Dental assisting degree overview

A Dental Assisting degree is a professional program designed to train individuals to become essential members of a dental team, known as dental assistants. This program includes a mix of classroom learning and hands-on training. Students learn about dental anatomy, how to take and develop x-rays, how to keep the dental office clean and safe from infections, and how to assist dentists during various procedures. They also get trained in managing patient records and maintaining dental instruments, preparing them to handle a variety of tasks in a dental office.

Dental Assisting degree programs come in different lengths and types, such as certificates, diplomas, or associate degrees. Certificate and diploma programs are shorter, usually taking about 9 to 12 months, while an associate degree program takes around two years. Most programs include practical training called clinical externships, where students work in actual dental offices under the supervision of experienced dental professionals. This real-world experience helps students apply what they’ve learned and get comfortable with the daily tasks of a dental assistant.

After completing the program, graduates can take certification exams like the Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) exam from the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB), which can make them more attractive to employers.

There are several types of programs available for those pursuing a career in Dental Assisting. These programs vary in length, depth, and focus, allowing students to choose the option that best fits their career goals and educational needs. Here are the main program options:

• Certificate Programs: Certificate programs in Dental Assisting are typically short, intensive courses designed to quickly equip students with the essential skills needed to begin their careers. These programs usually take about 9 to 12 months to complete and cover fundamental topics such as dental anatomy, radiography, infection control, and chairside assisting techniques. Students learn to assist dentists during procedures, manage patient records, and handle basic office tasks. Certificate programs often include both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical practice, providing a balanced approach that prepares graduates for immediate employment. For example, UCLA Extension offers a comprehensive certificate program that emphasizes practical experience in dental offices, while the New York School for Medical and Dental Assistants focuses on both clinical and administrative skills.
• Diploma Programs: Diploma programs in Dental Assisting offer a more in-depth education compared to certificate programs, typically spanning 12 to 18 months. These programs delve deeper into advanced dental assisting skills and may cover specialties like orthodontics or oral surgery assisting. Students receive extensive training in chairside techniques, dental materials, and patient care, often with additional clinical hours. Diploma programs are designed to provide a broader understanding of dental practices and prepare students for more specialized roles within the field. Institutions like Delta Technical College offer diploma programs with a strong focus on hands-on training and externships, while Concorde Career College provides a curriculum that combines lab work and clinical practice, preparing students thoroughly for certification and employment.
• Associate Degree Programs: Associate degree programs in Dental Assisting provide a comprehensive education over approximately two years, leading to an Associate of Science (AS) or Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree. These programs combine general education courses with advanced dental assisting coursework, covering a wide range of topics from dental radiography to office management. Students receive in-depth training and gain extensive clinical experience, often including rotations in various dental specialties. Associate degree programs not only prepare students for entry-level positions but also for roles with greater responsibilities and potential leadership opportunities. Schools like the Community College of Denver offer associate degrees with a focus on both clinical skills and office management, while Central Piedmont Community College provides a robust program that emphasizes hands-on experience and certification readiness.
• Expanded Functions Dental Assistant (EFDA) Programs: Expanded Functions Dental Assistant (EFDA) programs are designed for currently practicing dental assistants who seek to enhance their skills and take on more advanced roles. These programs, which can vary in length from several months to a year, provide specialized training in tasks such as placing restorations, taking impressions, and other expanded functions that go beyond basic dental assisting duties. EFDA programs often involve both theoretical coursework and practical training, equipping dental assistants with the expertise needed to perform more complex procedures. Indiana University School of Dentistry’s EFDA program focuses on hands-on training to prepare assistants for higher-level responsibilities in dental practices.
• Online and Hybrid Programs: Online and hybrid dental assisting programs cater to students who need a flexible learning schedule, combining online coursework with in-person clinical training. These programs typically follow the same timelines as certificate or associate degree programs, allowing students to complete academic portions remotely while fulfilling clinical requirements at local dental practices. This format is ideal for those balancing work, family, or other commitments. For example, Penn Foster Career School offers a fully online program with arrangements for local externships to ensure students gain the necessary hands-on experience. Dawn Career Institute provides a hybrid approach, with online learning modules complemented by practical training sessions in nearby dental facilities, making it easier for students to adapt their education to their personal schedules.
• Accredited Programs: Accredited programs in dental assisting are those that have been reviewed and approved by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA), ensuring they meet rigorous educational standards. These programs are critical as they prepare students for certification exams, such as the Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) exam, and enhance their job prospects. Accredited programs often include comprehensive curricula that cover all necessary aspects of dental assisting, from clinical skills to patient management. For instance, Arizona College of Allied Health offers a CODA-accredited program with thorough training in both theoretical and practical aspects of dental assisting. Similarly, Midlands Technical College’s accredited program emphasizes academic excellence and extensive practical skills, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for certification and employment in the dental field.

A Dental Assisting degree equips individuals with a range of skills necessary to support dentists in various clinical and administrative tasks. Some of the key skills learned in a Dental Assisting degree program include:

• Chairside Assistance: Dental assistants learn how to assist dentists during patient procedures, including preparing the treatment area, handing instruments to the dentist, and ensuring patient comfort.
• Instrument Sterilization and Maintenance: Proper sterilization and maintenance of dental instruments and equipment are essential for infection control. Dental assisting programs teach students how to sterilize instruments and maintain equipment to ensure patient safety.
• Patient Care: Dental assistants learn how to interact with patients in a professional and compassionate manner. This includes taking patient histories, explaining procedures, and providing post-operative instructions.
• Radiography: Many dental assisting programs include training in dental radiography, teaching students how to take and develop dental x-rays. Understanding radiographic techniques is crucial for diagnosing dental problems and planning treatment.
• Dental Anatomy and Terminology: Dental assistants study the anatomy of the teeth, mouth, and surrounding structures, as well as dental terminology. This knowledge is essential for understanding dental procedures and communicating effectively with dentists and other healthcare professionals.
• Dental Office Administration: Dental assisting programs often include training in office administration tasks such as scheduling appointments, managing patient records, and billing and insurance procedures.
• Infection Control and OSHA Regulations: Dental assistants learn about infection control protocols and Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations to ensure a safe and hygienic work environment.
• Emergency Preparedness: Dental assisting programs typically cover emergency procedures such as CPR and basic first aid to prepare students to respond effectively to medical emergencies in the dental office.
• Dental Materials and Equipment: Students learn about the different types of dental materials used in procedures such as fillings, crowns, and prosthetics, as well as how to properly handle and maintain dental equipment.
• Professionalism and Ethics: Dental assisting programs emphasize professionalism and ethical behavior in patient care, interpersonal interactions, and adherence to legal and regulatory standards.

A Dental Assisting degree opens up various career opportunities in the dental field. Here are some potential career paths for individuals with a Dental Assisting degree:

• Dental Assistant: The most common career path for individuals with a dental assisting degree is to work as a dental assistant. Dental assistants work alongside dentists, providing chairside assistance during procedures, sterilizing instruments, taking x-rays, and performing other tasks to support the dental team and ensure efficient patient care.
• Expanded Functions Dental Assistant (EFDA): Some states allow dental assistants to pursue additional training and certification to become Expanded Functions Dental Assistants (EFDA). EFDA certification enables dental assistants to perform advanced tasks such as placing fillings, taking impressions, and applying sealants under the direct supervision of a dentist.
• Orthodontic Assistant: Orthodontic assistants specialize in assisting orthodontists with procedures such as installing braces, taking orthodontic impressions, and providing patient education on orthodontic treatment. They may work in orthodontic offices or dental practices that offer orthodontic services.
• Oral Surgery Assistant: Oral surgery assistants work alongside oral surgeons, assisting with surgical procedures such as tooth extractions, dental implants, and jaw surgeries. They may also provide pre-operative and post-operative care to patients undergoing oral surgery.
• Dental Office Administrator: Individuals with a dental assisting degree may choose to pursue careers in dental office administration. Dental office administrators are responsible for tasks such as scheduling appointments, managing patient records, billing and insurance processing, and coordinating office logistics.
• Dental Sales Representative: Some dental assisting graduates may transition into careers as sales representatives for dental product manufacturers or suppliers. Dental sales representatives educate dental offices about new products and equipment, provide product demonstrations, and facilitate sales transactions.