Find Dental Assistant Training Programs in North Carolina
If you're considering a career as a dental assistant in North Carolina, 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 North Carolina 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 North Carolina.
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Dental Assistant Training Program Highlights
Comprehensive Curriculum: Students gain a thorough understanding of dental assisting principles, including chairside assisting, radiography, infection control, dental materials, and office management.
State-of-the-Art Facilities: Access to modern dental clinics and simulation labs equipped with advanced technology, mirroring real-world dental office environments. This allows students to develop practical skills using industry-standard equipment.
Experienced Faculty: Instruction from experienced dentists, dental hygienists, and certified dental assistants, providing valuable insights and mentorship. UNC Chapel Hill generally has highly qualified instructors.
Clinical Rotations: Extensive hands-on clinical experience in the UNC Adams School of Dentistry clinics and potentially external community dental health clinics. Students work alongside dental professionals, gaining practical experience with diverse patient populations.
Radiography Certification Preparation: The curriculum prepares students to take the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) Radiology Health and Safety (RHS) exam, a crucial certification for dental assistants in many states.
Career Placement Assistance: Support services dedicated to helping graduates find employment opportunities, including resume writing, interview preparation, and networking with potential employers. The reputation of UNC likely enhances job prospects.
Potential for Advanced Education: The program provides a solid foundation for those interested in pursuing further education in dental hygiene or other dental-related fields.
Chapel Hill, NC Dental Assistant Training Program
Address: 103 South Bldg Cb 9100, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599
Wake Technical Community College Dental Assistant Training Program Highlights
Comprehensive Curriculum: The program likely covers a wide range of topics including dental anatomy, radiology, chairside assisting, infection control, dental materials, and office management. Expect coursework that integrates theory and practical application.
Hands-on Clinical Experience: A significant portion of the program is likely dedicated to clinical experiences, both in simulated lab environments and real-world dental offices. This allows students to apply their skills and gain confidence working with patients.
Preparation for National Certification: The program is designed to prepare students to sit for the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) exams, allowing them to become Certified Dental Assistants (CDA). Specific program details may indicate which DANB exams are specifically covered.
State-of-the-Art Facilities: Wake Tech likely offers modern dental labs equipped with up-to-date dental equipment and technology, providing students with a realistic training environment.
Experienced Faculty: The faculty likely consists of experienced dental professionals, including dentists and dental assistants, who bring real-world knowledge and expertise to the classroom.
Career Opportunities: Graduates are prepared for entry-level positions in general dentistry, specialty dental practices (e.g., orthodontics, periodontics, oral surgery), dental clinics, and public health settings. Wake Tech likely maintains connections with local dental practices to facilitate job placement.
Potential for Advancement: The Dental Assistant program can serve as a foundation for further education and career advancement in the dental field. Graduates may pursue additional training to become dental hygienists or dental lab technicians.
Raleigh, NC Dental Assistant Training Program
Address: 9101 Fayetteville Road, Raleigh, North Carolina 27603-5696
Preparation for and potential opportunity to take the Radiation Health and Safety (RHS) exam, and potentially other relevant certifications like CPR, which enhances employability.
Externship component provides real-world experience working alongside dental professionals in a dental office, giving students valuable practical experience and networking opportunities.
Focus on developing both clinical and interpersonal skills, including patient communication, teamwork, and professionalism.
Instruction from experienced dental professionals who bring real-world knowledge and expertise to the classroom.
Career services support, including resume writing assistance, job search strategies, and interview preparation, to help graduates find employment after graduation.
Raleigh, NC Dental Assistant Training Program
Address: 3901 Capital Blvd Ste 151, Raleigh, North Carolina 27604-6072
Montgomery Community College Dental Assisting Training Program Highlights
One-year diploma program preparing students for a Dental Assistant II (DAII) classification in North Carolina.
Comprehensive curriculum covering general studies, biomedical sciences, dental sciences, clinical sciences, and clinical practice.
Extensive clinical experience: 384 hours working under the direction of dental professionals in a real-world setting.
Graduates eligible to take the Dental Assisting National Board Examination to become Certified Dental Assistants (CDA).
Training in a virtual dental office setting within a state-of-the-art facility with fully-equipped operatories, lab, radiology facilities, and classroom.
Active Dental Assisting Club providing opportunities for community involvement, fundraising, and professional development.
Prepares students for expanded functions as legally defined by the North Carolina State Board of Dental Examiners.
Isothermal Community College Dental Assisting Training Program Highlights
Prepares students to be integral members of the dental team, performing chairside, office, and laboratory procedures.
Curriculum includes general studies, biomedical sciences, dental sciences, clinical sciences, and clinical practice.
Provides hands-on experience through a combination of lectures, labs, and clinical rotations at locations like the Mountain Area Health Education Center Dental Office and local dental offices.
Focuses on infection/hazard control, radiography, dental materials, preventive dentistry, and clinical procedures.
Graduates may be eligible to take the Dental Assisting National Board Examination to become Certified Dental Assistants.
Prepares graduates to work as Dental Assistant IIs, as defined by North Carolina Dental Laws.
Actively seeking accreditation from the American Dental Association Commission on Dental Accreditation.
Spindale, NC Dental Assistant Training Program
Address: 286 ICC Loop Road, Spindale, North Carolina 28160-0804
FAQs About Dental Assistant Schools in North Carolina
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 North Carolina.
3. Do I need certification to work as a dental assistant in North Carolina?
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 North Carolina?
The demand for dental assistants is growing, with steady job opportunities in general and specialized dental practices.
