Looking for classes in a specific city? Check out our lists of Dental Assistant Programs in Columbia, Independence, Kansas City, Lees Summit, Springfield, and St. Louis.
Want to jumpstart your career as a dental assistant?
Finding the ideal Dental Assistant Program in Missouri can be a game-changer. This guide highlights top programs across the state, providing key insights into what makes each one unique.
Whether you’re looking for hands-on experience, high certification rates, or flexible schedules, we’ve got you covered. Explore the best options and choose the right path to your future.
State Technical College of Missouri – Dental Assisting Technology
State Technical College of Missouri offers a Dental Assisting Technology program with notable accreditation from the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) and the American Dental Association.
This program begins each July and spans 11 months, preparing you for the Certified Dental Assisting (CDA) exam provided by the Dental Assisting National Board. Additionally, you’ll be on track to achieve Missouri Dental Board-approved Expanded Function Dental Assisting permits.
What you’ll gain:
- Certification: National Certified Dental Assistant, Missouri certification for nitrous oxide analgesia, and Missouri Expanded Function Dental Assistant registration.
- Potential Salary & Job Placement: Graduates have an average starting salary of $44,000 and a 96% job placement rate.
The curriculum emphasizes practical, hands-on training, with over 50 labs, including specialized facilities like automotive bays and aviation hangars. Emphases on practical skills ensure you’re well-prepared for a professional career.
Why it stands out:
- Accreditations: CODA and the American Dental Association.
- High Job Placement Rate: 96% job placement rate speaks volumes about their network and job assistance.
For more details about tuition, specific admissions requirements, and deadlines, visit State Technical College of Missouri.
Metropolitan Community College – Dental Assisting Program
The Metropolitan Community College (MCC) Dental Assisting Program is another excellent choice, accredited by CODA and known for its integration with the UMKC Dental School. Here’s why you might consider this program:
Program highlights:
- Clinical Experience: Over 300 hours of clinical training, including opportunities to work alongside dental students and faculty.
- Technology: Training includes Dental Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT).
- Certification: Prepares you for the CDA exam with a proven 100% success rate on the national board exam.
The program focuses on state-of-the-art technology and extensive clinical experience, ensuring a thorough preparation for a successful career in dental assisting.
Why it stands out:
- High Success Rate: A perfect 100% success rate on the national board exam.
- Hands-on Experience: Significant clinical training hours offer a deep dive into practical skills.
High employment rates and financial aid options make MCC’s Dental Assisting Program a compelling choice for aspiring dental assistants.
Cherry Hill Dental – Dental Assisting Program
Cherry Hill Dental offers a 10-week Dental Assisting Program with 50 hours of classroom instruction paired with clinical training. If you’re looking for a flexible yet intensive program, consider this:
Key features:
- Schedule: Classes are held on Saturdays, suitable for working individuals.
- Tuition: $3,600, inclusive of practical training in a clinical setting.
- Certification: Prepares students for the Missouri Dental Assisting Skills (MDAS) exam.
You’ll gain practical training in a real-life clinical environment, equipping you with essential skills such as chairside procedures, dental x-rays, and patient management.
What sets it apart:
- Flexible Scheduling: Saturday classes cater to those balancing work and study.
- Comprehensive Training: Combines classroom knowledge with hands-on clinical experience.
To explore more about their offerings, visit Cherry Hill Dental.
St. Charles Community College – Dental Assisting Program
St. Charles Community College offers a self-paced Dental Assisting Program that blends online learning with hands-on training, designed to suit your busy lifestyle.
Program features:
- Format: Self-paced online modules paired with clinical training.
- Certification: Prepares you for the American Medical Technologists (AMT) RDA exam and NELDA component exams.
- Course Length: Can be completed within 12 months.
Requirements include a personal computer and high-speed internet, emphasizing convenience and flexibility.
Standout points:
- Flexible Learning: Self-paced format allows you to balance other commitments.
- Comprehensive Material: Covers dental ethics, instrument sterilization, and various dental specialties.
Please note that financial aid isn’t available for this non-credit certificate course. For additional information on the curriculum and expenses, visit St. Charles Community College.
Ozarks Technical Community College – OTC Dental Assisting Program
The OTC Dental Assisting Program at Ozarks Technical Community College is accredited by CODA, providing robust training and diverse clinical rotations.
Program details:
- Duration: Over 12 months, encompassing clinical rotations in various settings.
- Skills Taught: Chairside assistance, oral surgery, office management, and lab duties.
- Certification: Prepares you for the CDA exam and Missouri Expanded Function Permits.
With a comprehensive curriculum that includes both clinical and administrative aspects, you’ll be well-prepared for a range of dental assisting roles.
What you’ll benefit from:
- Varied Clinical Rotations: Exposure to diverse dental environments.
- Accredited Program: CODA accreditation ensures a recognized standard of education.
Learn more about tuition, financial aid, and specific admissions requirements by visiting OTC’s Dental Assisting Program.
Midwest Institute – Dental Assistant Program
Midwest Institute’s Dental Assistant Program in St. Louis focuses on practical training using modern equipment. The Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES) accredits the program, adding credibility.
Program strengths:
- Individualized Learning: Emphasizes one-on-one learning environments.
- Certification: Prepares you for the National Entry Level Dental Assistant (NELDA) Certification Exam and Missouri’s “Basic Skills” exam.
- Curriculum: Includes infection control, dental radiology, and restorative dentistry.
The program’s high demand aligns with favorable career prospects noted by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Unique features:
- Hands-on Training: Extensive practical training with state-of-the-art equipment.
- Focused Learning: Smaller class sizes ensure personalized instruction.
See what else Midwest Institute offers by checking out their Dental Assistant Program.
CADA – 10-Week Dental Assistant Program
CADA’s 10-week program, located in the Greater St. Louis area, offers an accelerated path to becoming a dental assistant.
Program highlights:
- Duration: Only 10 weeks long, blending classroom and hands-on training.
- Flexible Payment: Various payment options are available, making it accessible.
- Job Placement: Strong job placement assistance helps you transition smoothly into your career.
Led by experienced dental professionals, CADA ensures you gain the critical skills needed for success in the dental field.
Reasons to choose CADA:
- Accelerated Program: Fast-tracked learning for quicker entry into the workforce.
- Professional Guidance: Instructors with real-world experience.
To learn more about what CADA offers, visit their Dental Assistant Program.
By carefully examining these options, you’ll find a program tailored to your career goals in dental assisting. These programs stand out due to their unique offerings and the quality of education they provide.
Midwest Technical Institute – Dental Assisting Program
Midwest Technical Institute’s 9-month Dental Assisting Program is designed for individuals seeking flexibility and comprehensive training in both clinical and administrative aspects of dental assistance.
Program details:
- Flexible scheduling: Day schedules are available to accommodate busy lives.
- In-depth curriculum: Covers infection control, dental radiology, restorative dentistry, and dental specialties.
- Hands-on experience: Simulated dental environment and externships provided.
- Certification readiness: Prepares students for necessary certification exams.
The program is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools & Colleges, with financial aid available to help manage tuition costs.
Highlights:
- Flexible Day Schedules: Tailor your education to fit your lifestyle.
- Certification Preparedness: Comprehensive prep for certification exams.
Explore more about Midwest Technical Institute’s Dental Assisting Program and see how it can fit your career aspirations.
Ozarks Technical Community College – Certificate in Dental Assisting
Ozarks Technical Community College’s Certificate in Dental Assisting stands out as a top choice. It’s the only program in Southwest Missouri accredited by CODA.
Program specifics:
- Curriculum: Matches the Applied Science degree but tailored for states where a full degree isn’t required.
- Certification: Prepares students to become certified dental assistants (CDA) upon course completion and passing the national exam.
- Hands-on training: In relevant dental procedures within high-quality settings.
This certificate ensures you get thorough training for a dental assisting role without the need for a full degree.
Why choose this program:
- Specialized Curriculum: Tailored for local licensure requirements.
- Accredited: CODA accreditation ensures educational quality.
For details on admission requirements and program costs, visit Ozarks Technical Community College’s Certificate in Dental Assisting.
Drury GO – Dental Assistant Program
Drury GO’s Dental Assistant Program partners with Missouri Ozarks Community Health and Four Rivers Community Health to provide pre-certification training in both dental assisting and clinical medical assisting.
Key features:
- Duration: Nine-to-ten weeks.
- Coverage: Clinical dentistry, radiology, infection control, and administrative skills.
- Certification Prep: Prepares graduates for industry certification exams.
- Enrollment: Open with various funding opportunities available.
Optional externships are available, adding practical exposure to your learning journey.
Program strengths:
- Partnerships: Collaborations with established health centers.
- Flexible & Affordable: Various funding opportunities might cover your education costs.
Learn more about the program starting in January 2024 by visiting Drury GO.
Concorde Career Colleges – Dental Assistant Diploma Program
At their Kansas City campus, Concorde Career Colleges offer a Dental Assistant Diploma Program that can be completed in as few as 9 months.
Program benefits:
- Comprehensive training: Covers dental radiology, specialties, patient care, and practice management.
- Hands-on experience: Real-world experience through externships.
- Certification Prep: Prepares for various certification exams.
- High job placement rate: Ensuring employability in diverse dental settings.
Why it’s recommended:
- Real-world Externships: Ensures practical experience.
- Fast-tracked Learning: Ready for the job market in just 9 months.
For specifics on tuition and program hours, reach out to Concorde Career Colleges.
Franklin Technology Center – Dental Assistant Program
Franklin Technology Center’s Dental Assistant Program in Joplin, MO, focuses on comprehensive hands-on training.
Program details:
- Curriculum: Includes dental anatomy, materials, radiology, infection control, and clinical procedures.
- Facilities: State-of-the-art clinics and materials labs for practical experience.
- Accreditation: American Dental Association’s Commission on Dental Accreditation.
Standout points:
- Extensive Hands-on Training: Practical training through clinical rotations.
- Accredited Program: Ensures a high-quality educational experience.
Confirm specific application process details and costs by checking out the Franklin Technology Center’s Dental Assistant Program.
How to Choose the Right Dental Assistant Program in Missouri
Choosing the right dental assistant program is crucial for your career success. Keep these factors in mind:
- Accreditation: Ensure the program is accredited by CODA or relevant bodies. Accreditation guarantees recognized standards of education.
- Curriculum: The program should cover crucial areas like dental radiology, infection control, and chairside assisting.
- Hands-on Experience: Look for programs offering abundant clinical training hours in diverse settings.
- Duration: Consider the program’s length and how it fits into your schedule. Accelerated programs may suit some, while traditional paces work for others.
- Cost: Evaluate tuition fees and explore financial aid or scholarships that can alleviate financial burdens.
- Job Placement Rates: A program with high job placement rates signals effectiveness. Graduate success stories can provide valuable insights.
- Location & Resources: Proximity to your residence and additional resources like career counseling can influence your decision.
To make an informed choice, contact program administrators to clarify any uncertainties regarding admissions, deadlines, and other pertinent details.
Dental Assistant Programs By State
Final Thoughts on Dental Assistant Programs in Missouri
In conclusion, selecting the right dental assistant program in Missouri involves careful consideration of accreditation, curriculum, hands-on experience, and more. The choice you make will set the foundation for your professional journey. Take the time to explore these exemplary programs, each with unique strengths, to find the perfect match for your career aspirations.
Continue exploring the links provided to make an educated decision and embark on your path to becoming a successful dental assistant.