Not in Plano? Check out our lists of Dental Assistant Programs in Round Rock, San Angelo, San Antonio, Sugar Land, The Woodlands, Tyler, Waco, Wichita Falls, and across Texas.
Searching for the best dental assistant programs in Plano, TX? Look no further.
This article highlights the top programs in your area, detailing what makes each unique, their hands-on training opportunities, and affordability.
Whether you’re starting fresh or seeking to upgrade your skills, we’ve got you covered!
Dallas Dental Assistant School – Dental Assistant Course
The Dallas Dental Assistant School offers a 12-week program designed to provide you with the essential skills for a successful dental assisting career. This program stands out due to its innovative hybrid model, combining in-person labs and online lectures.
- Hands-on training: Weekly in-person labs at local dental offices ensure practical experience and skills development.
- Flexible learning: Self-paced online lectures allow you to balance learning with other commitments.
- Affordable tuition: The school ensures minimal financial burden through flexible payment plans and no student debt.
- Career support: Dedicated job placement services and job readiness labs help in navigating your career path.
- Versatile schedule: Various locations and weekend classes provide the flexibility needed for busy lifestyles.
This is a viable and adaptable option if you’re looking to enter the dental assisting field without significant financial strain.
Collin College – Dental Assistant Training Program
Collin College’s Dental Assistant Training Program is structured to prepare you for a vital role within dental healthcare teams. The program spans 100 hours of classroom and lab experience accompanied by an additional 50 hours of clinical practice at a local dental facility.
- Detailed instruction: Learn a wide range of techniques, including chairside procedures, x-ray theory, dental radiographs, infection control, billing, and handling dental emergencies.
- Certification preparation: Upon completion, you’re eligible for the Texas State Board of Dental Examiners Registered Dental Assistant exam.
- Affordable investment: The program costs $1,695, with an additional $300 fee for clinical hours plus a textbook purchase.
- Practical experience: A 50-hour externship ensures you’re work-ready, mandatory for taking the State Board Exam.
This program effectively combines theoretical knowledge with practical application, crafting well-rounded dental assistants ready for certification.
Aspire Dental Assisting School – Dental Assistant Program
The Dental Assistant Program at Aspire Dental Assisting School is a 10-week course that emphasizes personalized training and hands-on experience right from the start.
- Individualized instruction: Small class sizes ensure you receive personalized attention and training.
- Hands-on training: The program facilitates hands-on practice in a real dental office environment.
- Comprehensive support: Benefit from a one-week externship and comprehensive job placement assistance.
- Flexible payment options: CareCredit financing and other flexible payment plans help manage your educational expenses.
- Certification guidance: The program provides tailored support through the Registered Dental Assistant exam and certification process.
This course is perfect for anyone seeking thorough training, personalized attention, and robust job placement support.
Gentle Dental Assistant School – Dental Assisting Program
Gentle Dental Assistant School offers a 12-week program approved by the Texas Workforce Commission, ensuring quality training standards.
- Personal attention: Small class sizes provide dedicated, private training environments.
- Experienced instructors: Leverage over 28 years of combined experience from the school’s educators.
- Flexible schedules: Evening and weekend classes allow you to fit learning into your busy schedule.
- Hands-on training: Real dental office settings provide practical skills and experience.
- Job placement assistance: Support in finding employment post-graduation, with potential starting salaries around $20 per hour.
The school’s competitive pricing and extensive experience make it a top choice for future dental assistants.
Dallas College – Dental Assisting Program
The Dental Assisting Program at Dallas College is designed to provide you with both theoretical and practical knowledge essential for a dental career.
- Comprehensive curriculum: Covers dental theory, four-handed chairside procedures, radiography, and infection control.
- Practical experience: Observational and hands-on assisting in dental office settings ensure you are ready for real-world applications.
- Certification readiness: Prepares you for Texas certification in radiology, infection control, and jurisprudence.
- Accredited education: Recognized as a Texas State Board of Dental Examiners approved CE course provider.
This program offers a balanced education with a strong emphasis on hands-on training, making it a great option to kickstart your dental assisting career.
Zollege – Dental Assistant Program
The Zollege Dental Assistant Program offers a streamlined, flexible approach to dental assistant education. This 12-week course is designed to provide you with practical skills and experience crucial for a successful career in dental assisting.
- Hands-on training: Led by experienced dental assistants, the program focuses on practical, skills-based training.
- Externship hours: Gain real-world experience through externship hours, ensuring you are job-ready.
- Job placement assistance: Benefit from robust job placement support that helps you transition into the workforce.
- Flexible payment plans: Accessible and affordable education is facilitated through various payment options.
This program is ideal for those seeking to quickly enter the dental assisting field with the necessary skills and confidence.
Concorde Career Colleges – Dental Assistant Program
The Concorde Career Colleges Dental Assistant Program is an intensive, accelerated course that can be completed in as little as eight months.
- In-depth curriculum: Covers dental terminology, patient care, radiology, and various assisting procedures.
- Clinical experiences: Off-site clinical practicums provide real-world training, though externship and job outcomes are not guaranteed.
- Future job growth: Job growth for dental assistants is projected at 7%, offering job security and opportunities.
- State board endorsements: Endorsed by the Florida State Board of Dentistry and the Dental Board of Tennessee.
Contact the admissions office for detailed information on tuition and start dates. This program is well-suited for those aiming to fast-track their dental career.
McKinney Dental Assistant School – Dental Assistant Program
The McKinney Dental Assistant School offers a cost-effective, 12-week program that balances affordability with quality education.
- Hybrid learning model: Weekly in-person labs combined with self-paced online lectures offer flexibility and hands-on experience.
- Experienced instructors: Learn from passionate professionals committed to your educational success.
- Job readiness labs: Prepare for the real-world with practical job readiness training.
- Tuition affordability: Low tuition costs and flexible payment options make education accessible without accruing student debt.
This program is an excellent choice for those looking to start their dental assisting career on a budget.
Tips for Choosing the Best Dental Assistant Program
Selecting the right dental assistant program in Plano, TX can significantly impact your career trajectory. Here are essential criteria to consider:
- Accreditation: Ensure the program is accredited by relevant educational authorities. This guarantees that the curriculum meets industry standards and improves job prospects.
- Comprehensive curriculum: A well-rounded curriculum should cover dental theory, practical skills, and administrative tasks. Look for programs that include hands-on training and experience in real dental practices.
- Hands-on training opportunities: Practical experience is crucial for mastering dental assisting skills. Programs that offer externships or clinical practicums provide invaluable real-world training.
- Program duration: Consider the length of the program and how it fits within your career timeline. Shorter programs offer quicker entry into the workforce, while longer programs may offer more in-depth training.
- Tuition fees and financial aid: Evaluate the cost of the program and available financing options. Look for schools that offer flexible payment plans or financial aid to make your education more affordable.
- Job placement rates: Programs with high job placement rates can significantly ease your transition into the workforce. Research schools that offer robust job placement support and career services.
- Location and schedule flexibility: Ensure the program’s location and schedule align with your personal obligations. Consider schools that offer evening or weekend classes if you need to balance education with work or family commitments.
By carefully assessing these factors, you can choose a program that aligns with your career goals and personal circumstances, setting you up for success in the field of dental assisting.
Summarizing Excellence in Dental Assistant Programs in Plano TX
To summarize, Plano, TX, offers a variety of top-notch dental assistant programs that cater to diverse learning needs and financial situations. From the flexible schedules of the Dallas Dental Assistant School to the accelerated course at Concorde Career Colleges, each program provides unique benefits designed to prepare you for a fulfilling career in dental assisting.
Explore these programs further to find the one that best meets your needs and goals. Embark on your journey toward a rewarding career as a dental assistant today.