Dental Assistant schools near me in Bakersfield
In the Bakersfield metro area, the average cost of a Licensed Dental Assistant class is $4,215 and the average class length is approximately 10 weeks long.
Healthcare classes near
Bakersfield, CA 93301Online classes
Financial aid
San Joaquin Valley College - Bakersfield Campus
Dental Assisting
- Earn a Dental Assisting certificate in just 11 months
- Hands-on training for real-world dental office skills
MedCerts
Fully online Dental Assistant class
- Fully online, at your own schedule 24/7
- In-person externship matching done after class
Schools not available on Dreambound
UEI College - Bakersfield
Dental Assistant
- Earn your diploma in as few as 10 months
- Prepare for careers as Certified Dental Assistant or Oral Surgery Assistant
Financial aid (may be available)
UEI College - West Covina
Dental Assistant
- Earn your diploma in as few as 10 months
- Prepare for careers as Certified Dental Assistant or Oral Surgery Assistant
Financial aid (may be available)
Hostos Community College
Online Dental Assistant Classes
$1,620 total
College of Western Idaho - Online
Online Dental Assistant Classes
As the primary point of contact for patients, dental assistants play a critical role in the day-to-day operations of the office. They manage patient records, schedule appointments, take X-rays and imprints, and even help the dentist during procedures. A good dental assistant provides professional and courteous customer care that makes every patient feel comfortable and informed.
No cost info
Southern Maine Community College - South Portland Campus
Online Dental Assistant Classes
No cost info
Anderson University, Indiana
Online Dental Assistant Classes
Anderson University in Indiana provides a comprehensive Dental Assistant Certification program that prepares individuals for a successful career in healthcare. The program meets the growing demand for qualified dental professionals and covers topics such as dental anatomy, radiography, infection control, and chairside assisting techniques. Hands-on training in a clinical setting allows students to gain real-world experience, while the program also emphasizes the development of communication and interpersonal skills. With small class sizes and dedicated faculty, Anderson University offers a supportive learning environment. Graduates are equipped with the skills and knowledge needed for employment in various dental settings. Overall, the program at Anderson University offers a well-rounded education and prepares students for a rewarding career in dental assisting.
$4,000 total
Rochester Community and Technical College - Online
Dental Assistant Diploma
Admission into the Dental Assistant program is based on a rolling admissions system of accepting applicants who meet eligibility criteria. Applicants must have a 2.5 cumulative GPA for the part-time 2yr option and a 2.75 cumulative GPA for the accelerated 1yr program option. All applicants must meet college level reading/writing requirements and have taken Biology with a ‘C’ or higher within the past five years, calculated from the Fall Semester in which you plan entry into the Dental Assistant Program. Click Admission for more information about admissions requirements. Admissions window opens in January for fall start.
No cost info
Chattanooga State Community College Online
Online Dental Assistant Classes
The 3-semester certificate program provides a foundation in the health sciences along with extensive training in the technology necessary to perform those tasks delegated to dental assistants by the State Dental Practice Act. Clinical training experiences working with dentists and patients are provided in private offices of practicing dentist, at community health centers, and at the Dental Center on the Chattanooga State campus on Amnicola Highway. Students who successfully complete this program are eligible for Registration as a dental assistant in Tennessee with state certifications in Dental Radiology, Sealant Application, Monitoring Nitrous Oxide, and Coronal Polishing. Graduates are also eligible to sit for the Dental Assisting National Board Examination (DANB) Examination to become a Certified Dental Assistant (CDA).
The Dental Assisting program is a 1-year certificate program with an option to earn an Associate of Applied Science, which is designed to provide a career ladder for individuals who have graduated from or who are currently enrolled in an American Dental Association accredited dental assisting certificate program and seek to obtain an Associate of Applied Science degree. The program is designed to broaden the student’s education through the addition of a broad general education core and additional electives. There are two pathways by which students may meet the requirements of this degree. The traditional pathway, in which the student completes the 1-year certificate program and continues to take the additional courses required to complete the degree requirements, and the Advances placement pathway, in which the student is awarded 36 semester hours of advanced placement for holding current state or national certification or registration as a result of graduation from a program that is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation.
No cost info
Northeastern Illinois University Bootcamps by Quickstart
Online Dental Assistant Classes
Our online Dental Assistant Training combines coursework and hands-on experience to help you prepare to take the next steps toward a new career with confidence. You’ll learn essential knowledge and clinical skills that are aligned to industry certification exams, like the NELDA component exams and can also help you prepare to sit for the AMT Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) certification. Then you’ll participate in a 100-hour externship to practice what you learned in real-world situations!
No cost info
U.S. Career Institute
Online Dental Assistant Classes
U.S. Career Institute's Online Dental Assisting Program provides graduates with theoretical instruction and practical skills that prepare students to obtain entry-level dental assistant positions in a dentist’s office. Work alongside dentists, orthodontists, and other oral healthcare specialists. You will receive complete step-by-step illustrated lessons and virtual labs that prepare you for this rewarding, in-demand dental assistant career.
$1,239 total
Licensed Dental Assistant classes near me in Bakersfield
Bakersfield, nestled in the vibrant heart of California, presents abundant opportunities for those aspiring to become Dental Assistants and secure a good dental assistant salary. Whether you're a local resident or contemplating a move, the chances to secure a rewarding Dental Assistant job in Bakersfield are numerous. This guide will delve into the training requirements, nearby classes, and the job environment for Dental Assistants in this thriving community, offering insights into embarking on a fulfilling career path in the healthcare sector.
What is a Dental Assistant?
A Dental Assistant is a crucial member of the dental healthcare team, responsible for supporting dentists in various clinical and administrative tasks. From sterilizing instruments and preparing treatment rooms to assisting during procedures and handling patient records, Dental Assistants play a vital role in ensuring the smooth and efficient operation of a dental practice.
Training Requirements in Bakersfield
To become a Dental Assistant in Bakersfield, you'll need to complete a state-approved training program. These programs typically range from one to two years in length and cover a wide range of topics, including dental terminology, anatomy, radiography, and patient care. The curriculum also includes hands-on training in a clinical setting, allowing students to develop the practical skills necessary for the job.
Becoming a Dental Assistant in Bakersfield
The fastest path to becoming a Dental Assistant in Bakersfield is through a vocational or technical school program. These programs are designed to provide comprehensive training in a relatively short amount of time, often as little as one year. By completing a Dental Assistant program, you can quickly gain the knowledge and skills needed to start your career in the field.
Dental Assistant Classes in Bakersfield
Bakersfield is home to several institutions that offer Dental Assistant training programs. Here are a few examples:
Bakersfield College
Bakersfield College offers a Dental Assisting Certificate of Achievement program, which can be completed in one year. The program covers topics such as dental terminology, radiography, and chairside assisting, and includes a clinical externship component.
Carrington College
Carrington College's Bakersfield campus provides a Dental Assisting program that can be completed in as little as 9 months. The curriculum includes coursework in dental materials, dental procedures, and patient care, as well as hands-on training in a dental clinic.
Taft College
Taft College, located just a short drive from Bakersfield, offers a Dental Assisting program that can be completed in two semesters. The program covers a range of topics, including dental anatomy, dental radiology, and dental office procedures.
Each of these programs has its own specific requirements, length, and costs, so it's important to research and compare the options to find the best fit for your needs and goals.
Exploring a Career in Dental Assistant Outside Bakersfield
If you've been inspired to follow the path of a Dental Assistant but geography isn't on your side, worry not. Your aspiration to become a Dental Assistant is within reach in Allentown, Columbus, Ogden, San Bernardino/Riverside, Tampa. For those who don't find these options feasible, Dreambound enables you to effortlessly find and evaluate Dental Assistant classes by simply searching with a zip code. Armed with determination and Dreambound, anyone, anywhere, can achieve a career in healthcare.
Online and Free Options in Bakersfield
While in-person Dental Assistant programs are the most common option in Bakersfield, there are also some online and free opportunities available.
Online programs can provide a flexible learning experience for those who need to balance work, family, and education. Several community colleges and vocational schools in the Bakersfield area offer online or hybrid Dental Assistant programs, allowing students to complete a portion of their coursework remotely.
Additionally, some organizations in Bakersfield, such as local workforce development centers, may offer free or low-cost Dental Assistant training programs. These programs are often designed to help individuals from underserved communities gain the skills and certifications needed to secure employment in the field.
The Certification Process
In California, Dental Assistants are required to obtain a Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) license to practice. This involves passing a written and practical exam administered by the Dental Board of California. Completing a state-approved Dental Assistant program, such as the ones offered in Bakersfield, will help prepare you for the certification process.
Job Environment in Bakersfield
Bakersfield's thriving healthcare industry provides ample opportunities for Dental Assistants. From private dental practices to community health clinics, Dental Assistants can find employment in a variety of settings. Some of the potential employers for Dental Assistants in Bakersfield include:
- Smile Dental Group
- Kern Dental Specialists
- Bakersfield Dentistry
- Adventist Health Bakersfield
- Kern Medical Center
The job outlook for Dental Assistants in Bakersfield is positive, with the demand for these professionals expected to continue growing in the coming years. Dental Assistants in Bakersfield can expect a supportive work environment, competitive salaries, and the opportunity to be part of a dynamic and essential healthcare team.
Final Thoughts
Bakersfield offers a wealth of opportunities for those interested in becoming a Dental Assistant. With multiple training programs, both in-person and online, as well as potential for free or low-cost options, the path to a career as a Dental Assistant is accessible to a wide range of individuals. By completing a state-approved program and obtaining the necessary certification, you can embark on a rewarding career in the thriving healthcare industry of Bakersfield.
Dreambound offers a window into various career paths, so if you're considering a shift in your career, browse through these articles:
FAQ
What is Dreambound?
Dreambound's platform has the largest number of options for students to find career & technical education. While we can't guarantee any career outcomes, our mission is to provide you with the information you need to find a program that helps you start your new career journey.
What programs do you offer?
Dreambound has over 70 programs across healthcare, technology, business, and industrial trades. This includes programs such as Medical Billing, Cybersecurity, and welding.
Do you offer financial aid?
Some of our schools offer financial aid for those who qualify. Many others offer payment plans, where you can pay the cost of class over time.
Is it possible to do online classes?
Yes, Dreambound offers many online programs. On Dreambound's search, you can filter by online, in-person, and hybrid (part online, part in-person).