If you’re trying to decide if dental assistant school is right for you, it’s no surprise that you probably have a lot of questions about career outlook, tuition, class format, and more. Choosing your career is a big move, and you need to be fully informed before taking the jump. So, let us help to answer some of the most frequently asked questions about dental assistant school.
1. How Much is Your Dental Assisting Course?
We know your time and money are valuable. Our dental assisting course is 10 weeks and costs $3,125. This includes:
- Textbooks and supplies
- Materials and equipment
- Access to our state-of-the-art facilities
- Academic and clinical instruction
- 80 Hours of lecture and hands-on training
- Ohio Dental Assisting Certification
- Ohio Radiology Certification
Payment options are available, so being able to pay for schooling is now easier than ever!
2. What Career Paths Are Available to Me?
While it’s easy to assume that by enrolling in dental assisting school, the only profession you can pursue is a dental assistant. You’ll be surprised to know there are various career paths you can take with a dental assistant certificate. These include:
- Dental Assistant
- Certified Dental Assistant
- Expanded Function Dental Assistant
- Dental Assistant Instructor
- Dental Office Business Team Administrator
- Dental Sales Representative
- Dental Hygienist
- Dental Consultant
- Dentist
3. What Do Dental Assistants Typically Make?
You can expect to make anywhere between $12-$14 per hour as an entry-level dental assistant. However, the more experienced you are, your pay can increase up to $30 per hour. This is dependent upon which part of the country you live and practice in.
4. What Can I Expect to Learn While in Dental Assisting School?
As a graduate of the dental assisting program, you can expect to have thorough knowledge and experience in:
- Passing dental instruments
- Taking diagnostic X-rays
- Constructing and placing temporary tooth coverings
- Sterilizing dental instruments
- Disinfecting treatment rooms
As a new student, you can expect to start your program with an introductory course on dentistry and dental anatomy, but over time, you’ll be introduced to more advanced topics and expected to perform certain functions.
There is a wide array of skills dental assistants much acquire and perfect before graduating that can extend from effectively cleaning tools to providing a welcoming and compassionate environment for patients.
5. What Are Some of the Perks to Becoming a Dental Assistant?
It is estimated that the projected growth of dental assistant job opportunities will grow 20% in the next 10 years. That’s a pretty good percentage considering 7% is the average employment opportunity growth. The likeliness you’ll be able to find a job is high, and apart from greater chances of job security, here are some added benefits:
- A flexible schedule that will make it easier for you to balance your work and home life with ease.
- An excellent benefits package because of your decision to pursue a career in the healthcare field.
- Great pay once you complete a brief training period.
If the answers you received are enough for you to say “Yes” to dental assisting school, don’t wait any longer! Get started on your path to a lucrative and successful career today.
About Dental Assistant Pro
For more than 25 years, Dental Assistant Pro has been providing aspiring dental assistants with essential knowledge and hands-on skills learning. We offer a class-based instructional program that combines real-life experience in a dental office with lectures and time spent in operatory treatment rooms. To learn more about us, visit our website or call (513) 515-6611.
