Find Dental Assistant Training Programs in Pennsylvania
If you're considering a career as a dental assistant in Pennsylvania, 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 Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania.
York County School of Technology-Adult & Continuing Education Dental Assisting Training Program Highlights
Comprehensive dental assisting training covering instrument passing, infection control, and patient care.
Hands-on experience in preparing dental materials, taking impressions and X-rays, and performing basic lab duties.
Focus on critical skills needed to effectively assist dentists during procedures.
Opportunity to earn valuable certifications including Ethics in the Workplace, Radiation Health & Safety (RHS), BLS Healthcare Provider, and Soft Skills
Dedicated program with courses throughout all four years (with co-op opportunities during senior year).
Students learn in a simulated dental office environment.
York, PA Dental Assistant Training Program
Address: 2179 S Queen St, York, Pennsylvania 17402-4696
Somerset County Technology Center Dental Assisting Training Program Highlights
Prepares students to function effectively as an integral member of the dental health team.
Covers chair-side assisting, office duties, laboratory procedures, and dental radiography.
Provides opportunities to earn industry-recognized certifications, including the Pennsylvania Skills Certificate (NOCTI) and Dental Assisting National Board Radiation and Health Safety.
Includes American Heart Association – Heartsaver® CPR/AED/First Aid/BLS for Health Care Providers certification.
Offers hands-on learning experiences through the Cooperative Education Program with local dental practices.
Focuses on various areas of study, including Operative/Chair-Side Dentistry, Dental Materials, Oral Surgery, and Orthodontics.
Students Occupationally and Academically Ready (SOAR) programs prepare students for high-demand, high-wage careers.
Preparation for the Radiation Health and Safety (RHS) exam and possibly other relevant certifications like CPR and First Aid, increasing employability.
Opportunities for clinical experiences and/or externships with local dental practices, providing real-world exposure and networking possibilities.
Instruction provided by experienced dental professionals, often including licensed dentists and certified dental assistants.
Focus on developing essential soft skills such as communication, patient care, and teamwork, alongside technical skills.
Potential articulation agreements with local colleges, allowing students to earn college credits for their Dental Assistant program coursework.
Willow Street, PA Dental Assistant Training Program
Address: 1730 Hans Herr Dr, Willow Street, Pennsylvania 17584
Prepares students to take the National Dental Radiology Health and Safety Exam and the Infection Control Exam.
Opportunity to earn multiple certifications, including First Aid, Adult & Infant/Child CPR, Basic Life Support (BLS), HeartSaver, and Radiation Health & Safety (RHS).
SOAR program articulation for seamless transition to further education.
Cooperative Education program allows students to gain paid employment experience while in high school.
Graduates are employed by reputable dental practices, including Aspen Dental and Silverman Dental Associates.
Lebanon, PA Dental Assistant Training Program
Address: 833 Metro Dr, Lebanon, Pennsylvania 17042
Hands-on Training: Emphasizes practical skills through simulated dental office environments and real-world clinical experiences.
Externship Opportunities: Provides externships with local dental practices to gain valuable on-the-job experience and networking opportunities.
Qualified Instructors: Taught by experienced dental professionals dedicated to providing students with personalized attention and guidance.
State-of-the-Art Facilities: Utilizes modern dental equipment and technology to prepare students for the demands of the field.
Career Services Support: Offers career counseling, resume workshops, and job placement assistance to help graduates find employment.
Potential Certification Preparation: Curriculum designed to prepare students for the Radiation Health and Safety certification and possibly the Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) exam (check with the school for current exam coverage).
Greater Altoona Career & Technology Center Dental Assistant Training Program Highlights
Comprehensive three-year program designed to prepare students as integral members of a dental health care team.
Hands-on experience in preparing patients for treatment, maintaining treatment areas, and sterilizing instruments.
Training in exposing, processing, and mounting dental radiographs, preparing students for the Radiation Health and Safety component of the Dental Association National Board exam.
Emphasis on chairside assisting, recording vital signs, recognizing emergencies, and CPR certification.
Focus on the legal and ethical aspects of dentistry, and education in the prevention of dental diseases.
Opportunity to participate in the Cooperative Education program during the senior year, gaining real-world experience in a dental office.
Potential to earn college credit through articulation and dual enrollment opportunities.
Harcum College Dental Assisting Training Program Highlights
Comprehensive Curriculum: Covering chairside assisting, dental radiography, infection control, dental materials, and office management, providing a well-rounded education.
Hands-on Clinical Experience: Likely includes significant clinical practice, either on campus or through externships in local dental offices, allowing students to apply learned skills in real-world settings.
State-of-the-Art Facilities: Harcum College likely has a dedicated dental assisting lab equipped with modern dental chairs, x-ray equipment, and sterilization facilities to simulate a dental office environment.
Radiology Certification: Graduates are likely prepared to take the Radiation Health and Safety Examination (RHS) to become certified dental radiographers.
National Entry-Level Certification Preparation: The curriculum is designed to prepare students for the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) exam, a nationally recognized credential.
Career Advancement Opportunities: Graduates can pursue entry-level positions as dental assistants and may be eligible for further education and specialization in areas like expanded functions dental assisting.
Focus on Patient Care: Emphasizes the importance of patient communication, empathy, and ethical conduct in providing quality dental care.
Harrisburg Area Community College Dental Assistant Training Program Highlights
Comprehensive Curriculum: Focuses on foundational knowledge and skills in dental sciences, chairside assisting, radiography, infection control, and dental office management.
Hands-on Clinical Experience: Provides extensive clinical experience in well-equipped dental labs and/or through externship opportunities at local dental offices, hospitals, and clinics. Students will likely perform a variety of duties under the supervision of dental professionals.
Radiography Certification Preparation: The curriculum prepares students to sit for the Radiation Health and Safety (RHS) exam, a crucial certification for dental assistants in Pennsylvania.
CPR Certification: Includes training and certification in Basic Life Support (BLS)/CPR for healthcare providers.
Career-Focused Training: Emphasizes practical skills to prepare graduates for immediate entry into the dental assisting profession.
State-of-the-Art Facilities: HACC likely maintains modern dental assisting labs equipped with dental chairs, radiographic equipment, sterilization units, and other necessary tools to simulate a real-world dental office environment.
Experienced Faculty: Instructors are typically experienced dental professionals, including dentists and certified dental assistants, who bring real-world knowledge and expertise to the classroom.
Central Pennsylvania Institute of Science and Technology Dental Assistant Training Program Highlights
Comprehensive Curriculum: The program likely covers a broad range of dental assisting skills, including chairside assisting, radiography, infection control, dental materials, and office management.
State-of-the-Art Facilities: Expect access to a modern dental lab equipped with the tools and equipment needed to practice dental assisting techniques.
Clinical Experience: The program likely includes a clinical externship in a real dental office, providing hands-on experience working with dentists and patients.
Radiology Certification Preparation: The program is likely designed to prepare students for the Radiology Health and Safety (RHS) examination, a crucial certification for dental assistants.
CPR/First Aid Certification: Students likely receive CPR and First Aid training and certification as part of the program, essential for any healthcare professional.
Career Services Support: The school likely offers career services to assist graduates with job placement, including resume writing, interview skills, and networking opportunities.
Emphasis on Infection Control: Given the importance of sterilization and asepsis in dentistry, the program likely places strong emphasis on infection control protocols and procedures.
Bellefonte, PA Dental Assistant Training Program
Address: 540 N Harrison Rd, Pleasant Gap, Pennsylvania 16823
Preparation for and opportunity to sit for the Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) exam, or other relevant state certifications (depending on state regulations where the campus is located; check with the specific campus).
Externship program providing real-world experience in a dental office setting, allowing students to apply their skills and build professional connections.
Instruction by experienced dental professionals who provide individualized attention and guidance.
Focus on patient communication and ethical considerations within the dental field.
Curriculum may include training in digital dental technologies, such as digital radiography and intraoral scanning, reflecting current dental practice trends.
Essington, PA Dental Assistant Training Program
Address: 50 West Powhattan Avenue, Essington, Pennsylvania 19029
FAQs About Dental Assistant Schools in Pennsylvania
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 Pennsylvania.
3. Do I need certification to work as a dental assistant in Pennsylvania?
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 Pennsylvania?
The demand for dental assistants is growing, with steady job opportunities in general and specialized dental practices.
