Dental Assistant Schools in Indiana
Dental Assistant Programs in Indiana
In any medical or dental office, it takes a lot of skilled professionals to keep everything running smoothly. Dental assistants perform many different tasks to keep day-to-day operations going.
After completing dental assistant school, Indiana graduates may schedule appointments, set up for appointments, assist during procedures, and clean up the exam room after every appointment.
If you’ve ever considered a career in the dental industry, this is the time to explore your options.
Contact dental assistant school Indiana programs below to learn more.
Dental Assistant Schools in Indiana
By the time you graduate from a dental assisting program, you should be completely comfortable working chairside, in an administrative setting, or in the lab. You may develop your skills in these areas while earning a diploma, certificate, or Associate’s degree.
If you opt for a diploma or certificate, you may graduate in one or two semesters while completing up to 30 credits. However, an Associate’s degree may give you dental assisting experience and broaden your skills in the field of dental hygiene. An Associate’s degree requires approximately 60 credits, which works out to four or five semesters.
Courses Offered at Dental Schools in Indiana
- Dental Materials
- Dental Terminology
- Dental Anatomy
- Dental Emergencies and Pharmacology
- Dental Office Management
- Dental Radiography
- Coronal Polishing
In many of your courses, you should get some type of hands-on experience. In some classes, this means working in the lab, processing X-rays, and working with dental samples. In others, you gain experience while working alongside a licensed dentist.
By participating in dental cleanings, tooth extractions, and other important procedures, you can master dental terminology and learn how to anticipate the needs of your supervising dentist.
Students at dental programs in Indiana can apply for scholarships and grants to offset their expenses. The Pacific Dental Services Foundation has a dedicated scholarship fund for dental assisting students.
Working as a Dental Assistant in Indiana
By the time you graduate, you should be able to answer the question, “What does a dental assistant do?”
Your daily priorities and responsibilities depend on your place of employment and what your supervising dentist needs. You may work at the front desk and do patient intake, stay chairside and assist during cleanings, or prepare exam rooms as they are needed.
Since dental assistants can perform so many crucial functions, they are in high demand in Indiana. Between 2014 and 2024, job openings for Indiana dental assistants may increase 15% (O*Net, 2016).
Currently, the dental assistant salary Indiana average is $36,050 per year (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2016).
In most cases, you do not need an Indiana dental assistant license. You may need to apply for licensure if your dentist requires you to do X-rays or expanded functions.
This is a great time to take the next step in your career and check out a new field.