Certified Dental Assistants work under the supervision of dentists preparing equipment, assisting during procedures, taking health histories and instructing patients on postoperative care. Some dental offices offer on-the-job training. A high school diploma is required. Each state is different in licensing and allowable functions and about 30 states now require certification.
Typical costs:
Certificate or diploma programs may be accomplished through community colleges in either 11 months as a full-time student or 22 months studying part time. Cost for the 42-unit program varies by state from $850 to $7,560, depending on the average unit cost.
Students in the one-year program generally study from August through August then take the board in November. The Certified Dental Assistant exam costs about $125 for registration and both the written and practical exams.
Lab fees cost around $560.
Books and supplies average $1,600.
Discounts:
The American Dental Assistants Association offers an annual scholarship.
Shopping for dental assistant school:
The American Dental Association maintains a list of accredited dental assisting programs by state.
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