Find Dental Assistant Training Programs in Colorado
If you're considering a career as a dental assistant in Colorado, 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 Colorado 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 Colorado.
Trinidad State College Dental Assistant Training Program Highlights
Comprehensive Curriculum: The program likely covers a broad range of dental assisting skills, including chairside assisting, dental radiography, infection control, dental materials, and office management.
State-of-the-Art Facilities: Students likely gain hands-on experience in a modern dental lab setting, using equipment similar to what they'll find in real-world dental offices.
Clinical Experience: The program typically includes clinical rotations in local dental offices, providing invaluable real-world experience working alongside dentists and other dental professionals.
Radiology Certification: Graduates are prepared to take the state or national radiology certification exam, allowing them to take dental radiographs.
Career Opportunities: Successful completion of the program leads to a range of career opportunities, including dental assistant positions in general dentistry, orthodontics, periodontics, pediatric dentistry, and oral surgery.
Preparation for National Certification: The curriculum is designed to prepare students for the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) exam, which is often required or preferred by employers.
Experienced Instructors: The program is likely taught by experienced dental professionals with years of practical knowledge and expertise in the field.
Pickens Technical College Dental Assisting Training Program Highlights
Accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation, ensuring high educational standards.
Hands-on training with 50% of the program dedicated to practical work in a simulated dental environment with industry-grade equipment.
Off-site clinical assignments in a variety of private dental offices and clinics, providing real-world experience.
Curriculum covers a comprehensive range of skills, including chairside assisting, reception duties, lab work, and direct patient care such as taking x-rays and impressions.
Prepares students to become contributing members of the dental profession, meeting the needs of diverse populations.
Credits earned are recognized by the Colorado Community College System (CCCS) and are eligible for transfer to other colleges within Colorado.
Employment opportunity in this field is 6 times higher than the national average of a job.
Pikes Peak State College Dental Assisting Training Program Highlights
Only Dental Assisting program in Southern Colorado accredited by the American Dental Association's Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA).
Combines coursework with a minimum of 300 hours of clinical experience for practical, hands-on learning.
Prepares graduates to take the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) Exam and become Certified Dental Assistants (CDA).
Offers both an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree and a certificate program to suit different career goals.
AAS degree includes general education classes for a well-rounded healthcare professional education.
Curriculum covers a wide range of essential skills, including assisting with dental procedures, taking X-rays, infection control, and patient communication.
Colorado Springs, CO Dental Assistant Training Program
Address: 5675 S Academy Blvd, Colorado Springs, Colorado 80906-5498
Pima Medical Institute-Aurora Dental Assistant Training Program Highlights
Hands-on, real-world training provides practical skills.
Experienced instructors guide students in labs that mirror real-world dental settings.
Prepares students for entry-level dental assistant roles with administrative, communication, and assisting skills.
Curriculum covers a comprehensive range of dental assisting duties, including patient preparation, x-rays, instrument sterilization, and patient education.
Graduates in certain states are prepared to take the Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) License Exam.
Offers a hybrid learning option for flexible scheduling.
Access to Career Services for resume building, interview skills, and job placement assistance.
Aurora, CO Dental Assistant Training Program
Address: 13750 E. Mississippi Avenue, Aurora, Colorado 80012-0000
Emily Griffith Technical College Dental Assistant Training Program Highlights
Comprehensive Curriculum: The program likely covers a wide range of topics, including dental terminology, chairside assisting, radiography, infection control, dental materials, and office management.
Hands-on Training: Students gain practical experience through simulated dental procedures in well-equipped dental labs, mirroring real-world dental office settings.
Clinical Externship: A significant portion of the program involves a clinical externship in a local dental office, providing real-world experience working alongside dentists and other dental professionals. This is a crucial element for applying skills and gaining confidence.
Radiography Certification Preparation: The program likely prepares students to take the Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) exam, and possibly specifically, the national DANB (Dental Assisting National Board) exam which includes radiography. Successful completion enables graduates to take x-rays in the state of Colorado.
CPR Certification: Students typically receive certification in Basic Life Support (BLS) or CPR, which is a standard requirement for dental assistants.
Career Opportunities: Graduates are prepared for entry-level positions as dental assistants in general dentistry practices, specialty dental offices (orthodontics, periodontics, oral surgery), dental clinics, and public health settings.
Industry-Recognized Credentials: Successfully completing the program would likely allow graduates to gain industry-recognized credentials, making them more competitive in the job market.
Denver, CO Dental Assistant Training Program
Address: 1860 Lincoln Street, Denver, Colorado 80203
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 Colorado.
3. Do I need certification to work as a dental assistant in Colorado?
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 Colorado?
The demand for dental assistants is growing, with steady job opportunities in general and specialized dental practices.
