How Long Does It Take To Become a Dental Assistant
By: Jenn Brusco | Updated March 2025
Being a dental assistant can be a secure and rewarding career option. The demand for dental assistants is expected to grow 8% between 2023 and 2033 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, which is faster than the average for all occupations. Dental assistants are found in most dental offices, which means job opportunities can be found nationwide. With that kind of stability, it may just be the opportunity you’ve been waiting for!
What type of training do entry-level dental assistants need?
Entry-level dental assistants must have a high school diploma or equivalent at a minimum, and many employers will also require their dental assistants to have completed an accredited dental assistant training program as well. Typically, dental assistants will choose either a certificate program or an associate degree program to acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively begin their career.
A certificate program can be completed within a year or less, while an associate degree is commonly completed in two years. Dental assistant training programs may vary in their educational delivery (e.g., online, in-person, hybrid) and course structure (e.g., traditional classes, self-paced coursework). Be sure to factor the delivery method and course structure into your decision as it will likely impact other areas of your life, including work and family obligations. Additionally, these factors may impact the total length of your training program. An online, self-paced program – like that offered through U.S. Career Institute – is typically completed within five to 10 months.
A dental assistant training program will likely cover topics such as:
- Dental equipment and instruments
- Dental examinations
- Dental anatomy and terminology
- Dental pain management
- Dental insurance
- Front-office procedures
- Preventive dentistry and nutrition
- Sterilization techniques
- Radiology procedures
- Dental impression techniques
- Emergency procedures
Some dental assistant programs include a hands-on training or lab portion of the program, while others recommend an externship for more experience. Additionally, some dental assistant programs, like U.S. Career Institute’s Dental Assistant certificate program, will prepare you to take a dental assistant certification exam. Not every employer or state will require a certification to practice. Check with your local governing agencies to see if your state requires certification for dental assistants. You also may want to do a quick search of active job postings to see what qualifications employers in your area are seeking.
How long does it take to be fully trained as a dental assistant
Depending on the program you choose, completing your dental assistant training may take less than a year for certificate programs or two years for associate degree programs. Beyond this initial training, you may also need to factor in additional hands-on training or externship experience to help build a solid foundation that will enable you to enter this career as successfully as possible. Keep in mind that you will have some employer-specific training when beginning a new job as well. This will help you learn the specific policies and procedures of the dental practice you are joining.
If you are considering becoming a dental assistant, then don’t wait! Start your training today with U.S. Career Institute’s Online Dental Assistant School.
