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Top Dental Assistant Programs in Rhode Island
Looking to start a career in dental assisting in Rhode Island? This guide outlines the top Dental Assistant Programs in Rhode Island, detailing each program’s features, curriculum, and certification preparation.
Find the best fit for your career goals.
Community College of Rhode Island – Dental Assisting Program
The Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI) – Dental Assisting Program offers an accredited pathway that equips you with the skills needed to become a Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) through the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB). This program aims to ensure you are competent and confident in delivering quality, patient-centered dental care.
Key Highlights
- Accreditation: Recognized and accredited, ensuring a high standard of education that meets industry benchmarks.
- Comprehensive Curriculum: The program includes diverse subjects such as dental anatomy, infection control, radiography, and chairside assisting.
- Experienced Faculty: Led by dedicated faculty, including Program Director Kerri H. Friel and Assistant Professors Audra Lavoie, Sarah Luther, and Aubrie Viera.
- Clinical Experience: Offers hands-on learning opportunities in dental labs and real-world clinical settings to give you practical skills.
- Certification Preparation: Prepares students to sit for the DANB’s Certified Dental Assistant exam, enhancing your employability.
Admission Requirements
- Performance-Based Application: Requires submission of a Performance-Based Health Science Application.
- Educational Background: Must meet specified academic prerequisites to qualify.
The CCRI Dental Assisting Program provides you with the educational grounding to step into the fast-growing dental assisting field. Explore more about this program here.
Genesis Center – RISnapet Dental Assistant Training Program
The RISnapet Dental Assistant Training Program at Genesis Center offers a 12-week training schedule designed to build your knowledge and skills in dental assisting. This program ensures you are well-prepared to enter the workforce efficiently.
Program Structure & Requirements
- Schedule:
- Weekly Commitment: 27.5 hours, totaling 385 hours
Key Benefits
- Certifications: Earn a First Aid/CPR Certificate and Dental Radiology Certification upon completion.
- Comprehensive Training: Covers vital topics such as radiology, dental anatomy, sanitation and safety, dental procedures, HIPAA regulations, and financial literacy.
- Support Services: Eligible participants receive childcare co-pays (if applicable), materials, certificate costs, and transportation assistance.
Eligibility Criteria
- High School Credential: Must have a high school diploma or equivalent.
- Reading Level: Required to read at a secondary level.
- Background Check: Must pass a BCI background check.
- Vaccination: COVID-19 vaccination is a prerequisite.
Whether you’re new to dental assisting or seeking to validate your skills, the Genesis Center’s Dental Assistant Training Program is tailored to fit your needs. Learn more about this program here.
Community College of Rhode Island – Workforce Dental Assistant Program
The Workforce Dental Assistant Program at Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI) is a 14-week non-CDA entry-level program. This course is part of CCRI’s commitment to providing workforce-aligned educational opportunities.
Key Aspects
- Program Duration: A 14-week intensive course designed to provide basic dental assisting skills.
- Hands-On Training: Includes a required externship that gives students practical, real-world experience.
- Certification Exams: Prepares you to sit for two of the DANB certification exams.
Curriculum Components
- Clinical Skills: Training in dental procedures and office functions, including four-handed dentistry.
- Safety Protocols: Ensures compliance with CDC, OSHA, and Bloodborne Pathogens standards.
- Sterilization Practices: Hands-on learning of disinfection and sterilization processes.
Admission Requirements
- Immunization: Full vaccination is necessary for participation.
- Partnership Benefits: Offered in collaboration with Real Jobs Rhode Island, making it a no-cost option for eligible students.
Target Audience
- Entry-Level Trainees: Ideal for those seeking foundational dental assisting skills and experience.
CCRI’s Workforce Dental Assistant Program stands out for its structured, practical training aimed at fulfilling workforce demands. For more details, visit CCRI’s Workforce Dental Assistant Program page.
Lincoln Tech – Dental Assisting Program
The Lincoln Tech Dental Assisting Program in Lincoln, RI, prepares students for essential dental assisting certifications and practical skills needed for the workforce. This program integrates both theoretical knowledge and hands-on training.
Core Features
- Certification Preparation: Focuses on preparing students for the Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) exam, specifically the RHS and ICE portions.
- Hands-On Learning: Offers extensive lab training, simulating real dental office environments.
- Practical Skills: Includes techniques in dental office management, dental radiography, chairside assisting, and infection control.
Curriculum Details
- Dental Procedures: Covers a variety of procedures, from oral surgery to cosmetic treatments.
- Patient Care: Emphasizes a patient-centric approach, crucial for the healthcare industry.
- Externship: Includes a clinical externship, which provides invaluable real-world experience.
Career Outlook
- Job Opportunities: According to ONet Online, the demand for dental assistants in Rhode Island is projected to rise, with approximately 900 job openings by 2030.
Whether you are starting your journey or looking to enhance your skills, Lincoln Tech provides the training you need. Discover more about the Lincoln Tech Dental Assisting Program here.
Genesis Center – Dental Assistant Program
The Genesis Center Dental Assistant Program is a 10-week blend of online and hands-on training sessions aimed at equipping you with the necessary skills for a dental assisting career. Classes are held at the Genesis Center in Providence.
Program Details
- Duration:
- Free Training: Qualified candidates can participate at no cost.
Certification & Benefits
- Certifications: Graduates receive Radiology Certification from the Goldman Dental School at Boston University and CPR and First Aid certification from the American Heart Association.
- Stipend: Participants also receive a stipend during the program.
- Hands-On Experience: Training sessions offer practical skills and real-world experience in dental labs.
Why Choose This Program?
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Covers essential dental assisting knowledge and skills, preparing you for immediate entry into the workforce.
- Support: Provides financial assistance and support services to participants.
The Genesis Center Dental Assistant Program offers a well-rounded, effective training experience for aspiring dental assistants. To learn more, visit Genesis Center Dental Assistant Program page.
Lincoln Technical Institute – Dental Assistant Program
The Lincoln Technical Institute Dental Assistant Program in Rhode Island is designed to cultivate competent entry-level dental assistants through a detailed curriculum and practical experience.
What You’ll Learn
- Preventive Dentistry: Gain knowledge about procedures that help maintain oral health and prevent dental issues.
- Four-Handed Dentistry: Learn the efficient technique of working alongside the dentist to enhance productivity.
- Chairside Assisting: Understand the fundamentals of assisting with various dental procedures, including oral surgery, pediatrics, and orthodontics.
- Prosthodontics and Implants: Familiarize yourself with the materials and techniques used in fixed and removable prosthodontics.
- Dental Radiology: Acquire the skills needed to perform radiographic procedures safely and effectively.
- Practice Management: Grasp business aspects essential for running a successful dental clinic, including scheduling, billing, and patient communication.
Cost and Financial Aid
- Total Cost: $21,441 (subject to change)
- Financial Assistance: Eligible for Pell Grants and up to $15,000 through Individual Training Accounts under WIOA (availability may vary).
Certification Preparation
- Exams: Students are encouraged to take the Radiation Health and Safety (RHS) and Infection Control (ICE) exams from the DANB.
- Certification: While passing these exams is beneficial, it is not a graduation requirement.
To discover more about the Lincoln Technical Institute Dental Assistant Program, visit the official page.
Community College of Rhode Island – Dental Assistant Program
The Flanagan Campus of the Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI) provides a robust dental assistant program complete with a blend of lecture, laboratory, and clinical classes.
Program Enhancements
- Flexible Scheduling: Options for day and evening classes, making it suitable for various lifestyles.
- Full Curriculum: Courses include dental anatomy, radiology, infection control, chairside assisting, and office management.
- Laboratory Training: Hands-on experience in CCRI’s state-of-the-art dental labs, preparing you for real-world situations.
Length of Program
- Day Classes: Up to 51 weeks
- Evening Classes: Approximately 72 weeks
- Completion Timeline: Offers flexibility, allowing you to fit education into your schedule.
Costs
- Tuition: Offers competitive tuition rates, ensuring accessible quality education.
Learn more about the program specifics and start your journey by visiting CCRI.
Community College of Rhode Island – Dental Assisting Certificate Program
CCRI offers a rigorous Dental Assisting Certificate Program at its Flanagan Campus, designed to prepare students thoroughly for their careers.
Curriculum Overview
- Holistic Education: Incorporates lecture and laboratory classes along with clinical experiences in dental health facilities.
- Specialized Courses:
Certification Process
- Exam Preparation: Prepares students to sit for the Dental Assisting National Board certification exam.
- Patient Interaction: Emphasizes real-world preparation, exposing students to challenges like infectious diseases and bloodborne pathogens.
Requirements
- Application: Must complete a CCRI Application for Enrollment and score 80 or above on the ACCUPLACER.
- GPA: Maintain a GPA of 2.0 or better.
- Recommendations: An Introduction to Dental Health Careers course may be recommended.
For comprehensive details and to apply, visit the certificate program page.
Tips for Choosing the Best Dental Assistant Program in Rhode Island
Choosing the right dental assistant program in Rhode Island requires careful consideration. Here’s a guide to help you make the best choice for your career.
Key Factors
- Accreditation: Ensure your program is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) or a similar entity to receive a recognized education.
- Curriculum: A thorough curriculum should cover essential areas such as dental anatomy, radiography, dental procedures, and infection control. It should also balance theory with practical hands-on training.
- Clinical Experience: Look for programs that offer substantial clinical experience through partnerships with local dental clinics or practices. This hands-on exposure is invaluable.
- Cost and Financial Aid: Compare tuition costs and explore available financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and payment plans. Affordability can influence your decision.
- Location and Convenience: Choose a program that is conveniently located or offers online components to accommodate your schedule.
- Certification Preparation: Ensure the program prepares you for relevant certification exams like the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) exams, which are crucial for enhancing your employability.
Making an informed decision based on these criteria will set you on the path to a successful dental assisting career.
Dental Assistant Programs By State
Conclusion and Next Steps
Starting a career as a dental assistant in Rhode Island begins with choosing the right program that suits your needs and career objectives. Each program outlined above offers unique strengths, whether it’s comprehensive training, hands-on experience, or flexible scheduling. Delve into the details of each one and consider what aligns best with your personal circumstances.
Explore the available options:
- The Community College of Rhode Island offers a robust academic and practical foundation.
- Genesis Center provides intensive, short-term training with additional support services.
- Lincoln Technical Institute focuses on certification preparation and real-world skills.
Take the next step toward a fulfilling career in dental assisting by choosing the program that best matches your goals and lifestyle. Pursue your interest, apply to your chosen program, and embark on a path that promises a rewarding future in the dental health care field.