Dental Assistant Programs in Georgia
Dental care is one of the fastest growing sectors of the medical industry. Poor oral care can lead to a wide range of complex health problems, which is why many clinics have programs in place for low-income patients.
If you have been looking for a way to get into the healthcare industry and begin a career you are passionate about, this is the time to learn more about opportunities in the field of dental assisting.
Take the first step now and request information from accredited dental assistant schools in Georgia.
Dental Assistant Schools in Georgia
One of the first decisions you have to make while comparing dental hygiene schools in Georgia is how much time you want to spend in school.
With a certificate or diploma, you may be able to graduate in less than one year and start working. However, if you want to learn expanded functions and radiography, you may need to enroll in a two-year Associate’s degree program.
If you’re unsure, you may wish to contact multiple dental assistant programs in Georgia to learn more about your options and figure out which one suits you.
While working toward your degree, diploma, or certificate, you should gain basic skills in various areas of dental assisting. Program outcomes often focus on a knowledge of dental anatomy and physiology, an ability to carry out chairside procedures, and an understanding of common dental office practices.
Dental Hygienist School: Georgia Training Topics and Courses
- Preventive Dentistry
- Infection Control
- Oral Pathology
- Dental Biology
- General Chairside Procedures
- Dental Radiology
- Dental Practice Management
- Dental Specialties and Expanded Functions
Upon getting accepted to a dental college of Georgia, you can start the process of applying for financial aid. Students with financial need may qualify for federal grants and scholarships. You can also look into scholarships awarded by private organizations, such as the Liz Koch Memorial Scholarship.
Working as a Dental Assistant in Georgia
Your employment options may be determined by where you live. For example, after completing dental assistant school, Atlanta students may have a wide range of metropolitan employment opportunities. However, the need for dental assistants and other healthcare professionals is often most severe in rural areas. If you are willing to work outside of the city, you may find many open positions.
In general, demand for dental assistants is high. By 2024, O*Net anticipates a 20% jump in job openings for Georgia dental assistants (2016). The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports an average salary of $36,010 per year for dental assistants (2016).
Unless your job requires radiography or expanded functions certification, you do not need to worry about licensure as a new dental assistant. Since many dental colleges in Georgia offer training in these areas, you may qualify for certification regardless.
Are you ready to take the leap and begin your career in the world of dentistry?