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Looking to start a promising career in dental healthcare? Discover the best dental assistant programs in New Hampshire to find the perfect fit for your goals.
This guide highlights top programs, including key details like accreditation, hands-on training, and certification preparation, ensuring you can make an informed decision quickly and confidently.
NHTI – Dental Assisting Certificate Program
Discover NHTI’s Dental Assisting Certificate Program, the only accredited dental assisting program in New Hampshire. This rigorous program equips you with the necessary skills to excel both clinically and administratively in dental practices. The coursework is designed to prepare you for the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) national certification exam, enhancing your career prospects in the dental field.
Key features of the NHTI program include:
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Includes Dental Radiology, Dental Materials, and Dental Assisting Theory.
- Hands-On Experience: Real-world dental office experience helps you gain confidence and competence.
- Eligibility for Certification: Graduates can sit for the DANB exam and perform specialized duties like x-rays and sutures.
Admission requirements are straightforward and include:
- Prerequisites: High school Biology or Chemistry.
- Informational Interview: With the Dental Admissions Committee.
- Observation Hours: At least 20 hours in a dental office, with exemptions for current employees.
The program prepares you for diverse roles within dental healthcare teams and offers both full-time and part-time options. Applications are accepted on a space-available basis until May 1, 2024.
Learn more about the NHTI Dental Assisting Certificate Program.
University of New Hampshire – Dental Assisting Program
The University of New Hampshire offers a Dental Assisting Program designed for entry-level roles in the rapidly expanding dental care field. This 100-hour program combines 60 hours of classroom instruction with 40 hours of clinical externship, ensuring you are well-prepared for dental office environments.
Program highlights include:
- Comprehensive Topic Coverage: Introduction to dentistry, legal aspects, oral anatomy, and dental operatory procedures.
- Hands-On Training: Includes dental handpieces, sterilization techniques, and more.
- Certification: While some requirements, like the RHS exam, are completed outside the program.
The program is facilitated by experienced dentists and is now offered online through Ed2go, making it accessible to a broader range of students. It’s an ideal choice if you plan to further your education in dental hygiene.
Explore the University of New Hampshire Dental Assisting Program.
NHTI – Expanded Function Dental Auxiliary (EFDA) Program
Elevate your dental career with NHTI’s Expanded Function Dental Auxiliary (EFDA) Program. Perfect for Registered Dental Hygienists (RDHs) or Certified Dental Assistants (CDAs) with significant clinical experience, this program prepares you for advanced restorative duties within dental practices.
Program structure includes:
- Classroom Instruction: 50 hours of foundational learning.
- Pre-Clinical Training: 100 hours of practical training on typodonts.
- Clinical Hours: At least 120 clinical hours supervised by a sponsoring dentist.
This 270-hour program emphasizes hands-on experience and proficiency in restorative procedures like placing and contouring restorative materials. Enrollment is competitive, so early application is recommended.
Details on the NHTI Expanded Function Dental Auxiliary (EFDA) Program can be found by following the link.
New Hampshire Dental Society – Qualified Dental Assisting Program
The New Hampshire Dental Society’s Qualified Dental Assisting Program offers hybrid courses tailored for dental assistants working under member dentists. These courses focus on enhancing your skills and expanding your competencies within dental offices.
Program Highlights:
- Infection Control: Learn best practices for maintaining a sterile environment.
- Preliminary Oral Inspection: Gain the expertise to assist in initial patient assessments.
- Coronal Polishing: Develop proficiency in polishing teeth, a task critical for patient dental care.
- Crown and Bridge Restoration: Get hands-on training in assisting with these intricate procedures.
- Nitrous Oxide Monitoring: Understand the principles and practices of monitoring this sedation method.
- Sealant Certification: Equip yourself with the skills to apply dental sealants.
- Radiography Training: Master the use of radiographic equipment, a vital part of dental diagnostics.
These hybrid courses are a blend of online instruction and hands-on practice, designed to fit into your busy schedule. They provide invaluable practical skills directly applicable to your daily work in dental offices.
Registration is straightforward; select “Assistant” under the Primary Function tab on the registration page. For more details on course hours, prices, and prerequisites, contact the New Hampshire Dental Society at 603-225-5961.
Learn more about the New Hampshire Dental Society Qualified Dental Assisting Program.
Penn Foster – Dental Assisting Diploma Program
Penn Foster offers an online Dental Assisting diploma program that provides flexibility and a self-paced learning environment. This makes it ideal if you are balancing work or personal responsibilities while pursuing your education.
Program Features:
- Dental Anatomy: Understand the structure and function of the teeth and oral cavity.
- Preventative Dentistry: Learn the principles of maintaining dental health and preventing disease.
- Radiography: Acquire knowledge and skills in dental imaging.
- Dental Office Management: Gain administrative skills necessary for running a successful dental practice.
A key element of Penn Foster’s program is the 200-hour externship. This provides you with essential real-world experience in a dental office, crucial for hands-on learning and skill development. Graduates are also prepared to sit for the DANB national certification exam, an important credential in the dental field.
Before enrolling, ensure the program meets the regulatory requirements of the state where you intend to practice, as regulations can vary.
Discover more about the Penn Foster Dental Assisting Diploma Program.
What to Consider When Choosing a Dental Assistant Program in New Hampshire
Selecting the right dental assistant program requires careful consideration. Here are several critical factors to guide your decision:
- Accreditation: Verify that the program is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA). Accreditation ensures high educational standards and credit transferability.
- Curriculum: Look for programs offering a robust curriculum that includes both administrative and clinical dental assisting topics such as dental anatomy, radiography, and patient care.
- Clinical Experience: Prioritize programs that offer hands-on training through externships or internships in dental offices. Practical experience is invaluable for skill development.
- Certification Preparation: Ensure the program prepares you for the DANB national certification exam. Certified Dental Assistants (CDAs) have a competitive edge in the job market.
- Flexibility and Format: Consider whether the program offers part-time, full-time, online, or hybrid formats. Flexible scheduling can help you balance education with other commitments.
- Cost and Financial Aid: Assess the total cost, including tuition, books, and materials. Check for financial aid, scholarships, or payment plans.
- Instructor Qualifications: Research the experience and qualifications of the instructors. Programs led by seasoned dental professionals ensure higher-quality education.
- Career Services: Some programs offer job placement assistance, resume workshops, and interview preparation. These services can facilitate your transition from education to employment.
- Reputation and Job Placement Rates: Investigate the program’s reputation and graduate outcomes. High job placement rates indicate the program effectively prepares students for the workforce.
By considering these factors, you can select a program that aligns with your career goals and provides a strong foundation for your future as a dental assistant.
Dental Assistant Programs By State
Wrapping Up Your Dental Assistant Training Search
Finding the right dental assistant program in New Hampshire is a significant step toward a rewarding career in dental healthcare. Whether you choose NHTI’s accredited programs or the flexible online option from Penn Foster, ensure that the program you select meets state requirements and fits your needs. Take the time to research accreditation, curriculum, hands-on experience, and financial aspects to make an informed decision. Best of luck as you embark on this exciting career path!