research the program’s reputation by reading reviews, checking graduate success rates, and talking to current or former students.
- Location: Consider the convenience and accessibility of the program’s location.
By keeping these factors in mind, you can choose a program that best fits your needs and sets you on the path to a fulfilling career.
Conclusion: Start Your Dental Assistant Career in Billings MT
Billings offers multiple high-quality dental assistant programs, each with its unique advantages.
Whether you prefer a comprehensive short-term program or a pathway that offers transfer options to further your education, there’s something to match your needs.
Take the time to evaluate your options carefully, and soon you’ll be on your way to a rewarding career in dental assisting.
Explore the programs mentioned here to find the best fit for you, and start your journey toward making a meaningful impact in the dental field.