Dental Assistant Programs in St. Paul MN

Feeling lost in choosing the right dental assistant program in St. Paul MN? You’ve come to the right place.

This blog post breaks down the top Dental Assistant Programs in St. Paul MN, highlighting their unique features and benefits.

Say goodbye to endless searching and find out which program best fits your career goals and needs.

Century College – Dental Assistant Program

Century College offers a highly competitive Dental Assistant Program in St. Paul, MN. The program is accredited by the American Dental Association’s Commission of Accreditation, assuring high-quality education and training in dental assisting.

Highlights

• Patient Care Focus: Emphasizes patient care, preparing students with skills in chairside assisting, patient education, and more.
• Comprehensive Curriculum: Covers dental office operations, including radiographs, study models, and business forms.
• Professional Opportunities: Graduates find roles in private dental offices, public health institutions, and more.

Certification and Licensing

• Certification Exam Eligibility: Graduates can take the Dental Assisting National Board Certification Exam.
• State Licensure Exam: Eligible for the Minnesota State Board of Dentistry Dental Assistant State Licensure Exam.

Experienced Faculty

• Ms. Rita Gordon: Extensive background in dental assisting.
• Ms. Nicole Gresczyk: Passionate about dental education.

Admission Criteria

• GPA Evaluation: Based on GPA and completion of prerequisite courses.
• Prerequisite Coursework: College-level English placement and specific prerequisite courses are mandatory.

Financial Overview

• Affordable Tuition: Significantly lower tuition compared to private colleges.
• Financial Aid: Includes grants, scholarships, and work-study opportunities.

Overall, Century College’s program equips students with both practical and theoretical knowledge, ensuring readiness for a thriving career in dental assisting.

Dakota County Technical College – Dental Assistant Program

Dakota County Technical College’s Dental Assistant Program in St. Paul, MN prepares students for careers as certified and licensed dental assistants. This program is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of the American Dental Association.

Key Features

• Hands-On Training: Focuses on exposing and processing dental x-rays, chairside skills, and expanded functions.
• Preventive Dentistry: Coursework on controlling and preventing dental disease, with emphasis on communication skills for patient education.

Certification Success

• High Pass Rates: Notable pass rates in the Radiation Health and Safety, Infection Control, and General Chairside exams.
• Externship Opportunities: Offers externship programs, providing real-world dental office experience.

Financial Considerations

• Tuition Costs: $212.74 per credit, plus additional expenses for textbooks, exams, and uniforms.
• Scholarships: Availability of scholarship opportunities and part-time jobs for financial support.

Admission Requirements

• Transfer Students: Eligible for credit transfer through Transferology.
• Prerequisite Courses: Applicants must meet specific academic prerequisites.

The program offers a solid educational experience, blending theory with extensive hands-on practice, to prepare students effectively for the dental assisting profession.

Hennepin Technical College – Dental Assistant Program

Hennepin Technical College provides a robust Dental Assistant Program designed to integrate students into the dental health team efficiently.

Program Insights

• Chairside and Office Skills: Trains students in performing various clinical functions and office tasks.
• Specialty Areas: Opportunities in general dentistry and specialties like orthodontics and oral surgery.

Accreditation and Faculty

• Authorized Training: Accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation.
• Expert Instructors: Faculty includes industry-recognized professionals who are active members of dental associations.

Employment Readiness

• Job Placement: Graduates find roles in dental offices and clinics.
• Professional Preparation: Curriculum includes lab work and clinic duties to boost employability.

Admission and Requirements

• Prerequisites: Completion of specific courses with minimum grades and standard health prerequisites.
• Flexible Awards: Options for a Diploma or AAS Degree to suit different career paths.

Hennepin Technical College’s program effectively equips students with necessary skills and knowledge, ensuring they emerge as competent professionals in dental assisting.

Choosing a Dental Assistant Program in St. Paul, MN should be an informed decision. Whether you prioritize certification, affordability, or hands-on training, the aforementioned programs offer top-notch education and career readiness.

To learn more about each program, visit the respective linked pages and explore the opportunities they offer. Each program presents unique strengths, ensuring you find the perfect fit for advancing your career in dental assisting.

Northwest Technical College – Dental Assisting Program

Northwest Technical College (NTC) offers a flexible Dental Assisting program in Bemidji, MN. The program trains students in both technical knowledge and manual skills necessary for a career in dental assisting.

Key Features

• Hands-On Experience: Through labs, internships, and service learning activities, students gain real-world experience.
• Accreditation: The program is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of the American Dental Association.
• 100% Job Placement: Graduates benefit from an excellent job placement rate due to the high demand for dental assistants.

Certification and Financial Aid

• Scholarship Opportunities: Full cost-of-attendance scholarships are available through the Delta Dental of Minnesota Foundation starting Fall 2024.
• Certification Eligibility: Graduates are prepared to sit for certification exams recognized by state and national dental boards.

Curriculum and Faculty

• Comprehensive Training: The curriculum includes clinical functions, laboratory tasks, and business office responsibilities.
• Expert Instructors: Faculty members come from diverse backgrounds in dental health care and provide mentorship based on years of experience.

For more information about the curriculum, tuition fees, and schedules, visit the Northwest Technical College Dental Assisting program.

Choosing the Right Dental Assistant Program for You

Selecting the right dental assistant program involves various considerations. This buyer’s guide highlights key factors to help you make an educated decision.

Accreditation

Accreditation matters. Ensure the program is recognized by the American Dental Association’s Commission on Dental Accreditation. Accredited programs meet industry standards, making you eligible for certification exams critical for career advancement.

Comprehensive Curriculum

Look for programs offering:

• Dental Anatomy: Understanding the structure of teeth and gums.
• Dental Radiography: Training in x-ray procedures.
• Office Management: Skills for managing dental offices efficiently.
• Infection Control: Knowledge on maintaining a sterile environment.

Hands-On Training and Internships

Practical experience is invaluable. Check if the program includes:

• Labs: Regular hands-on practice during lab sessions.
• Externships/Internships: Opportunities to work in dental offices as part of the curriculum.

Experienced Faculty

The quality of instruction is vital. Experienced faculty members, especially those active in professional associations like the American Dental Assistants Association (ADAA), provide better training and insights into current industry practices.

Financial Considerations

Consider the total cost of the program, including tuition, books, and supplies. Look for financial aid options like:

• Scholarships: Institution or foundation-based scholarships.
• Grants: Need-based financial assistance.
• Work-Study Programs: Part-time jobs offered through the institution.

Job Placement Rates

Evaluate the program’s job placement rates. High rates indicate strong industry connections and a network that can help you secure employment upon graduation.

Location and Flexibility

Convenience matters. Assess the program’s location and whether it offers flexible schedules that fit your lifestyle. Some programs may offer part-time or evening classes to accommodate working students.

Conclusion

Finding the right Dental Assistant Program in St. Paul MN can be the stepping-stone to a rewarding career in the dental field. By considering factors like accreditation, curriculum, hands-on training, faculty expertise, financial support, job placement rates, and program flexibility, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your career goals.

To take the next step in your educational journey, visit the program websites, speak with admissions advisors, and begin your path to becoming a certified and licensed dental assistant today.