California Dental Assistant Schools
Dental Assistant Programs in California
While dentists are an important part of medical care in California, dental assistants really keep practitioners on track and ensure that they can make the most of their time.
By taking care of basic procedures, getting patient history, and setting up supplies, dental assistants minimize the amount of time that dentists spend on routine work and let them spend their time caring for patients.
If you’re ready to start an exciting career in the field of dental assisting, contact California dental assistant training programs below.
Dental Assistant Schools in California
When it comes to dental hygiene programs, California students have tons of options. It all depends on how much prior education you have and how much time you would like to spend in school.
One popular short-term option is a Certificate of Completion, which focuses on the core skills of dental assisting and holds off on general education courses. Many CCL programs can be completed in less than one year.
For a more comprehensive education, look into Associate’s degree options at dental assistant schools in California. This degree can often be finished in two years, giving assistants the chance to advance to a Bachelor’s degree in the future. Dental assistant training cost options vary between schools. Often, city and county technical schools have low tuition expenses for in-state students.
You must complete a set curriculum to qualify for graduation. These courses should give you the hands-on skills and theory you need to thrive as a dental assistant.
Courses at California Dental Assistant Schools
- Infection Control and Oral Health
- Professional Standards
- Coronal Polishing
- Oral Anatomy
- Chairside Procedures
- Dental Radiology
- Dental Materials and Laboratory Procedures
- Biodental Sciences
- Clinical Rotations
- Practice Management
To offset your training expenses, you may look into federal grants and local scholarship programs. Through the American Dental Assistants Association, you may apply for grants like the Hu-Friedy Merit Scholar Award and the Juliette A. Southard Scholarship.
Working as a Dental Assistant in California
California dental assistant requirements are similar to what you’ll find in other states. For most dental assisting roles, you do not need certification or licensure. However, you may need specialized coursework to perform expanded dental assistant duties.
This field is growing rapidly. This can really help you out when you start your job search. Between 2014 and 2024, O*Net expects job openings for California dental assistants to increase 16% (2016). On average, dental assistants in this state earn $38,730 per year (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2016).
You may work in community dental clinics or privately owned dental clinics upon graduation. Although some clinics may have extended evening and weekend hours, many are open on weekdays. This may help you enjoy a reliable, steady schedule.
Are you ready to start working in one of the fastest growing industries in the United States?