Dental Assistant Programs in North Dakota
Within the healthcare industry, there are dozens of career paths that help students like you start working in one year or less. If you’re looking for an in-demand career that lets you help patients, enjoy a stable schedule, and pursue higher education in years to come, you may want to learn how to become a dental assistant in North Dakota.
With the right training, you may be able to clean patients’ teeth, prepare them for procedures, set up and clean up exam rooms, and do administrative work.
Get more information now by reaching out to North Dakota dental assistant schools.
Dental Assistant Schools in North Dakota
Dental assistant programs aim to give you the skills you need to communicate effectively with dentists and patients, respond quickly to dentist requests, use dental tools appropriately, and maintain a hygienic work area.
In a certificate or diploma program, you may be able to graduate in approximately one year. A 60-credit Associate’s degree requires about four semesters of full-time study.
Courses Offered at Dental Assistant Programs
- Dental Materials
- Dental Radiology
- Oral Anatomy
- Dental Assisting Expanded Functions
- Chairside Assisting
- Clinical Training
- Biodental Science
- Microbiology
Throughout your education, you should get different types of hands-on experience. First, you may work with plastic model mouths and mannequin mouths. This allows you to work slowly and get a feel for the anatomy of the human mouth. Later in your education, you get the chance to work with real patients under the supervision of an instructor and licensed dentist.
You may offset some of your educational expenses with scholarship programs. Colgate Professional offers over 12 different scholarships to dental students at different levels of education.
Working as a Dental Assistant in North Dakota
This is an excellent time to become a dental assistant in this state. The job outlook is very strong and is expected to remain so for several years. Between 2014 and 2024, O*Net expects job openings for dental assistants to increase 19% (2016). The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports an average salary of $42,000 per year in this state (2016).
You may wonder how you can meet N. Dakota dental assistant requirements prior to starting your career. Unlicensed dental assistants do not have to meet any certification requirements.
To expand your scope of practice, you must become a Registered Dental Assistant through the North Dakota Board of Dental Examiners. You must either pass a Certified Dental Assistant examination or complete a CODA-approved program. If it has been more than one year since meeting this requirement, you need 16 hours of continuing education to qualify for certification.
You must also pass a North Dakota dentistry exam, provide proof of CPR certification, and provide proof of completion of an infection control course. You can then register with the North Dakota State Board of Dental Examiners.
Dental assistant schools in North Dakota can get you on the path to an exciting new career.