Find Dental Assistant Training Programs in California
If you're considering a career as a dental assistant in California, the first step is choosing a training program that prepares you for certification and real-world experience. This page features accredited dental assistant schools in and near California that offer the clinical training, classroom instruction, and exam preparation needed to succeed in this growing healthcare field.
Explore local programs, compare course offerings, and take the next step toward becoming a dental assistant in California.
Specialized training: Explore various dental specialties like Endodontics, Oral Surgery, and Orthodontics.
Career-focused: Prepares graduates for roles like Dental Assistant, Oral Surgery Assistant, and Orthodontic Assistant.
Patient Skills: Students must conduct two bitewing and two full mouth x-rays utilizing manikins, and perform four clinical patient skill assessment evaluations.
Coronal Polishing: Clinical patients get work done on manikins and three patients.
Bakersfield, CA Dental Assistant Training Program
Address: 3737 Rosedale Highway, Bakersfield, California 93308-0000
San Joaquin Valley College-Temecula Dental Assistant Training Program Highlights
Hands-on training in a simulated dental office environment, providing practical experience with dental instruments, equipment, and procedures.
Comprehensive curriculum covering dental terminology, chairside assisting techniques, sterilization and infection control, dental radiology, and patient communication.
Preparation for industry-recognized certifications such as the Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) exam (specific requirements vary by state and may require additional experience; inquire with SJVC for details on California RDA requirements).
Clinical externship opportunities in local dental offices, allowing students to apply their skills in real-world settings and gain valuable experience working with patients and dental professionals.
Focus on patient care and professionalism, emphasizing ethical conduct, communication skills, and sensitivity to patient needs.
Instruction from experienced dental professionals with real-world knowledge and practical expertise in the field.
Opportunity to develop essential skills for assisting dentists during a variety of dental procedures, including fillings, extractions, root canals, and cosmetic dentistry.
Temecula, CA Dental Assistant Training Program
Address: 27270 Madison Avenue, Temecula, California 92590-5678
Reedley College Dental Assisting Training Program Highlights
Comprehensive Curriculum: The program likely covers a wide range of topics including dental sciences, chairside assisting techniques, radiology, infection control, dental materials, and office management. Expect coursework in anatomy, physiology, and dental terminology.
Hands-on Clinical Experience: Students almost certainly gain practical experience through clinical rotations in local dental offices or clinics. This allows them to apply their knowledge in a real-world setting and develop essential skills working with patients and dental professionals.
State-of-the-Art Facilities: The program probably utilizes well-equipped dental labs and classrooms to simulate a modern dental office environment, allowing students to practice procedures on mannequins and specialized equipment.
Radiology Certification: The program likely includes training and certification in dental radiography (X-rays), a crucial skill for dental assistants. Students may become certified to take X-rays in California after completing the required coursework and passing the necessary examinations.
Preparation for RDA Exam: The program is designed to prepare students to take the Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) exam in California. The curriculum is aligned with the RDA exam content specifications, and students may receive exam preparation assistance.
Career Opportunities: Graduates can pursue careers as dental assistants in general dentistry practices, specialty dental offices (e.g., orthodontics, periodontics, oral surgery), public health clinics, and dental insurance companies.
Emphasis on Patient Care: The program likely emphasizes the importance of patient communication, empathy, and providing a comfortable and positive experience for dental patients.
Reedley, CA Dental Assistant Training Program
Address: 995 N Reed Ave, Reedley, California 93654
San Joaquin Valley College-Bakersfield Dental Assistant Training Program Highlights
Hands-on training in a simulated dental office environment to prepare students for real-world scenarios.
Curriculum covers essential dental assisting skills, including chairside assisting, instrument sterilization, dental radiography, infection control, and office management.
Preparation for and opportunity to take the Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) exam, a credential often preferred or required by employers in California.
Clinical externships providing students with practical experience in actual dental offices, allowing them to apply their skills and network with professionals.
Emphasis on understanding dental terminology, anatomy, and physiology.
Focus on patient communication and ethics, ensuring graduates are prepared to provide excellent patient care.
Potential coursework on dental software and record-keeping, reflecting the increasing use of technology in dental practices.
Bakersfield, CA Dental Assistant Training Program
Address: 201 New Stine Road, Bakersfield, California 93309-2659
San Joaquin Valley College-Fresno Dental Assisting Training Program Highlights
Hands-on training prepares students for real-world dental assisting careers.
Certificate of completion can be earned in as few as 11 months.
Multiple campus locations across California: Bakersfield, Fresno, Temecula, Victor Valley (Hesperia), and Visalia.
The program is approved by the Dental Board of California.
Prepares students for entry-level roles performing both patient care and administrative duties.
Graduates earn certifications in Dental Radiation Safety, CPR, Infection Control and Dental Law and Ethics.
Eligible to take the Dental Board of California Examination for State Licensure as a Registered Dental Assistant upon completion of coronal polish and pit and fissure sealants components.
Fresno, CA Dental Assistant Training Program
Address: 295 East Sierra Avenue, Fresno, California 93710-3616
San Joaquin Valley College-Hesperia Dental Assisting Training Program Highlights
Hands-on training providing real-world skills.
Certificate of completion earned in as few as 11 months.
Program approved by the Dental Board of California.
Multiple campus locations available, including Hesperia.
Prepares graduates for entry-level roles in dental offices.
Students are eligible to take the Dental Board of California Examination for State Licensure as a Registered Dental Assistant upon completion of coronal polish and pit and fissure sealants.
Hesperia, CA Dental Assistant Training Program
Address: 9331 Mariposa Road, Hesperia, California 92344-8086
Oxnard College Dental Assistant Training Program Highlights
Comprehensive Curriculum: Covers a wide range of dental assisting skills, including chairside assisting, dental radiography, infection control, and dental materials.
State-of-the-Art Facilities: Students train in a modern dental clinic equipped with current dental technology, providing a realistic learning environment.
Radiography Certification: The program likely includes coursework and training required to obtain the California Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) certification, with specific emphasis on x-ray operation and safety.
Clinical Externship: Provides hands-on experience in real dental offices, allowing students to apply their skills and gain valuable work experience prior to graduation.
Career Opportunities: Graduates are prepared for entry-level positions as dental assistants in general dentistry, specialty practices (such as orthodontics, periodontics, or oral surgery), and public health clinics.
RDA Exam Preparation: The curriculum is designed to thoroughly prepare students to take and pass the Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) exam, covering all relevant subject areas.
Infection Control Emphasis: Strong emphasis on infection control protocols and OSHA regulations, ensuring student competence in maintaining a safe and sterile environment.
Oxnard, CA Dental Assistant Training Program
Address: 4000 S Rose Ave, Oxnard, California 93033-6699
North-West College-Glendale Dental Assistant Training Program Highlights
Hands-on training in a simulated dental office environment, mimicking real-world clinical settings.
Comprehensive curriculum covering dental terminology, chairside assisting, radiography techniques (including X-ray safety and digital imaging), infection control protocols (including sterilization and OSHA guidelines), and dental office management.
Preparation for and opportunity to potentially earn certifications, such as Radiation Health and Safety Certification and potentially Registered Dental Assistant (RDA), depending on state requirements. Specific certification opportunities will vary based on the school's curriculum and local requirements.
Externship component providing valuable real-world experience in a dental office, allowing students to apply their skills and knowledge under the supervision of dental professionals. This provides valuable practical skills and professional connections.
Focus on developing essential skills such as patient communication, record keeping, and assisting with various dental procedures, including restorative, surgical, and orthodontic treatments.
Emphasis on current dental technologies and equipment, ensuring graduates are prepared to use the tools commonly found in modern dental practices.
Experienced instructors with backgrounds in the dental field, providing students with practical insights and guidance.
Glendale, CA Dental Assistant Training Program
Address: 221 North Brand, Glendale, California 91203
Gurnick Academy of Medical Arts Dental Assistant Training Program Highlights
Comprehensive Curriculum: Covers a wide range of dental assisting topics, including dental terminology, chairside assisting, radiography, infection control, dental materials, and office management.
Hands-on Training: Provides significant hands-on experience in simulated dental labs, allowing students to practice skills such as taking impressions, pouring models, and sterilizing instruments.
Clinical Externship: Includes a clinical externship component, providing real-world experience working alongside dental professionals in a dental office setting. This allows students to apply their classroom knowledge and develop practical skills.
Preparation for Certification: Designed to prepare graduates for relevant certifications, potentially including the Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) examination and/or the National Entry Level Dental Assistant (NELDA) exam, depending on state regulations and Gurnick's curriculum.
State-of-the-Art Facilities: Likely utilizes modern dental equipment and technology in its labs and classrooms to simulate a real dental office environment.
Career-Focused Education: Emphasizes the development of skills and knowledge necessary to succeed as a dental assistant, focusing on employability and career advancement.
Experienced Instructors: Faculty likely consists of experienced dental professionals, including dentists and registered dental assistants, who provide students with valuable insights and guidance.
San Jose, CA Dental Assistant Training Program
Address: 1641 N. First Street, San Jose, California 95112
Imperial Valley College Dental Assistant Training Program Highlights
Comprehensive Curriculum: The program likely covers a wide range of topics including dental anatomy, radiology, sterilization techniques, chairside assisting, dental materials, and office management.
Hands-on Clinical Experience: Students probably gain practical experience through supervised clinical rotations in real dental office settings, providing valuable on-the-job training. This allows them to apply classroom knowledge in a practical setting.
State-of-the-Art Facilities: Imperial Valley College likely has a modern dental assisting laboratory equipped with dental chairs, X-ray machines, and other equipment necessary for practical training.
Radiology Certification Preparation: The program curriculum probably prepares students to take the necessary exams for obtaining radiology certification, which is often a requirement for dental assistants in California.
CPR/First Aid Certification: Students likely receive training and certification in CPR and First Aid, essential skills for all healthcare professionals.
Potential Career Pathways: Graduates can pursue entry-level positions as dental assistants in general dentistry practices, specialist offices (e.g., orthodontics, periodontics), or public health clinics.
Job Placement Assistance: The college likely offers career counseling and job placement assistance to help graduates find employment opportunities after completing the program.
Imperial, CA Dental Assistant Training Program
Address: 380 E. Aten Road, Imperial, California 92251-0158
Diablo Valley College Dental Assistant Training Program Highlights
Comprehensive Curriculum: The Dental Assistant program likely provides a comprehensive curriculum covering dental sciences, chairside assisting, radiology, sterilization techniques, infection control, dental materials, and office management.
Hands-on Clinical Experience: Students will likely gain valuable hands-on experience through simulated lab settings and clinical rotations in various dental offices, allowing them to work directly with patients and dental professionals.
State-of-the-Art Facilities: Diablo Valley College likely provides access to well-equipped dental labs with modern dental equipment and technology to simulate real-world dental office environments.
Radiology Certification: The program probably includes coursework and training necessary to obtain a California Radiology Certificate, enabling graduates to take dental X-rays legally.
Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) Eligibility: The curriculum is designed to meet the educational requirements for eligibility to take the Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) examination in California, a significant step in advancing career opportunities.
Career Placement Assistance: Diablo Valley College may offer career placement assistance services, including resume writing workshops, mock interviews, and job postings, to help graduates find employment opportunities.
Experienced Faculty: The program is likely taught by experienced dental professionals with extensive knowledge and practical experience in the field, providing students with valuable insights and mentorship.
Pleasant Hill, CA Dental Assistant Training Program
Address: 321 Golf Club Rd, Pleasant Hill, California 94523
College of Marin Dental Assisting Training Program Highlights
Comprehensive Curriculum: The Dental Assisting program likely covers a wide range of topics, including dental anatomy, radiology, chairside assisting techniques, infection control, and dental materials. Expect instruction in both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.
Hands-on Clinical Experience: A significant portion of the program probably involves hands-on clinical training in a dental clinic or simulated dental office setting. This provides real-world experience working with patients and dental professionals.
Radiology Certification Preparation: The program likely prepares students to take the Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) exam, specifically the radiology portion, potentially leading to certification in dental radiography.
Career Opportunities: Graduates of the program can pursue entry-level positions as dental assistants in general dentistry practices, specialist offices (e.g., orthodontics, periodontics), dental clinics, and public health settings.
Infection Control Emphasis: Due to the nature of dental work, a strong emphasis on infection control protocols and sterilization techniques is highly probable within the curriculum.
Modern Dental Technology: The program may incorporate training on the use of modern dental technologies, such as digital radiography, electronic health records, and intraoral cameras.
Professional Development: The program may incorporate professional development, including resume building, interview skills, and ethical considerations for dental assistants.
Kentfield, CA Dental Assistant Training Program
Address: 835 College Ave, Kentfield, California 94904-2590
College of the Redwoods Dental Assisting Training Program Highlights
Fast-track program: Complete in just two semesters.
Prepares students for both the Dental Board of California (RDA) and the Dental Assisting National Board (CDA) exams.
Hands-on experience: Provide patient care at the Dental Health Center on campus with licensed dentists starting in October.
Internship opportunities: Gain real-world experience in private practices, specialty practices, or federal/state clinics.
Comprehensive training: Covers both front desk and back office duties, including general dentistry and various specialties (periodontics, orthodontics, etc.).
Nationally accredited and state-approved: The only such community college program north of Santa Rosa and Sacramento.
High Pass Rates: Currently, College of the Redwoods has a 90% pass rate for the exams administered through the Dental Board of California and 100% pass rate for exams administered through the Dental Assisting National Board.
Loleta, CA Dental Assistant Training Program
Address: 7351 Tompkins Hill Rd, Eureka, California 95501-9300
Concorde Career College-Garden Grove Dental Assistant Training Program Highlights
Complete your Dental Assistant diploma in as few as 10 months.
Gain valuable hands-on experience through a 160-hour externship.
Learn foundational concepts of dentistry, including anatomy, physiology, and various dental specialties.
Curriculum covers both clinical skills (assisting during procedures, taking impressions) and front office operations.
The program is approved by the California Dental Board, preparing you for the written and practical California State Board Examination to become a Registered Dental Assistant after graduation.
Prepare to assist chairside, take x-rays, manage patient appointments and records, and maintain a sterile environment.
Garden Grove, CA Dental Assistant Training Program
Address: 12951 Euclid Street, Suite 101, Garden Grove, California 92840-9201
Chaffey College Dental Assisting Training Program Highlights
Prepares students for a successful career as competent and skilled dental assisting professionals in just two semesters.
Offers both a Certificate in Dental Assisting and an Associate in Arts degree option.
Accredited by the Dental Board of California and the Commission of Dental Accreditation (CODA).
Provides internship opportunities to develop essential practical skills.
Eligible to take the State and National board examinations upon completion.
Offers a Dental Board of California-approved Infection Control Course to fulfill mandatory requirements.
Designed to prepare students for the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) examination to become Certified Dental Assistants (CDA) and the RDA Combined Exam to earn the RDA license.
Rancho Cucamonga, CA Dental Assistant Training Program
Address: 5885 Haven Ave, Rancho Cucamonga, California 91737-3002
Hands-on Training: Emphasis on practical skills development through laboratory simulations and real-world clinical experiences.
State-of-the-Art Facilities: Access to well-equipped dental labs with modern dental equipment and instruments.
Radiology Certification Preparation: Curriculum includes training and preparation for taking the Radiation Health and Safety exam, often required for dental assistants.
Clinical Externship Opportunities: Providing students with valuable experience working in a dental office setting under the supervision of practicing dentists.
Career-Focused Education: Program designed to prepare graduates for entry-level positions as dental assistants in various dental settings.
Potential for National Certification: Curriculum aligned with the requirements for taking the Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) exam, offered by the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB).
Riverside, CA Dental Assistant Training Program
Address: 11801 Pierce St., Suite 100, Riverside, California 92505
Career Care Institute Dental Assisting Training Program Highlights
Graduate prepared for entry-level dental assisting positions in various settings like dentist offices and specialty practices.
Authorized by the Dental Board of California to certify students in Coronal Polish, Radiation Safety, and 8-hour Infection Control (on applicable campuses).
Opportunity to attain Basic Life Support (BLS) card from the American Heart Association.
Eligible to apply for Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) Written, Practical, and Law and Ethics California State Board exams after graduation and 6 months of experience.
Program designed to provide up-to-date skills demanded in today's dental field.
Fast-track program with the possibility to finish in as little as 9 months.
Lancaster, CA Dental Assistant Training Program
Address: 43770 15th Street West Ste 115, Lancaster, California 93534
Central California School of Continuing Education Dental Assisting Training Program Highlights
Comprehensive Curriculum: The program likely covers a broad range of topics including dental terminology, chairside assisting, radiography (x-rays), infection control, sterilization techniques, and dental office administration. Expect hands-on training with simulated dental procedures.
Radiography Certification Preparation: The program probably prepares students to take the Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) exam, especially the radiology component, ensuring graduates are qualified to take dental x-rays, a crucial skill for dental assistants.
Infection Control and Sterilization Emphasis: A strong emphasis is typically placed on infection control protocols and sterilization techniques to ensure a safe environment for both patients and dental staff, in accordance with OSHA standards.
Clinical Externship: A valuable clinical externship is usually included, allowing students to gain real-world experience in a dental office setting. This provides practical skills and exposes students to the daily routines and challenges of a dental assistant. This clinical experience helps students network and potentially secure future employment.
Career-Focused Training: The program is likely designed to provide students with the skills and knowledge needed to quickly enter the workforce as entry-level dental assistants. This includes skills related to patient communication and record-keeping.
Potential RDA Exam Preparation: Some Dental Assisting programs are designed with the Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) exam in mind. Completing the program might make you eligible to take the RDA exam.
Modern Dental Equipment: Students are likely to train using modern dental equipment and technology, mirroring the tools and systems used in contemporary dental practices.
San Luis Obispo, CA Dental Assistant Training Program
Address: 3195 McMillan Ste F, San Luis Obispo, California 93401
1. How long does it take to complete a dental assistant program?
Most programs take 9 months to 2 years to complete, depending on the credential you pursue (certificate, diploma, or associate degree).
2. Are online dental assistant schools as good as in-person programs?
Yes, many online programs are accredited and offer comprehensive coursework. Look for hybrid options that include hands-on externship opportunities in California.
3. Do I need certification to work as a dental assistant in California?
Requirements vary by state, but earning the Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) credential through the DANB can increase your job prospects and salary potential.
4. How much does a dental assistant program cost?
Costs vary by school and program type, with tuition typically ranging from $1,000 to $10,000. Financial aid and scholarships may be available.
5. What is the job outlook for dental assistants in California?
The demand for dental assistants is growing, with steady job opportunities in general and specialized dental practices.
