Dental clinics all over Maine run smoothly because of the work done by dental assistants. Dental assistants take care of basic clinical work, such as x-rays and cleanings. They communicate findings to their supervising dentist and get dentists the tools they need for various procedures.

On the administrative side, they may schedule appointments, bill insurance, and follow up with patients to ensure that they are satisfied with their care.

Discover how you can become a dental assistant by contacting dental hygienist schools in Maine below.

Dental Assistant Schools in Maine

There are two levels of programs to explore in Maine. If you want to begin as a dental assistant, you can earn a certificate, diploma, or Associate’s degree. These options range from six months to two years in duration.

If you would like to become licensed as a dental hygienist, you need to earn an Associate’s degree from a dental hygiene program. There are benefits to both options, which is why it is important to contact Maine schools and figure out which one suits you.

Classes Offered in Maine Schools

• Clinical Dental Procedures
• Dental Radiology
• Dental Materials
• Dental Office Procedures
• Expanded Duties in Dental Assisting
• Dental Laboratory Experience

On top of theory courses that explore dental anatomy, tools, and techniques, you must meet clinical experience requirements in Maine. Some schools assign students to internships, while others allow students to gain experience at an on-site low-cost clinic. This may be another factor to consider while narrowing down schools.

Financial aid may be available for you if you can demonstrate financial need. The federal government awards grants that do not need to be paid back. However, you can also find out if you qualify for funds from private institutions and associations. The American Dental Association Foundation has programs for aspiring dental professionals at every level of education.

Working as a Dental Assistant in Maine

To perform basic functions, you do not need a license in Maine. If your job requires you to offer expanded functions, you can apply for your license through the Maine Board of Dentistry. Requirements vary between a Maine dental hygienist license and a dental assistant license, so it’s important to learn about the one that is appropriate for your level of education.

The demand for dental assistants may grow steadily for several years to come. O*Net anticipates an 8% increase in dental assistant jobs in Maine between 2014 and 2024 (2016).

The average salary for a dental assistant in this state is $37,790 per year (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2016). You may improve your job outlook and salary potential by getting licensed in expanded functions, attending continuing education events, and getting experience with different procedures and dental situations.

If your next step is dental assistant school, Maine is the place to be.

Use the list of dental assisting programs below to find options that catch your eye and contact them to learn more.

Maine

Beal College
Campus Locations in: Bangor, ME
Matching Programs: Medical Assistant Program
Program Types Offered: Associate Degree
Programmatic Accreditation: CAAHEP

Brightwood College
Campus Locations in: Portland, ME
Matching Programs: Medical Assistant
Program Types Offered: Associate Degree

Harris School of Business
Campus Locations in: Sanford, ME
Matching Programs: Professional Medical Assistant
Program Types Offered: Certificate

Kennebec Valley Community College
Campus Locations in: Fairfield, ME
Matching Programs: Medical Assistant Program
Program Types Offered: Associate Degree
Programmatic Accreditation: CAAHEP

Northeast Technical Institute
Campus Locations in: Bangor, ME / Scarborough, ME
Matching Programs: Clinical Medical Assistant
Program Types Offered: Certificate, Diploma

Seacoast Career Schools
Campus Locations in: Sanford, ME
Matching Programs: Professional Medical Assistant Certificate
Program Types Offered: Certificate

Southern Maine Community College
Campus Locations in: South Portland, ME
Matching Programs: Medical Assistant Program
Program Types Offered: Associate Degree
Programmatic Accreditation: CAAHEP