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Dental Assistant schools near me in Richmond

In the Richmond metro area, the average cost of a Licensed Dental Assistant class is $4,250. The average class length is approximately 11 weeks long.

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Richmond, VA 23219

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MCI - Richmond West (Emerywood), VA

Dental Assisting - Associate's

Hybrid·7 mi away
  • Flexible roles in lab, office, or treatment areas in dental settings
  • Training for Dental Assisting National Examination readiness

Financial aid (may be available)

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Health Tech Academy

Dental Assistant Bootcamp

Online
  • RDA Certification
  • 16-week 100% online and self-paced

$266 to start

$3,450 total

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MedCerts

Fully online Dental Assistant class

Online
  • Fully online, at your own schedule 24/7
  • In-person externship matching done after class

$242 to start

$4,000 total

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CareerStep

Dental Assistant

Online
  • Fully online, learn on your terms.
  • 12 months access with 100 hour externship.

$3,799 total

Other programs you might like within healthcare

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Advanced eClinical Training

Medical Assistant Certification Course

Online
  • Earn CCMA in just 8 weeks with self-paced, online course
  • Lifetime career support and optional clinical externship

$1,550 to start

$3,100 total

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MCI - Richmond West (Emerywood), VA

Physical Therapist Assistant - Associate's

Hybrid·7 mi away
  • Quick degree completion in 1.5 years
  • Diverse career opportunities in healthcare

Financial aid (may be available)

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Advanced eClinical Training

Pharmacy Technician Certification Course

Online
  • Complete a nationally accredited CPhT course in just 12 weeks
  • Flexible, self-paced online learning accessible 24

$1,500 to start

$3,000 total

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Peloton College

Medical Billing and Coding - Evening (740 hours)

Online
  • Can be completed in as little as 9 months or 36 weeks.
  • Eligible for CEHRS or CBCS certifications.

Financial aid (may be available)

Schools not available on Dreambound

NOT AVAILABLE ON DREAMBOUND

Anderson University, Indiana

Online Dental Assistant Classes

Online

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

NOT AVAILABLE ON DREAMBOUND

Southern Maine Community College - South Portland Campus

Online Dental Assistant Classes

Online

No cost info

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Rochester Community and Technical College - Online

Dental Assistant Diploma

Online

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

NOT AVAILABLE ON DREAMBOUND

Cincinnati State Technical & Community College Online

Online Dental Assistant Classes

Online

Cincinnati State Technical & Community College Online offers a comprehensive Dental Assistant certification program that prepares students for successful careers in healthcare. The program covers both clinical and administrative dental procedures, providing students with a solid foundation in dental anatomy, oral hygiene techniques, dental materials, radiography, and infection control protocols. Hands-on training opportunities allow students to develop practical skills and gain confidence in working with patients. The program also emphasizes dental office management and patient communication skills. Upon completion, students are eligible to take the Certified Dental Assistant exam, enhancing their employment opportunities. The online format offers flexibility and convenience, making it ideal for individuals with busy schedules. Overall, the program equips graduates with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in the dental industry and positively impact oral health in their community.

No cost info

NOT AVAILABLE ON DREAMBOUND

Chattanooga State Community College Online

Online Dental Assistant Classes

Online

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

NOT AVAILABLE ON DREAMBOUND

Northeastern Illinois University Bootcamps by Quickstart

Online Dental Assistant Classes

Online

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

NOT AVAILABLE ON DREAMBOUND

College of Western Idaho - Online

Online Dental Assistant Classes

Online

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

NOT AVAILABLE ON DREAMBOUND

U.S. Career Institute

Online Dental Assistant Classes

Online

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

NOT AVAILABLE ON DREAMBOUND

Hostos Community College

Online Dental Assistant Classes

Online

$1,620 total

NOT AVAILABLE ON DREAMBOUND

Fortis College - Richmond Campus

In person Dental Assistant Classes

In person·4 mi away

Fortis College's Richmond Campus is celebrated for its exceptional Dental Assistant certificate course. This vibrant program combines extensive practical exercises with detailed theory classes, arming learners with much-needed knowledge for dental healthcare jobs. Esteemed teachers provide custom tutoring to scholars, nurturing their career advancement. Cutting-edge dental labs within the school's innovative surroundings amplify the study journey. Graduates gain crucial abilities, thereby being well-prepared for a successful dental assistance position. Unmatched hands-on experience chances foster the real-world use of acquired abilities. Even with the course's intricacies, straightforwardly conveyed details make it approachable to hopeful dental assistants. A broad variety in sentence organization ensures sustained interest from the readers throughout. This course serves as an important stepping stone to a gratifying dental assistance healthcare career.

No cost info


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Licensed Dental Assistant classes near me in Richmond

If you're considering a career as a Dental Assistant in Richmond, Virginia, you've come to the right place. Becoming a Dental Assistant is a great way to start a rewarding healthcare career near your home. The training requirements are relatively straightforward, and you can become a Dental Assistant in Richmond in a relatively short amount of time. In this blog post, we'll explore the available Dental Assistant classes near you, as well as any online or free options, the certification process, and the job environment in the city. This blog aims to equip you with the information and resources needed to succeed as a Dental Assistant and achieve a competitive dental assistant salary in Richmond, Virginia.

Dental Assistant

What is a Dental Assistant?

A Dental Assistant is a crucial member of a dental healthcare team. They perform a variety of tasks to support the dentist, including sterilizing instruments, preparing treatment rooms, assisting the dentist during procedures, and educating patients on oral hygiene. Dental Assistants play a vital role in ensuring the smooth operation of a dental practice and the comfort of patients.

Training Requirements

To become a Dental Assistant in Richmond, you'll typically need to complete a postsecondary education program, which can take anywhere from a few months to a year, depending on the program. These programs provide the necessary training in areas such as dental terminology, infection control, dental radiography, and chairside assisting. Many programs also include hands-on experience in a clinical setting, allowing you to put your skills into practice.

Becoming a Dental Assistant in Richmond

The fastest way to become a Dental Assistant in Richmond is to enroll in a Dental Assistant program at a local vocational school or community college. These programs are designed to be completed in a relatively short amount of time, often within 9 to 12 months. By taking classes near your home in Richmond, you can start your new career path quickly and conveniently.

Dental Assistant Classes in Richmond

Here are some examples of Dental Assistant classes available in the Richmond area:

  1. J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College: This community college offers a Dental Assisting certificate program that can be completed in 9 months. The program includes both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience. Tuition is approximately $5,000, and the program has specific admission requirements, such as a high school diploma or GED.

  2. ECPI University: ECPI University's Richmond campus offers an Associate of Applied Science in Dental Assisting degree program. The program can be completed in as little as 15 months and includes courses in dental radiography, dental materials, and clinical procedures. Tuition is around $30,000 for the entire program.

  3. Centura College: Centura College's Richmond campus has a Dental Assisting diploma program that can be finished in as little as 9 months. The program covers topics such as dental anatomy, dental office management, and chairside assisting. Tuition is approximately $18,000.

  4. Virginia College: Virginia College's Richmond campus offers a Dental Assisting diploma program that can be completed in as little as 9 months. The program includes coursework in dental terminology, dental radiography, and dental materials. Tuition is around $20,000.

Each of these Dental Assistant programs in Richmond provides the necessary training and hands-on experience to prepare you for a career as a Dental Assistant. Be sure to research the specific requirements, costs, and program lengths to find the best fit for your needs and schedule.

Exploring a Career in Dental Assistant Outside Richmond

If you're dreaming of being a Dental Assistant but find yourself in a different state, fear not your dreams are still achievable. You might find your path to becoming a Dental Assistant in locations such as Birmingham, Greensboro, Minneapolis, Philadelphia, or Tulsa. And if these don't match your current location, Dreambound simplifies the journey by helping you easily search and compare Dental Assistant classes using just your zip code. With commitment and the right resources like Dreambound, entering healthcare is possible from anywhere.

Online and Free Options in Richmond

While there are no fully online Dental Assistant programs available in the Richmond area, some schools do offer hybrid or blended learning options that combine online coursework with in-person clinical training. For example, ECPI University's Dental Assisting program includes a mix of online and on-campus classes.

As for free options, there are currently no free Dental Assistant programs available in Richmond. However, some schools may offer financial aid or payment plans to help make the program more affordable. It's always a good idea to explore all available funding options, such as scholarships, grants, and student loans, to make your Dental Assistant education more accessible.

Certification Process

In Virginia, Dental Assistants are not required to be certified, but many employers prefer or require certification. The most common certification is the Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) credential, which is awarded by the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB).

To become a CDA, you'll need to pass a series of exams that cover topics such as general chairside assisting, radiation health and safety, and infection control. The certification process can take several months to complete, depending on your study habits and exam schedule.

Job Environment in Richmond

Richmond is home to a thriving healthcare industry, which means there are plenty of job opportunities for Dental Assistants in the area. Potential employers include private dental practices, dental clinics, hospitals, and even some schools and universities.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for Dental Assistants in Virginia is quite positive, with an expected growth rate of 7% between 2022 and 2032. This is faster than the national average for all occupations, indicating a strong demand for Dental Assistants in the state, including the Richmond metropolitan area.

Final Thoughts

If you're interested in becoming a Dental Assistant in Richmond, you have several options for training and education. By enrolling in a Dental Assistant program near your home, you can start your new career path in a relatively short amount of time. With the right training and certification, you can secure a rewarding job in the growing healthcare industry of Richmond, Virginia.

If you're considering a career shift or curious about different professional paths, Dreambound has written many guides to help you in making informed decisions. Here are a few:

FAQ

What is Dreambound?

Dreambound is the largest platform for students to find career & technical training programs. Whether you're looking for a healthcare, technology, or business program, our mission is to provide all the information you need to find the perfect class for you.

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).