Alaska Dental Assistant Schools
Dental Assistant Programs in Alaska
Making dental care widely available is one way to improve healthcare outcomes in Alaska and create lifelong healthy habits. When you learn how to become a dental assistant in Alaska, you can work with patients while assisting dentists and completing basic patient care procedures.
This short-term training program can help you get started on a new career path in just a few semesters.
If you’re ready to learn more and get started, request information from Alaska dental assistant training programs and schools below!
Dental Assistant Schools in Alaska
At Alaska technical schools and community colleges, you can choose from two main dental assisting programs. Some dental hygienist schools in Alaska offer a Certificate of Completion. This option can typically be finished in two to three semesters with 30 to 40 credits.
The other option is an Associate’s degree. Dental assistant schools in Alaska with this option require students to earn no fewer than 60 credits.
These options are similar in many ways. Clinical work is of the utmost importance, with many schools having on-site low-cost clinics for students to work at. Plan on getting several hundred hours of clinical work by the time you graduate. The more feedback you get, the more you can improve your techniques and prepare for your new career.
Alaska dental assistant requirements include the courses and topics below.
Dental Assistant Course Options
- Dental Sciences for Dental Assistants
- Infection Control in Dentistry
- Essentials of Dentistry
- Dental Radiography
- Dental Office Administration
- Chairside Techniques
- Materials in Dentistry
- Dental Specialties
Many schools offer scholarship to dental assisting students. You can also look into scholarships offered by the Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium, as this group funds scholarships for Associate’s degree students.
If you’re interested in attending dental assistant programs online, you may be able to finish most of your theory coursework online. However, you may still have to meet clinical requirements at a local dental office.
Working as a Dental Assistant in Alaska
Once you complete your training at a local or online school, you can start exploring your career options. You may enjoy consistent weekday work hours, since most dental clinics maintain typical business hours. With on-the-job training and support, you can build your confidence and improve your client communication skills.
Healthcare is growing in Alaska, which is why the need for dental assistants is increasing. Between 2014 and 2024, job openings for dental assistants may swell 21% throughout the state (O*Net, 2016).
Currently, the average dental assistant salary in Alaska is $44,560 per year (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2016). With experience and extra credentials, you may be able to significantly impact your income potential.
Are you ready to jump into a dental assisting career that lets you work in the office, chairside, or in administration?