For persons considering a career as a dental assistant, the educational environment presented by dental assisting schools has never been more promising. The Commission of Dental Accreditation (CODA) has more than 281 dental assisting schools already approved and located throughout the U.S.

Attending dental assisting schools has many advantages in terms of knowledge, hands-on experience and demystifying the role of the dental assistant. The best dental assistants can look forward to long-term employment and excellent wages commensurate with their education and experience.

As students soon learn at dental assisting schools, their role is about their skills as an assistant and their people skills. Dental patients want to feel comfortable and get beyond their nerves. Graduates from dental assisting schools can expect to master both of those traits as well as more intricate skills.

What dental assisting schools teach

Dental assisting schools conform to standards set by Commission of Dental Accreditation (CODA) and offer courses consistent with the Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) credentialing system. This certification is the key to higher income and more responsibilities. Actual certification and licensing practices are managed by the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB).

Applicants for certification may take DANB examinations after they have satisfactorily completed dental assisting schools. Most licensing is handled by states. 37 states accept DANB certification but to be licensed the applicant must have proof of completion from any recognized dental assisting schools.

Dental assisting schools also prepare the prospective assistant for many of the more intricate skills that the dentist performs. All dental assisting schools require a high school education for entry. Some vocational schools offer 4 to 6 month courses for entry-level dental assistants. These courses are not approved by CODA, but may meet requirements in certain states.

Most accredited dental assisting schools offer either a one-year intense course or a two-year curriculum. These schools emphasize biology, computer skills and office administration as well as comprehensive training with instruments and certain procedures. These dental assisting schools also provide clinical, hands-on training, which is invaluable.

The role of dental assisting schools in a booming market

In 2009, there were more than 293,000 dental assistants. The U.S. Department of Labor projects that by 2018, there will be a need for more than 400,000 dental assistants. Dental assisting schools are challenged to meet the demand.

Additionally, the role of today’s dental assistant has expanded into such areas as laboratory duties, making casts for teeth and impressions for the mouth. These skills and many others can be learned at dental assisting schools.

The health industry and the dental profession have come through the recession in good order. Throughout the health care industry, employment has risen consistently. The wages and benefits earned by dental assistants are reflective of the training provided by dental assisting schools.

Dental assisting schools and you

For graduates of dental assisting schools, the opportunities for jobs are good. Because CODA approved dental assisting schools are recognized in 37 states, dental assistant with such training can often select the place they will practice.

Dental practices and their patients like consistency. These patients are usually nervous and want to be treated by a familiar face. However, there is no substitute for training and education. To launch a new and exciting career, do it the right way. Attend any of the several accredited dental assisting schools and enjoy a stable, lucrative career.

To find dental assisting schools near you, use the search box on this page. By entering your zip code, you can get a list of top schools near you.