Dental Assistant

Our Dental Assistant program offerings are your gateway to entry-level positions in one of the fastest-growing healthcare professions today. As healthcare services expand nationwide and the shortage of healthcare professionals persists, the demand for dental assistants is soaring. With a workforce exceeding 300,000 professionals, dental assisting ranks as the fourth fastest-growing occupation in the healthcare technician field. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that clinical dental assistants currently earn an average median salary of just over $40,000 per year, with potential for variation based on experience, education, and location across the United States.

Dental assistants are in high demand, and the outlook for employment is exceptionally promising. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment in this field is projected to grow by 11% through 2030, significantly outpacing the average for other occupations. This growth is fueled by ongoing research emphasizing the crucial connection between dental health and overall well-being, leading to an increased demand for preventative dental services.

Our comprehensive program prepares learners for entry-level positions as chair-side dental assistants. Covering a wide range of topics including the history of dentistry, dental office procedures, legal aspects, oral anatomy, dental operatory, and more, this program ensures learners are well-equipped with both administrative and clinical skills required to excel in a dental practice setting. Don't miss out on the chance to embark on a fulfilling career in dental assisting. Enroll in our program today and take the first step towards a rewarding future in healthcare.

Spring 2025 - Watertown Class
March 3, 2025 – April 28, 2025
Classes run Monday/Wednesday from 6:00pm - 9:30pm
Class Location: 1220 Coffeen Street, Watertown, New York 13601

Course Contact Hours: 60 hours
Optional Clinical Externship Hours: 40 hours

Cost: $1,499 (textbook included, voucher not included)

Federal Financial Aid is not available for non-credit programs. Traditional Army tuition assistance, GI Bill® funding, MyCAA funding, and traditional college financial aid does not apply.

The 60 hour Dental Assisting Program prepares students for entry level positions in one of the fastest growing health care positions – Dental Assisting. The purpose of this course is to familiarize the student with all areas of pre-clinical dental assisting and provide training in the professional skills required to function as an assistant in the dental practice. This course covers the following key areas and topics – Administrative Aspects include: the history of dentistry and dental assisting; introduction to the dental office; the legal aspects of dentistry; policies and guidelines. Clinical Aspects include: introduction to oral anatomy; dental operatory; dental equipment, introduction to tooth structure; primary and permanent teeth; the oral cavity and related structures; proper patient positioning; dental hand-pieces; sterilization; and other areas. In addition to entry-level administrative jobs, this course is ideal for students interested in pursuing a future formal Dental Hygienist program.

Program Objectives

After completing this program, learners will be able to:

Describe the process for gathering and assessing patient health information
Explain the foundations of and procedures used in clinical dentistry
Summarize the use of radiology in dentistry and issues associated with it
Describe the primary materials, instruments, and equipment used in dentistry including basic care and maintenance of instruments
Outline how dental assistants assist with various dental procedures and types of dentistry
Summarize the essential administrative and communication skills required of dental assistants
Explain the anatomy, physiology, and pathology concepts associated with dentistry
Explain infection control, safety, and emergency procedures and regulations in the dental environment
Explain pediatric and orthodontic procedures and tools

Certification Opportunities

After completing this program, learners will have the opportunity to take the leading national/industry-recognized certification exam essential to entry-level employment in this fast-growing field.

National Certification: This program meets the necessary requirements to take the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) Radiology Health and Safety (RHS) Examination.

National Certification: This program meets the necessary requirements to take the National Workforce Career Association (NWCA) Dental Assisting (DACC) exam.

Optional Volunteer Externship Opportunity

As part of this Dental Assisting program, you will be eligible to participate in a 40 hour clinical externship. Learners who complete this program are eligible to participate in an optional volunteer externship opportunity with a local company/agency/organization whose work aligns with this area of study in order to gain valuable hands-on experience. As learners progress through their eLearning program, an Externship Coordinator will reach out to coordinate placement.

Note: Additional documentation including health records, immunizations, drug-screening, criminal background checks, etc. may be required by the externship facility.

Disclosure: In partnership with Jefferson Community College, this program will be fully delivered by Condensed Curriculum International (CCI). CCI is headquartered at 214 Little Falls Road Fairfield, NJ 07004. There are no additional costs students are expected to incur as a result of enrolling in the educational program.

Summer 2025 - Watertown Class – In Seat Class
June 3, 2025 – July 31, 2025
Classes run Tuesday/Thursday from 6:00pm - 9:30pm
Course Contact Hours: 60 hours
Optional Clinical Externship Hours: 40 hours

Cost: $1,499 (textbook included, voucher not included)
Registration Closes: May 23, 2025

Federal Financial Aid is not available for non-credit programs. Traditional Army tuition assistance, GI Bill® funding, MyCAA funding, and traditional college financial aid does not apply.

Program Objectives

After completing this program, learners will be able to:

Describe the process for gathering and assessing patient health information
Explain the foundations of and procedures used in clinical dentistry
Summarize the use of radiology in dentistry and issues associated with it
Describe the primary materials, instruments, and equipment used in dentistry including basic care and maintenance of instruments
Outline how dental assistants assist with various dental procedures and types of dentistry
Summarize the essential administrative and communication skills required of dental assistants
Explain the anatomy, physiology, and pathology concepts associated with dentistry
Explain infection control, safety, and emergency procedures and regulations in the dental environment
Explain pediatric and orthodontic procedures and tools

Certification Opportunities

After completing this program, learners will have the opportunity to take the leading national/industry-recognized certification exam essential to entry-level employment in this fast-growing field.

National Certification: This program meets the necessary requirements to take the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) Radiology Health and Safety (RHS) Examination.

National Certification: This program meets the necessary requirements to take the National Workforce Career Association (NWCA) Dental Assisting (DACC) exam.

Optional Volunteer Externship Opportunity

Note: Additional documentation including health records, immunizations, drug-screening, criminal background checks, etc. may be required by the externship facility.

Disclosure: In partnership with Jefferson Community College, this program will be fully delivered by Condensed Curriculum International (CCI). CCI is headquartered at 214 Little Falls Road Fairfield, NJ 07004. There are no additional costs students are expected to incur as a result of enrolling in the educational program.

Dental Assistant

Online Certification Course with Optional Volunteer Externship, Exam Voucher not included

Cost: $1,499.00

Online Class
60 course hours
Textbooks included
Exam Voucher not included
6 months
Open enrollment
Self paced
Optional Clinical Externship Hours: 40 hours

Program Description

The Dental Assistant program prepares students for entry-level positions in one of the fastest growing healthcare professions. With the national increase in healthcare-related services, and the national shortage of healthcare professionals, the need for dental assistants is growing substantially. With a growing workforce over 300,000 strong, a career in dental assisting ranks as the fourth fastest growing occupation in the healthcare technician field.

The program prepares learners for entry-level positions as a chair-side dental assistant. This program covers the history of dentistry, introduction to the dental office, the legal aspects of dentistry, introduction to oral anatomy, dental operatory, introduction to tooth structure (primary and permanent teeth), the oral cavity; and other areas. The purpose of this program is to familiarize learners with all areas of administrative and clinical dental assisting focusing on the responsibilities required to function as an assistant in a dental practice.

Traditional Army tuition assistance, GI Bill® funding and traditional college financial aid does not apply.

Enroll Now

Are you eligible for funding?
Register with funding here.

Program Objectives

After completing this program, learners will be able to:

Describe the process for gathering and assessing patient health information
Explain the foundations of and procedures used in clinical dentistry
Summarize the use of radiology in dentistry and issues associated with it
Describe the primary materials, instruments, and equipment used in dentistry including basic care and maintenance of instruments
Outline how dental assistants assist with various dental procedures and types of dentistry
Summarize the essential administrative and communication skills required of dental assistants
Explain the anatomy, physiology, and pathology concepts associated with dentistry
Explain infection control, safety, and emergency procedures and regulations in the dental environment
Explain pediatric and orthodontic procedures and tools

Certification Opportunities

After completing this program, learners will have the option to take the leading national/industry-recognized certification exam essential to entry-level employment in this fast-growing field. Exam voucher expense will be the financial responsibility of the student.
Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) Radiation Health and Safety (RHS)
National Workforce Career Association (NWCA) Dental Assistant Clinical Certification (DACC)

Optional Volunteer Externship Opportunity

Learners who complete this program are eligible to participate in an optional volunteer externship opportunity with a local company/agency/organization whose work aligns with this area of study in order to gain valuable hands-on experience. As learners progress through their program, an Externship Coordinator will reach out to coordinate placement.

Note: Additional documentation including health records, immunizations, drug-screening, criminal background checks, etc. may be required by the externship facility. Any additional expenses incurred for the optional externship will be the financial responsibility of the student.

Dental Assistant

Online Clinical Dental Assistant (Exam Voucher Included with Optional Volunteer Externship)

Cost: $2,995.00

Online Class
300 course hours
Textbooks included
Exam Voucher included
Optional Clinical Externship included
12 months
Open enrollment
Self paced

Program Description

Are you ready to launch your career in an in-demand field that is fulfilling and rewarding? Becoming a dental assistant could be just the right path for you, with flexible hours and strong job growth predicted. In fact, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of dental assistants is projected to grow 11% through 2030, faster than the average for all occupations, with a median annual wage of $41,180. Dental assisting education is your first step towards providing comfort and education for patients—and the online Clinical Dental Assistant course will prepare you to become a productive and successful member of a dental team.

This comprehensive and in-demand online dental assisting course helps equip you for career success—with no previous experience necessary! You will learn about every aspect of professional dental assisting, including invaluable real-world perspectives from experienced dental assistants and essential information about anatomy and physiology, preventive dentistry, patient care and communication, radiology, pharmacology, anesthesia, assisting in specialty practices, employment strategies, and much more. You will even have the opportunity to explore the basics of maintaining computerized clinical dental records using Dentrix Practice Management software.

After completing the course, you will have the opportunity to apply for an externship, through which you will get real-life clinical assistant experience. You will also be ready to pursue certification as a dental assistant by passing the radiology, infection control, and anatomy and physiology portions of the Dental Assisting National Board examinations – NELDA or CDA. Once you have gained clinical experience and in-person hours, you will be prepared for the general assisting exam.

Traditional Army tuition assistance, GI Bill® funding and traditional college financial aid does not apply.

Enroll Now

Are you eligible for funding?
Register with funding here.

Program Objectives

After completing this program, learners will be able to:

Describe the roles for each member of the dental team and twelve dental specialties
Define the legal and ethical practice of dental assisting, including HIPAA
Explain deciduous and permanent dentition along with their functions in dental anatomy and pathology
Describe the chain of infection, transmission routes, and infection control for the dental practice, along with OSHA regulations
Summarize the role of the dental assistant in pharmacology, nutrition, and interaction with a variety of patients in normal daily activities and emergency situations
Describe the use, care, and preparation of dental instruments for patient care
Outline the necessary components of a patient record prior to dental charting
Use charting techniques to identify dental restorations and disease to create a treatment plan to prevent future disease progression
Set up equipment for anesthesia and sedation.
Describe patient clinical methods and techniques to prevent dental disease
Identify the process of exposing high-quality radiographs in both traditional and digital formats
Describe dental materials, their uses in dental treatment, and skills needed to use them efficiently
Define the dental assistant's role in pediatric dentistry, orthodontics, endodontics, prosthodontics, and cosmetic dentistry
Explain the communication and business needs to maintain a dental business office
State transferable hard and soft skills in order to complete a résumé for a dental assistant position

How you will benefit

Real-world perspectives from experienced dental assistants
Essential information about anatomy and physiology, preventive dentistry, patient care, and communication, radiology, pharmacology, anesthesia, assisting in specialty practices, employment strategies, and much more
Explore the basics of maintaining computerized clinical dental records using Dentrix Practice Management software

Certification Opportunities

Upon successful completion of this course, you will receive vouchers to sit for the Anatomy, Morphology, and Physiology (AMP), Infection Control (ICE), and Radiation Health and Safety (RHS) portions of the Dental Assisting National Board examinations. The exams meet 3 of 3 exam requirements for the NELDA certification and 2 of 3 exam requirements for the CDA. If you already have 3,500 hours of clinical experience and wish to pursue the CDA certification, you will need to acquire the General Chairside Assisting exam. The General Chairside Assisting exam is not included in this voucher package. Included vouchers are prepaid access to sit for the exams upon eligibility.

Certified Dental Assistant Certification

Optional Volunteer Externship Opportunity

Learners who complete this program are eligible to participate in an optional volunteer externship opportunity, also referred to as a clinical experience, to gain valuable hands-on experience. Students can begin researching the steps of the application process two weeks before completing courses. The clinical experience will be coordinated around your schedule and the company's schedule for you do your hands on training. You will work with an ed2go externship coordinator to setup the experience.

Disclaimer: To qualify for the clinical experience application process, students must complete the online course successfully and have account balances up to date (at a minimum). Going through the clinical experience application process does not guarantee a placement. However, affiliated partnerships increase the likelihood of finding a site that matches student needs. COVID may be affecting the capacity of availability in your area. Students can begin researching the steps of the application process two weeks before completing courses.

Note: Additional documentation including health records, immunizations, drug-screening, criminal background checks, etc. may be required by the externship facility. Any additional expenses incurred for the optional externship will be the financial responsibility of the student.

For more information, view the Clinical Experiences Support Guide

REQUIREMENTS

Hardware Requirements:

This course can be taken on either a PC, Mac, or Chromebook.

The optional Dentrix software requires a PC and cannot be used on a Chromebook or Mac.

Software Requirements:

PC: Windows 10 or later.
Mac OS X 10.11 El Capitan or later
Browser: The latest version of Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox is preferred. Microsoft Edge and Safari are also compatible.
Microsoft Word Online
Adobe Acrobat Reader
Software must be installed and fully operational before the course begins.

Other:

Email capabilities and access to a personal email account.

Optional Dentrix Software Requirements*

Operating System Windows* 7 Sp1, 8.1, 10
Memory 8 GB RAM
CPU 4 cores at 2.4 GHz
Local Drive Install Space 40 GB total, 5 GB on C: drive
Monitor 1280x1024

*Students are not required to download the software to complete the course requirements and can follow along with the video tutorials.

Instructional Material Requirements:

The instructional materials required for this course are included in enrollment. The following textbooks will be shipped to you approximately 7-10 business days after enrollment:

Dental Assisting: A Comprehensive Approach
Dental Assisting Instruments and Materials Guide
Dental Terminology
Flossing and Brushing Teaching Model
Dental Assisting Coloring Book (potential 4-6 week shipping delay)
Dentrix Software (online download) *You are not required to download the software to complete the course requirements and can follow along with the video tutorials.

Please note: You will receive a digital book if the physical book is on backorder.

Prerequisites:
There are no prerequisites to complete this course. However, candidates must have a high school diploma or equivalent to sit for national certification exams.

Disclosure: In partnership with Jefferson Community College, this program will be fully delivered by Education To Go (Ed2Go). Ed2Go is headquartered at P.O. Box 760, Temecula, CA 92593. There are no additional costs students are expected to incur as a result of enrolling in the educational program.

FAQs

What is the difference between a clinical and administrative dental assistant?

While both roles are important components of the dental staff, an administrative dental assistant focuses more on the office's administrative tasks, such as greeting patients, collecting patient information, filling out medical forms, organizing office records, and other clerical tasks. On the other hand, a clinical dental assistant helps dentists and dental hygienists with treatment procedures, sterilization and disinfection of dental tools, patient charting, taking vital signs, processing quality radiographs (x-rays), and more.

Can I work in a dental office without certification?

Upon successful completion of this course, you will have the skills needed to work in a dental office, but regulations for the practice of dental assisting vary by state. To find out about the laws in your state, consult the Dental Practice Act, available through the Board of Dentistry. Passing the Anatomy, Morphology and Physiology, Radiation Health and Safety, and Infection Control components of the National Entry Level Dental Assistant (NELDA) Certification and the Radiation Health and Safety and Infection Control components of the DANB Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) Certification may enable dental assistants to meet requirements for performing certain expanded duties in many states. Depending on state laws and regulations, a dental assistant certified by DANB can often perform a larger set of expanded duties.

In New York State, experience, certification and licensure are not required for entry level dental assistants. Many dental offices employ both CDA’s and non-CDA’s. The CDA’s are allowed to perform more functions than non-certified assistants, but on the job training is much more important.

All students are encouraged to pursue certification. Completion of this online course will help entry-level students gain employment to fulfill the required work experience. A minimum of 300 hours of work experience accrued over a two month to four-year period as a dental assistant is needed to qualify for the DANB NELDA certification and a minimum of 3,500 hours accrued over a two-to-four-year period before taking the General Chairside (not included) component of the DANB CDA certification. Certified Dental Assistant, National Entry Level Dental Assistant, CDA, NELDA, and DANB are trademarks of the Dental Assisting National Board, Inc (DANB). This course is not reviewed or endorsed by DANB.

What is a National Entry-Level Dental Assistant?

National Entry Level Dental Assistants have passed the three components (Anatomy, Morphology and Physiology, Radiation Health and Safety, and Infection Control) of the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) Certification Exam and have met the necessary work experience requirements. Students must accrue a minimum of 300 hours of work experience over a two-month to four-year period as a dental assistant to qualify for the DANB NELDA certification. While regulations vary by state, National Entry Level Dental Assistants often take on more responsibility than those who are not certified. All students are encouraged to pursue certification.

What is a Certified Dental Assistant?

Certified Dental Assistants have passed the three components (General Chairside Assisting, Radiation Health and Safety, and Infection Control) of the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) Certification Exam and have met the necessary work experience requirements. While regulations vary by state, Certified Dental Assistants often take on more responsibility than those who are not certified. All students are encouraged to pursue certification. Please note: The General Chairside Assisting component of the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) Certification Exam is not included in this course, and you must obtain a minimum of 3,500 hours accrued over a two-to-four-year period of work experience to meet eligibility requirements.

What will I do as a clinical dental assistant?

You will have a wide range of important duties as a clinical dental assistant. Your job will vary based on the dental office you work for and the state your work in. Some typical duties include preparing patients for treatment, sterilizing tools, instructing patients on proper dental hygiene, passing instruments to the dentist during procedures, keeping records of treatments, scheduling appointments, processing x-rays, and working with patients on billing and payments. In a few states, dental assistants may be able to polish teeth, apply sealants and fluoride, and give topical anesthetics.

What education do I need to become a clinical dental assistant?

In many states, there is no specific type of training required of a dental assistant other than a high school diploma. A great way to set yourself apart and set yourself up for success in a career as a dental assistant is to complete an in-person training course like Dental Assistant from CCI in partnership with JCC, or an online training course like the Clinical Dental Assistant course from ed2go. After completing your training course, it is a good idea to sit for your Certified Dental Assistant certification to further show your commitment to the profession.

What kind of hours do clinical dental assistants work?

Most dental assistants work a full-time schedule of 40 hours per week; however, some dental assistants work part-time. Traditionally, a large percentage of the hours you will work is during the day, but you may be asked to work some evenings or weekends, depending on your dental office.

Where do clinical dental assistants work?

Almost all clinical dental assistants work in dental offices under the supervision of dentists, though some may find employment with the government or in physicians' offices. Dental assistants work very closely with dental hygienists. In this position, you will need to wear surgical masks, safety goggles, gloves, and protective clothing to prevent the spread of infectious diseases. You will have the opportunity to sit, but you will also need to be on your feet for large portions of the day.

Is a clinical dental assistant the same as a dental hygienist?

No, a dental assistant and a dental hygienist are not the same. A dental assistant directly supports a dentist with small, supervised jobs performed on patients' teeth and administrative tasks in the office. A dental hygienist will work one-on-one with patients with less supervision. A dental assistant can practice after earning a dental assistant training certificate, while a dental hygienist must obtain an associate degree in dental hygiene at a minimum.

Can a dental assistant become a dental hygienist?

Yes, a dental assistant can become a dental hygienist by earning an associate or bachelor's degree in dental hygiene and passing the appropriate state-mandated licensing exams. If you are considering a future career as a dental hygienist, becoming a dental assistant is a great way to get into the industry and gain some experience while you earn your degree. Do not wait to get started in a career you love.

Will I be responsible for cleaning teeth as a dental assistant?

No. Dental assistants are not responsible for cleaning a patient's teeth. Only a licensed dentist or dental hygienist is allowed to clean teeth or remove dental calculus.