Dental Assistant Program in Los Angeles

Dive into the critical foundations of dental practice with our Dental Office Emergencies and Compliance module. Immerse yourself in the essential principles of infection control, Cal-DOSH (California Only) regulations, and Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards. We prioritize understanding the psychological aspects of patient communication and addressing anxieties related to dental treatment. This module equips you not only with the technical expertise needed for infection control but also with the interpersonal skills crucial for creating a patient-friendly environment. 

Unlock the mysteries of dental radiography in our comprehensive module dedicated to understanding the intricacies of this essential practice. Delve into the realms of radiation protection, X-ray hazards, and the exciting world of digital radiography. This module not only provides theoretical knowledge but also empowers you with practical skills to confidently navigate the evolving landscape of dental imaging. Mastering dental radiography is a key component of your journey toward becoming a skilled and knowledgeable dental assistant. 

Explore the diverse and intricate world of dental specialties in this foundational module. From cranial anatomy to anesthesia administration, you'll delve into the specifics of oral surgery, endodontics, and pediatric dentistry. This comprehensive exploration lays the groundwork for your proficiency in various dental specialties, ensuring you're well-prepared for the diverse challenges that await you in the field. Acquire the knowledge and skills needed to become a versatile and competent dental assistant. 

Master the art of four-handed dentistry and chair-side assisting duties in our Operatory Dentistry module. Your ability to seamlessly assist in dental procedures will set you apart in your future career. This hands-on training emphasizes the importance of effective collaboration and instrument handling. Gain the practical skills needed to be a valuable asset in a dental office, contributing to the smooth flow of patient care. 

Delve into the heart of dental laboratory work with our Laboratory Procedures module. Gain hands-on training in impression-taking and constructing study casts. This practical experience extends to fabricating dental prosthetics, setting the stage for your pivotal role in the dental laboratory. Acquire the skills needed to work with precision and craftsmanship in crafting essential dental components. 

Focus on orthodontics as a specialty in this comprehensive module. From practicing measurements to band placement and arch wire ligation, delve into the intricacies of orthodontic assistance. This module deepens your understanding of tooth morphology, oral structures, and oral pathology, setting the stage for a successful career in orthodontic assistance. 

Specialize in oral pathology, periodontics, and preventive dentistry in our Dental Health module. From pit and fissure sealants to coronal polish procedures, this comprehensive module prepares you for a holistic and preventive approach to dental health. Acquire the knowledge and skills needed to contribute to the overall well-being of dental patients. 

Stay ahead of the curve in our Modern Concepts in Dental Assisting module. Acquire additional skills and duties, including intraoral photography, face bow transfer, and light-cured isolation techniques. Familiarize yourself with EKG monitoring, automated caries detection, and computer-aided design (CAD) machines, ensuring you're well-versed in the latest practices and technologies in dental assisting. 

Gain insights into the administrative aspects of a dental office with our Administrative Dentistry module. Explore administrative procedures, receptionist duties, and legal/ethical responsibilities. Acquire hands-on experience with practice management software, dental insurance coding, and billing procedures. This module prepares you for the essential administrative responsibilities that contribute to the efficient functioning of a dental practice. 

Equip yourself for success in the job market with our Employment Preparation course. From effective job searching and application writing to resume building and interview techniques, this course ensures you're ready to navigate the job market and secure a rewarding position in the field. Be prepared for a seamless transition from education to employment with the skills and confidence needed for a successful career. 

Apply your accumulated skills in a real-world setting during a 160-hour externship in our Dental Assistant Externship module. This hands-on experience allows you to work directly in a dental office or clinic, where you'll gain invaluable practical exposure under the supervision of experienced dental professionals. The externship provides you with the opportunity to put your knowledge into practice, from assisting with procedures to preparing equipment and managing patient interactions.

This real-world exposure helps solidify your understanding of dental assisting and prepares you to handle the day-to-day challenges of the profession. Whether it's preparing treatment rooms, taking X-rays, or assisting with patient care, the externship allows you to apply your skills in a supportive environment, giving you the confidence and competence needed to succeed. By the end of the program, you’ll be fully equipped to contribute effectively to a dental team, ready to step into your role with the experience and expertise required in a fast-paced, professional setting.

Tuition: $16,500.00

Materials and Supplies: $1456.50

Books and uniforms: $560.00

Registration fee: $75.00 (non-refundable)

STRF: $47.50 (non-refundable)

Total Cost: $18,639.00*

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*Financial aid is available for those who qualify. 

At National Career College (NCC), we embrace the philosophy that education is an investment, not a barrier. Understanding that financial constraints should not prevent students from achieving their educational goals, NCC is committed to providing comprehensive support to navigate the financial aspects of education. This commitment includes assisting students with the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to unlock a range of financial aid options. 

Potential Financial Aid options: 

• Federal Pell Grants
• Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants (FSEOG)
• Federal Direct Loans (both subsidized and unsubsidized)
• Direct Parent Loans for Undergraduate Students (PLUS) 
• Cal Grants
• Guidance for applying for private loans and scholarships. 

With a clear focus on making education accessible and affordable, NCC encourages prospective students to reach out to its Financial Aid Department to explore how these financial aid opportunities can support their journey toward achieving their academic and career aspirations. Financial aid is available for those who qualify. 

The admissions requirements for the Dental Assistant (DA) program at National Career College (NCC) are designed to welcome students from diverse backgrounds who are eager to pursue a career in nursing. Here's a summary of the key requirements for prospective DA students:

1. Obtain School Catalog and Program Brochures: Candidates must first acquire the NCC catalog and DA program-specific brochure to understand the comprehensive details of the program.
2. Campus Visit and Personal Interview: Applicants are expected to attend a personal interview and tour the NCC campus to become acquainted with the community and facilities. Schedule a Campus Tour. 
3. Entrance Evaluations: Pass the SLE entrance evaluation to assess suitability and readiness for the course.
   • Scholastic Level Exam (SLE): All  DA program applicants must take the SLE, which measures problem-solving abilities. The exam consists of 50 questions to be completed in 12 minutes without external aids, with a passing score of 12 for the  DA program.
4. Application Submission: Complete and submit an application for admission along with providing proof of a valid high school diploma or an equivalent qualification, such as a GED or HiSET.
5. Registration Fee: Pay a one-time, non-refundable registration fee of $75.

NCC is committed to ensuring that prospective students are fully informed about the admissions process, including completion and placement rates, to aid in making educated decisions about their education and career aspirations. For full details, refer to the National Career College Catalog 2024.

There is no required certification or licensure necessary for employment after completing the Dental Assistant program at National Career College.

Graduates obtain Radiation Safety, Infection Control, and Coronal Polishing certifications approved by the Dental Board of California.

Upon graduation and additional work experience, students are eligible to sit for the Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) examination offered by the Dental Board of California (CA DCA).

At National Career College (NCC), our dedication to your success reaches beyond graduation, providing comprehensive career support through our Career Services Department. We assist in the seamless transition from student to professional by offering services in resume preparation, job leads, effective job search techniques, interview preparation, application assistance, interview follow-up, career management workshops, and networking opportunities. 

While employment cannot be guaranteed, NCC encourages realistic career expectations, emphasizing entry-level positions as the foundation for career advancement. Our ongoing support includes guidance on navigating the job market and preparing for interviews, reinforcing our commitment to your career development. NCC's Career Services acts as a steadfast partner in your professional journey, equipping you with the tools and skills needed to step into your future career confidently.

At National Career College, we empower military members, veterans, reservists, and their families with quality education in healthcare and business, offering flexible scheduling, dedicated support, and maximization of military education benefits to facilitate a successful transition to civilian life. For more details read Military and Veterans.

Our dedicated faculty, comprising seasoned healthcare professionals and educators, plays a pivotal role in our students' educational journey. Their expertise and personalized approach to teaching ensure that students receive the support they need to succeed. 

Student Services offers comprehensive support that ensures every student's success through a wide array of services, from graduation ceremonies and academic resources to 24/7 technical support and personalized guidance, empowering you to excel academically and prepare confidently for your future career.

Check out our most popular blogs for more information:

1. A Day in the Life of a Dental Assistant
2. Dental Assistant Job Description for California
3. Dental Assistant Salary in California
4. How To Become a Dental Assistant in California