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Looking to kickstart your career in the dental field? Finding the best dental assistant programs in Hempstead, NY can be daunting.
This guide highlights the top programs available, offering a streamlined pathway to becoming a skilled dental assistant.
Learn which programs offer the best combination of curriculum, hands-on training, and job placement support to set you up for success in this growing field.
Access Careers – Dental Assistant Hybrid Program
Access Careers offers a Dental Assistant Hybrid Program at their Hempstead and Islandia campuses.
This program comprises:
- 900-hour training: It blends online and in-person classroom instruction.
- 300-hour internship: This provides essential hands-on experience.
Key coursework includes:
- Infection Prevention in Dentistry
- Radiographic Imaging
- Assisting in Comprehensive Dental Care
The program focuses on practical skills, but graduates are not eligible for New York State’s Certified Dental Assistant license. Despite this, the career outlook is positive, with a median salary of $33,230 and ample job opportunities in the New York metropolitan area.
The hybrid format offers flexibility, making it convenient for your schedule. Access Careers combines rigorous instruction with practical training, essential for a swift entry into the dental assisting field.
Consider contacting the Hempstead campus at (516) 433-0034 for more information.
Molloy University – Certified Clinical Dental Assistant Program
Molloy University offers an Online Certified Clinical Dental Assistant Program.
This program aims to prepare you for success in dental assisting by covering essential areas like:
- Radiology
- Infection Control
- Anatomy and Physiology
Once you complete the program, you’ll be ready to take the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) exams. Note that you will need to complete two years of work experience independently to obtain full certification.
Key benefits include:
- Flexibility with 100% online coursework.
- Focused exam preparation for DANB.
With dental assistants earning over $40,000 annually on average, this program provides a solid start to a thriving career.
Nassau Community College – Dental Assisting Program
Nassau Community College (NCC), in collaboration with Condensed Curriculum International (CCI), offers a Dental Assisting Program.
Key features include:
- Affordable tuition at $1,350.
- Comprehensive coverage of technical and administrative aspects like the history of dentistry, legal aspects, and oral anatomy.
- Eligibility to sit for the Dental Assistant National Board (DANB) exams.
A good fit for those looking for budget-friendly, career-focused education. Note the refund policy and consult the Center for Workforce Development if you have a criminal background, as it may impact your clinical rotation eligibility.
Nassau BOCES – Dental Assistant Program
Nassau BOCES offers an all-encompassing Dental Assistant Program.
Benefits of this program include:
- Externship: Provides hands-on practice in actual dental offices.
- Affordable tuition: Costs $1,295.
- Additional beneficial courses like CPR and OSHA-10 are available for a fee.
Encompassing both clinical and administrative skills, Nassau BOCES ensures you are well-equipped for various roles in dental offices post-graduation.
BMCC – Online Clinical Dental Assistant Training
BMCC provides 100% online coursework in its Online Clinical Dental Assistant Training Program, led by dental professionals.
The curriculum prepares you for the DANB exams in:
- Anatomy, Morphology, and Physiology (AMP)
- Infection Control (ICE)
- Radiation Health and Safety (RHS)
This program offers flexibility and can be completed in under a year. Post-exams and work experience, you can achieve Certified Dental Assistant status.
Essential topics covered:
- Dental Anatomy
- Infection Control
- Dental Emergency Procedures
This program is ideal for students needing flexible, comprehensive dental assistant training.
Lehman College – Dental Assistant Training Program
Lehman College offers an enriched Dental Assistant Training Program aimed at providing both theoretical and practical skills necessary to ensure success in the dental assisting field.
Program Details:
- 80-hour training: covering crucial areas like the history of dentistry, legal aspects, and morphology of the teeth.
- 40-hour externship: allows for real-world experience, making students job-ready upon graduation.
- Certification Exams: Graduates are eligible to sit for the DANB Radiology Health and Safety (RHS) and Infection Control (ICE) exams.
This program is well-suited for those who want a balanced approach between academic learning and hands-on training. Upon completion, students will receive a certificate that is highly regarded within the dental industry.
For more information, visit Lehman College’s website.
Hofstra University Health Technology Academy – Certified Dental Assistant Bootcamp
Hofstra University Health Technology Academy offers a Certified Dental Assistant Bootcamp specifically structured to deliver both clinical and administrative skills necessary for a fulfilling career in dental assisting.
Key Features of the Program:
- Flexible Online Learning: Perfect for students balancing other commitments.
- Career Counseling and Job Placement Assistance: Crucial for transitioning smoothly into the workforce.
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Equips students with the latest skills needed to meet the demands of today’s healthcare industry.
The program provides valuable skills and flexibility, making it an excellent choice for individuals keen on starting their dental assisting career with robust support and career services.
St. Paul’s School of Nursing – Dental Assisting Program
St. Paul’s School of Nursing provides an extensive Dental Assisting Program geared towards preparing students rapidly for entry-level positions in dental assisting.
Program Highlights:
- Classroom Lectures and Lab Instruction: Covering basic and advanced patient care procedures.
- Hands-on Clinical Experience: Ensuring students are well-prepared for the daily demands of dental assisting.
- Diverse Employment Opportunities: Graduates can work in settings ranging from private practices to public health facilities.
This program efficiently combines academic teaching with practical experience, making it an ideal choice for those eager to start their dental careers promptly.
Learn more by visiting St. Paul’s School of Nursing.
NYU College of Dentistry – Dental Assisting Certificate Program
The NYU College of Dentistry offers a prestigious Dental Assisting Certificate Program designed for un- or underemployed individuals aiming to enter the dental field.
Essential Program Information:
- Six-month Duration: Full-time, five days a week.
- Comprehensive Training: Includes courses and practical lessons taught by faculty and DDS students.
- Tuition-Free Enrollment: Admission by referral only, with six students accepted per cycle.
This highly selective program is tuition-free and designed to provide the foundational skills needed for a successful dental assisting career.
For details, check out NYU College of Dentistry.
Choosing the Best Dental Assistant Program in Hempstead NY
When selecting from the various dental assistant programs in Hempstead, NY, consider the following factors to ensure the program you choose aligns with your career goals and lifestyle.
1. Accreditation:
Ensures that the program meets industry standards.
2. Curriculum:
Look for diverse and comprehensive courses that cover both clinical and administrative aspects of dental assisting.
3. Hands-on Training:
Programs that offer externships or internships provide valuable hands-on experience, enhancing job readiness.
4. Program Length:
Determine how long it takes to complete the program to align with your career timeline.
5. Cost:
Assess the affordability of the program, including tuition and additional fees.
6. Career Services:
Programs that offer job placement assistance or career counseling can significantly ease your transition into the workforce.
Summary of Key Considerations:
- Accreditation: Ensures adherence to industry standards and quality education.
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Should cover a broad range of dental assisting responsibilities.
- Hands-on Training: Real-world experience through internships or externships.
- Program Duration: Consider the time commitment to complete the program.
- Cost: Evaluate your budget and the program’s financial requirements.
- Career Support: Look for programs offering robust career services.
By considering these factors, you can make an informed decision and select a program best suited for your career aspirations.
Conclusion: Start Your Dental Assisting Career Today
Selecting a top-notch dental assistant program in Hempstead, NY is a vital step towards a rewarding career in the dental field. With numerous excellent programs available, you can find one that fits your needs and sets you on a path to success.
Research thoroughly, evaluate your options, and take the first step towards your new career by enrolling in one of these highly recommended dental assistant programs.
Embark on your journey in dental assisting today!