Q. How can I become a Dental Assistant?
A. Becoming a Dental Assistant typically requires a HS diploma or equivalent and formal training through an accredited institution can also be helpful. After completing a recognized program, the next step is to sit for and pass an industry certification exam. U.S. Career Institute's Dental Assistant program will prepare you to take the Registered Dental Assistant Certification exam administered by the American Medical Technologists (AMT).
Back to top
Q. What does a Dental Assistant do?
A. Dental assistants perform many tasks, ranging from providing patient care and taking x-rays to recordkeeping and scheduling appointments.
Back to top
Q. How do I do Clinicals?
A. This program is completed entirely online and includes virtual labs.
Back to top
Q. Do I need to get Certified as a Dental Assistant?
A. Upon graduation from our program, you will receive your U.S. Career Institute Certificate of Completion attesting to your accomplishment. U.S. Career Institute’s Dental Assistant program prepares you to take the Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) certification exam, administered through American Medical Technologists (AMT). Included with our program, we cover the cost of your RDA exam through AMT - $135 value†. USCI encourages graduates to review the RDA test prep materials on the AMT website prior to taking the exam. The AMT site includes free study materials. If you choose to pursue certification, in addition to your online dental assistant certification training from USCI you will need to provide proof of current CPR certification prior to sitting for the exam. The cost of CPR training is not covered by USCI.
Back to top
Q. Does this meet my Dental Assistant state requirements?
A. A career in this field may require you to meet certain licensing, training, and other requirements that can vary by vocation and state. You should check with your state, local government and/or licensing board to find out which requirements may be applicable in your state.
Back to top
IMPORTANT State Licensing Requirements: Click here for more information.
Regulations and requirements for certification, registration, and licensure vary by state. Some states may include additional requirements beyond those offered in our course. Prospective students should contact the regulatory agency in the state(s) where they plan to work to confirm their requirements before enrolling in this course. Not all states require licensure of Dental Assistants. Verifying licensing requirements is particularly important for residents of CA, DC and HI.
Please visit the Dental Assisting National Board, Inc. (DANB) for links to individual state information.
Q. What is the growth potential of a Dental Assistant?
A. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Dental Assistants jobs are expected to increase 11% by 2030.*
Back to top
Q. What is the salary of a Dental Assistant?
A. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Dental Assistants earn up to $38,660 a year.*
Back to top
Q. How much does a Dental Assistant Course cost?
A. Tuition for this program is $1,239 total when you pay in full. Payment plans are also available.
Back to top
Q. Is this Dental Assistant Program accredited?
A. U.S. Career Institute is Accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission. The Distance Education Accrediting Commission is listed by the U.S. Department of Education as a recognized accrediting agency.
Back to top
Q. Where Can I Work as a Dental Assistant?
A. Almost all Dental Assistants work in dentists’ offices.
Back to top
Q. What skills will I learn in this Dental Assistant program?
A. Skills covered in the Dental Assistant Program include Preventative Dentistry and Nutrition, Dental Examinations, Front Office Procedures, Introduction to Oral Anatomy, Dental Pain Management, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Restorative Dental Procedures, Dental Anatomy and Terminology.
Back to top