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Struggling to find the best Dental Assistant Programs in Newport News, VA? You’re in the right place.
We’ve done the research to highlight top programs, detailing their strengths and what sets them apart.
From certification opportunities to career prospects, this guide provides clear, actionable information to help you make an informed decision.
New Horizons Regional Education Centers – Dental Assistant Program
New Horizons Regional Education Centers offers an acclaimed Dental Assistant program in Newport News, VA, which provides in-depth training suitable for those aiming to enter the dental field.
- Structure and Duration: This program runs annually in the fall semester and involves 240 hours of training.
- Certification Preparation: Graduates are eligible to sit for the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) Radiation Health and Safety Certification exam.
- Exam Details: The certification exam fee is $240, and Virginia state requirements include completion of a radiation safety course and exam from a CODA-accredited institution.
- Financial Assistance: Financial aid might be available through the Youth Workforce grant program.
- Skill Development: Students learn to sterilize dental equipment, prepare patients, assist during procedures, and instruct patients on oral healthcare.
Entry into this program requires a high school diploma. New Horizons equips you with day-to-day skills essential for working in a dental setting, making it an excellent choice for those pursuing a career as a dental assistant.
Practical Dental Assisting – Dental Assisting Program
Located in Virginia Beach, Practical Dental Assisting serves students from Newport News, VA, with a robust dental assisting program.
- Completion Time: You can complete this program in less than a year.
- Faculty Experience: The program is taught by experienced instructors in modern facilities.
- Key Skills: Training includes placing dental dams, assisting with procedures, and other essential techniques.
- Accreditation and Reputation: The program is certified by the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia (SCHEV) and highly regarded by local dentists.
- Flexible Learning: Flexible enrollment options and financial assistance, such as the GI Bill® and military tuition assistance, add value.
- Career Services: Employment services are available to help connect graduates with job opportunities.
This program stands out due to its practical approach and supportive learning environment, positioning you for success in the dental field.
New Horizons Career and Technical Education Center – Dental Assistant Program
The New Horizons Career and Technical Education Center in Newport News, VA, offers a two-year Dental Assistant Program designed to equip students with a broad range of skills.
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Topics include infection control, OSHA standards, dental anatomy, office administration, medical emergencies, operative techniques, and coronal polishing.
- Admission Requirements: Prospective students need a minimum 10th-grade reading level and a “B” grade in Biology.
- Additional Costs: The program includes fees for CPR/BLS training, rental deposit, X-Ray Practice Exam, and student organization membership.
- Experienced Instruction: With over 20 years of teaching experience, the instructor prepares students for diverse roles such as lab technicians, dental hygienists, and office managers.
- Internships: Hands-on experience is gained through internships with local dental offices.
This program prepares you for various roles in the dental industry, with a projected growth rate of 18% from 2014-2024, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
ECPI University – Dental Assistant Program
ECPI University in Newport News offers a Dental Assistant Program that equips students with essential skills for careers in dental offices or hospital settings.
- Core Topics: The curriculum focuses on dental anatomy, dental fundamentals, clinical science, chairside assisting, dental materials, radiology, and practice management.
- Hands-On Training: Includes both classroom instruction and clinical rotations, capped by a 10-week externship for real-world experience.
- Certification Preparation: Graduates are prepared to sit for the Dental Assisting National Examination.
- Career Opportunities: Graduates can work in dental offices, hospitals, and dental supply companies.
- Safety Emphasis: Instruction on best practices for patient and staff safety, radiograph techniques, dental impressions, and oral hygiene is included.
ECPI University’s student-centered approach fosters personal and professional growth, making it a strong option for those looking to enter the dental assisting field.
By exploring these outstanding Dental Assistant Programs in Newport News, VA, you can find the perfect fit to start or enhance your career in dental assistance.
Virginia Peninsula Community College – Dental Hygiene Program
Virginia Peninsula Community College offers a Dental Hygiene Program accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation. Although it is currently paused for new enrollments, it’s renowned for its thorough education in oral healthcare.
- Accredited Program: The program holds accreditation from the Commission on Dental Accreditation, ensuring it meets high educational standards.
- Curriculum: Continuously updated to incorporate the latest in dental hygiene practices and infectious disease policies.
- Alternatives: While waiting for the program to reopen, prospective students can explore other health science degrees and workforce credential programs offered by the college.
- Information Access: Prospective students are encouraged to visit the college website or contact the admissions office for specific details on courses, hours, and fees.
Accelerated Academy – Dental Assistant Program
Accelerated Academy in Newport News offers an accessible and cost-effective Dental Assistant Program aimed at providing quick and thorough training.
- Flexible Payments: Pay-as-you-go system alleviates the burden of upfront tuition fees.
- High Success Rate: Many students secure employment before completing the program.
- Skillset: Students gain comprehensive practical skills quickly, encompassing tasks like sterilizing tools, managing patient records, and assisting dentists during procedures.
- Industry Endorsements: Supported by 667 industry professionals and boasts a 98% graduation rate, attesting to the program’s quality and effectiveness.
Centura College – Dental Assistant Program
Centura College in Newport News delivers a robust Dental Assistant Program focused on both theoretical knowledge and practical skills through coursework and externships.
- Balanced Curriculum: Covers dental anatomy, radiology, materials, infection control, and chairside assisting.
- Externship Component: Offers hands-on experience in dental settings, essential for bridging classroom learning with real-world application.
- Accreditation and Standards: The program meets high educational standards, preparing students for successful careers.
- Job Placement Assistance: The school provides guidance and support in connecting graduates with potential employers.
- Inquiries: Prospective students should inquire directly about specific program hours and tuition fees.
How to Choose the Best Dental Assistant Program
Selecting the ideal Dental Assistant Program in Newport News, VA, requires careful consideration of several factors. Here’s a guide to help you make an informed choice:
- Accreditation: Make sure the program is accredited to guarantee a quality standard of education and increase your employability prospects.
- Curriculum Quality: Evaluate whether the program includes hands-on training through clinical rotations or externships. These practical experiences are crucial for gaining real-world skills.
- Support Services: Consider what support the school offers, such as job placement assistance and career counseling, which can be invaluable in securing employment post-graduation.
- Financial Aspects: Investigate the cost of the program, any available financial aid, grants, and flexible payment plans that can help manage expenses.
- Reputation and Success Rates: Look at the school’s reputation, industry partnerships, and the success rate of its graduates. High success rates often indicate a strong educational framework and effective training.
- Resources: Check for modern facilities and updated equipment, as these resources contribute significantly to your learning experience.
- Accessibility: Ensure the location and class schedules align with your personal commitments. Flexibility can be a deciding factor, especially if you’re balancing other responsibilities.
- State-specific Certification Requirements: Understand the professional standards and certification requirements in Virginia to choose a program that aligns with these standards.
Conclusion: Making the Right Choice for Your Future
Finding the best Dental Assistant Program in Newport News, VA, is a crucial step toward your career in dental assistance. By considering accreditation, curriculum quality, support services, financial aspects, reputation, resources, accessibility, and certification requirements, you can select a program that aligns with your goals and sets you up for success in this rewarding field.
Take the time to explore these options and decide which program best fits your aspirations and circumstances. Each of these programs offers unique benefits and opportunities to help you embark on a fulfilling career as a dental assistant.