Not in Durham? Check out our lists of Dental Assistant Programs in Cary, Charlotte, Concord, Fayetteville, Greensboro, High Point, Raleigh, Wilmington, Winston-Salem, and across North Carolina.
Thinking about a career in dental assisting?
Finding the best dental assistant programs in Durham, NC can be overwhelming. We’ve done the research for you, highlighting top programs that offer comprehensive training, flexible schedules, and strong job placement support.
Whether you’re starting fresh or advancing your career, these options will help you succeed in the dental field.
NCCU Division of Extended Studies – Clinical Dental Assistant Program
Kickstart your dental assistant career with the NCCU Division of Extended Studies’ Clinical Dental Assistant Program. This online program is meticulously designed to prepare you for the Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) Exam.
Highlights include:
- Comprehensive Online Curriculum: Dive into dental anatomy, oral pathology, infection control, pharmacology, emergency management, preventive care, and more.
- Flexibility: The 100% online format allows you to balance your studies with other commitments.
- Professional Preparation: Receive vouchers for the Dental Assisting National Board examinations (AMP, ICE, RHS) upon completion.
- Expert Instructors: Learn from Cindy Lamkin, who has over 20 years of experience in the dental field.
- No Prerequisites Required: Suitable whether you are starting fresh or upgrading your skills.
Graduates of this program are well-prepared to work in dental offices under the supervision of dentists or in governmental roles, enhancing their knowledge and skills for their dental careers.
Triangle School of Dental Assisting – Dental Assisting Program
For hands-on dental assistant training, consider the Triangle School of Dental Assisting (TSDA). Situated in Raleigh, NC, this school is known for its exceptional instruction and practical approach.
Program features:
- Accelerated Training: Complete your training in just 15 weeks.
- Experienced Instructors: Learn from experts with nearly 20 years in the field.
- Practical Skills: Gain hands-on experience crucial for dental practice.
- Job Placement Assistance: Benefit from job placement support, helping you transition into the workforce seamlessly.
TSDA prepares you to support dental professionals effectively, making you an invaluable member of any dental care team.
Wake Tech – Dental Assisting Program
The Wake Tech Dental Assisting Program stands out for its rigorous standards and balanced approach. Located in the heart of North Carolina, this program is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of the American Dental Association.
Key aspects:
- Diverse Curriculum: Engage in a mix of dental sciences, x-ray techniques, sterilization, patient education, and more.
- Accreditation: Benefit from a program that meets the high educational standards of the ADA.
- Clinical Training: Gain real-world experience through clinical training sites.
- Communication Skills: Develop strong interpersonal skills essential for patient interaction and team collaboration.
Graduates from Wake Tech are highly regarded for their preparedness and competence, making a smooth transition into their dental assisting roles.
Sunrise School of Dental Assisting – Dental Assistant Certificate Program
The Sunrise School of Dental Assisting‘s Dental Assistant Certificate Program delivers targeted training in Durham, NC. This program is favored for its balance of affordability and excellence in education.
Program attributes:
- Focused Learning: Complete the program in 13 weeks.
- Supportive Instructors: Gain knowledge from experienced professionals dedicated to student success.
- Hands-On Training: Learn practical skills like radiology, infection control, dental office emergencies, and more.
- Job Placement Assistance: Benefit from employment support post-graduation.
This program is ideal for those looking for an accelerated and cost-effective pathway to becoming a dental assistant, with opportunities for job placement in the local dental industry.
In choosing the right Dental Assistant Program in Durham, NC, it is essential to consider various factors such as schedule flexibility, curriculum breadth, and job placement services. Each of these programs offers unique strengths to prepare you effectively for a rewarding career in dental assistance.
Durham College – Dental Assisting Program
The Durham College Dental Assisting Program provides a well-rounded one-year training for Level II dental assistants, emphasizing professional readiness.
Key Highlights:
- Diverse Curriculum: The program covers essential areas such as dental sciences, clinical theory and practice, dental materials, oral health, prevention, radiography, business administration, and dental lab skills.
- Professional Ethics: The curriculum instills professional and ethical principles, preparing you to work effectively within healthcare environments.
- Exam Eligibility: Graduates are eligible to take the National Dental Assisting Board Exam, which is crucial for certification by the Ontario Dental Assistants Association.
- Hands-On Experience: Gain practical experience through clinical consolidation and field placements in general dental offices.
- Additional Requirements: Be aware of costs for immunizations and lab tests, which are mandatory for program participation.
Graduating from this program equips you with the skills needed for immediate employment in dental practices, while the field placement provides invaluable hands-on training.
Sunrise School of Dental Assisting – Dental Assistant Program
The Sunrise School of Dental Assisting‘s Dental Assistant Program offers a comprehensive 13-week course in various North Carolina locations including Raleigh, Fayetteville, and Greensboro, making it accessible for many students.
Program Features:
- Evening Classes: The flexibility of evening classes allows you to balance your training with other commitments.
- Extensive Curriculum: Training covers sedation, radiology, x-rays, and additional dental assisting essentials.
- Hands-On Learning: Real-world experience is emphasized through practical training in private dental offices.
- Small Class Sizes: Benefit from personalized attention and support, thanks to smaller class sizes.
- Experienced Instructors: Learn from professionals with over 20 years of experience in the dental field.
- Career Guidance: The program includes career readiness training and professional guidance.
This flexibility and comprehensive approach ensure you receive robust training, preparing you for real-world dental assisting roles.
How to Choose the Best Dental Assistant Program in Durham
When searching for the best Dental Assistant Programs in Durham, NC, several crucial factors should guide your decision:
- Program Accreditation: Ensure that the program is accredited by relevant bodies such as the American Dental Association. This guarantees that the program meets high educational standards.
- Well-Rounded Curriculum: Review the program’s coursework to ensure it includes essential topics like radiology, infection control, dental practice management, and patient care.
- Practical Training: Look for programs that offer substantial hands-on experience through clinical training or internships. Practical experience is invaluable for your future career.
- Duration and Flexibility: Consider the length of the program and its scheduling options. Accelerated programs and flexible timings, such as evening or online classes, can be beneficial if you need to balance other commitments.
- Associated Costs: Compare tuition fees and account for additional costs such as exams, materials, and necessary health checks. Explore financial aid options if needed.
- Job Placement Assistance: Programs that offer job placement services can help you transition smoothly from education to employment, which is a significant advantage.
- Reputation: Research reviews and testimonials from former students. Positive feedback and successful career placements can indicate a high-quality program.
Making an informed choice ensures you select a program that matches your career goals and educational needs.
Conclusion
Choosing the right dental assistant program in Durham can significantly impact your career trajectory. Each program has unique features that cater to different needs, schedules, and career aspirations. By considering factors such as accreditation, curriculum, hands-on experience, flexibility, costs, job placement support, and the program’s reputation, you can select a dental assistant program that aligns with your goals.
Embark on your dental assisting journey with the right program and look forward to a fulfilling career in dental healthcare.
Each of the programs mentioned above comes with its own set of strengths and opportunities. Explore the provided links to get more detailed information and to make an informed decision that best suits your career aspirations in the field of dental assisting.