Dental Assistant Programs in Kansas City KS

Want to kickstart a rewarding career in dentistry?

Exploring Dental Assistant Programs in Kansas City KS might be your first step.

This article highlights the top local programs, featuring specialized training and unique opportunities to ensure you get the best start in the dental field.

Get ready to meet your goals with the right education and training.

Metropolitan Community College – Dental Assisting Program

The Metropolitan Community College (MCC) in Kansas City, KS, offers an esteemed Dental Assisting program that is accredited and widely recognized for its quality. This course is perfect for those focused on an enriching dental career through practical and theoretical learning.

Key highlights of this program include:

• Hands-on clinical training: Students gain practical experience by working with state-of-the-art Dental Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) machines. You’ll also complete over 300 hours of clinical rotations across different dental specialties like orthodontics, endodontics, and pediatric dentistry.
• Affiliation with UMKC Dental School: This affiliation provides unparalleled educational opportunities and access to professional resources.
• High success rate: With a 100% pass rate on the national dental assisting board exam, you can be confident in your training and readiness for the professional world.
• Comprehensive curriculum: The curriculum covers essential subjects such as dental terminology, roles and responsibilities, legal and ethical considerations, and the broader scope of dentistry.

Additionally, MCC emphasizes accessible education through various financial aid options, including federal aid, loans, and scholarships. The tuition fee is budget-friendly and varies based on residency status, providing in-district rates that are often more affordable.

The program is designed for those seeking a robust education with extensive clinical exposure and strong industry connections, setting the stage for a successful career as a dental assistant.

Learn more about MCC’s Dental Assisting Program.

Concorde Career College – Dental Assistant Program

If you’re looking for a swift and thorough pathway into dental assistance, the Concorde Career College in Kansas City offers a comprehensive Dental Assistant program that emphasizes practical experience and theoretical knowledge.

What you can expect:

• Duration: Complete your training in as few as nine months, making it ideal for those eager to enter the workforce quickly.
• Curriculum: This covers essential areas like anatomy, physiology, dental specialties, patient care, diagnostics, orthodontics, and dental radiology. These topics prepare you for a wide range of tasks within a dental office.
• Hands-On Training: An externship component provides real-world experience crucial for cementing your skills and knowledge.
• Student Support: Concorde offers various financial aid options, including scholarships and career planning sessions, helping you start your journey with confidence.

As a dental assistant, you will support dentists and hygienists with procedures, patient care, records management, and equipment sterilization. The dental field is growing, and Concorde’s program prepares you for this dynamic career.

Learn more about Concorde Career College’s Dental Assistant Program.

Flint Hills Technical College – Dental Assisting Program

The Flint Hills Technical College (FHTC) in Kansas City, KS, offers both a Technical Certificate and an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in Dental Assisting. This program is tailored to provide comprehensive education and hands-on training for aspiring dental assistants.

Program details include:

• Technical Certificate: This one-year program covers essential topics like chairside functions, office management, and radiography, along with an internship for practical experience.
• Associate Degree: A more extensive two-year program incorporating both technical and general education courses. You’ll benefit from classroom learning, laboratory work, and clinical internships that adhere to OSHA guidelines for exposure control and safety.
• DANB Exam Eligibility: Graduates are well-prepared to sit for the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) exam, enhancing their qualifications and job prospects.
• Career Opportunities: The program opens doors to various career paths including dental offices, specialty practices, dental labs, and positions as dental sales representatives.
• Faculty and Resources: Experienced instructors guide students through a curriculum designed to match current industry standards.

FHTC also partners with several universities, offering a seamless transition to Bachelor’s degree programs for those who wish to further their education.

Learn more about FHTC’s Dental Assisting Program.

Garden City Community College – Online Clinical Dental Assistant Training Program

The Garden City Community College offers a convenient, fully online Clinical Dental Assistant Training Program. This program is designed to equip you with all the necessary technical skills to excel in the field.

Key features to anticipate:

• Comprehensive Curriculum: The program includes courses in anatomy, physiology, preventive dentistry, patient care, radiology, pharmacology, and anesthesia. You will also learn to maintain electronic dental records using Dentrix software.
• Flexible Completion: Designed for students who require flexibility, it can be completed in a year or less, accommodating your busy schedule.
• Exam Preparation: Vouchers for the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) exams are included, providing you with additional resources to certify your skills.
• Practical Skills: Gain essential knowledge for tasks such as preparing patients, sterilizing tools, assisting during procedures, and managing records and schedules.

With financial aid and tuition assistance available, this program is both accessible and supportive. The online format suits those in need of a non-traditional learning environment, ensuring you gain a strong foundation and preparation for certification.

Discover more about Garden City Community College’s program.

90 Day Dental Assisting KC – Online Program

The 90 Day Dental Assisting KC Online Program provides an adaptable, cost-effective choice for aspiring dental assistants in Kansas City, KS. This program is completely online, allowing you to progress at your own pace.

Program highlights include:

• Self-Paced Learning: Typically completed within 90 days, but you have up to 12 months of access to materials, accommodating your unique schedule.
• Engaging Format: The curriculum consists of video lectures, textbook readings, study guides, and quizzes across 12 detailed lessons. These focus on practical skills needed for daily dental assistant duties.
• Dentrix Software Training: You’ll learn essential dental office tasks, using industry-standard software for managing patient records.
• Optional Hands-On Externship: Add practical experience to your online learning through an optional externship, bridging theoretical knowledge with real-world application.

Upon completing the course, you will receive a certificate of completion, enhancing your employability and potential earning capacity. The program is priced competitively at $500, with payment plans available to ease financial strain.

Find out more about the 90 Day Dental Assisting KC program.

Tips for Choosing the Best Dental Assistant Program in Kansas City

Choosing the right dental assistant program in Kansas City KS is crucial for your future success. Here are some tips to guide your decision:

1. Accreditation: Ensure the program is accredited by recognized agencies like the Commission on Dental Accreditation. This assures that the education meets industry standards and improves employability.
2. Curriculum Quality: Look for a well-rounded curriculum that covers dental anatomy, radiography, dental materials, and office management. A comprehensive curriculum prepares you for diverse dental tasks.
3. Clinical Training: Hands-on experience is vital. Programs offering clinical rotations or externships provide practical skills that classroom learning alone cannot.
4. Faculty Expertise: Research the instructors’ qualifications and experience. Highly experienced faculty can offer valuable insights and mentorship.
5. Flexibility: Consider whether the program offers online, in-person, or hybrid learning options. Flexible scheduling can be crucial if you are managing other commitments.
6. Financial Aids: Compare tuition costs and investigate financial aid options such as scholarships, grants, and loans. This can significantly affect the affordability of your education.
7. Reputation: Look for reviews and testimonials from former students. A program with a solid reputation often reflects quality education and successful graduate outcomes.

Take the time to visit program websites, attend information sessions, and consult with admissions advisors. These steps will help you make an informed decision and choose the best program that aligns with your career goals and personal circumstances.

Conclusion

In Kansas City KS, excellent dental assistant programs are available to help you start a promising career in the dental field. Whether you prefer in-person study or need the flexibility of an online program, each option offers unique strengths:

• Metropolitan Community College: Offers extensive clinical training and boasts a high success rate.
• Concorde Career College: Provides a fast-track option with comprehensive coursework and externship opportunities.
• Flint Hills Technical College: Features both certificate and associate degree options with strong industry connections.
• Garden City Community College: Delivers a flexible online program packed with essential skills and exam preparation.
• 90 Day Dental Assisting KC: Offers an affordable, self-paced online program with optional hands-on externship.

Choose the program that best suits your goals, needs, and lifestyle. Exploring these programs will help you find the perfect fit, leading you to a fulfilling career as a dental assistant.

Here’s to your success in the dental field!

Stay committed to your educational journey, and soon you’ll be making a significant impact as a trained dental assistant.

Learn more about these programs and take the next step towards your career.