Looking for an accelerated dental assistant program in Los Angeles that lasts weeks and not years? Here’s a quick overview of three standout options, each designed to help you launch your career quickly with targeted training and hands-on experience.
- Downey Adult School: A 26-week program, combining 18 weeks of classes with a 7-week externship, covering both practical and administrative skills.
- The Valley School For Dental Assisting: A 12-week, cost-effective program offering flexible day and evening schedules with core certifications for entry-level dental roles.
- American Dental Academy: An 8-week program with a 40-hour externship, providing fast-paced, hands-on training and essential certifications.
Learn more about each program’s costs, schedules, certifications, and other details in the summaries below to find the best fit for your goals.
Dental Assistant Class Providers
1. Downey Adult School
The accelerated Dental Assistant Program at Downey Adult School runs 18 weeks of classes followed by an additional 7-week externship, totaling 26 weeks. Classes are held Monday through Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., offering a full-time schedule focused on practical skills in dental assisting.
The program curriculum covers key certifications like the 8-hour Infection Control and Dental Radiation Safety, along with skills in dental billing, coding, and front-office responsibilities. Students complete 200 externship hours at an approved dental site to gain hands-on experience. Upon fulfilling all requirements, graduates may be eligible to take the California Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) exam.
| Category | Description |
| Cost | $4,999 |
| Program Duration | 26 weeks (18 weeks of classes + 7-week externship) |
| Class Schedules | Monday – Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. |
| Online Classes? | Available |
| Location | 12340 Woodruff Ave, Downey, CA 90241 |
| Phone | (562) 940-6200 |
2. The Valley School for Dental Assisting
The Valley School For Dental Assisting offers a 12-week accelerated dental assistant program designed to prepare students for entry-level roles in dental care. The program includes both lecture and hands-on lab components, focusing on essential skills such as X-ray safety, infection control, coronal polishing, and dental law. Classes are structured to give students practical, job-ready knowledge of dental procedures, patient care, and equipment sterilization.
Students can choose from flexible class schedules, including daytime and evening options, available at the Encino and Downey campuses. Upon completion, graduates receive a certificate in Dental Assisting and several certifications recognized by the California Dental Board. Additionally, the program offers job placement support, including resume guidance and interview preparation, to help students transition smoothly into the dental workforce.
| Category | Description |
| Cost | $2,400 |
| Program Duration | 12 weeks |
| Class Schedules | Day and evening classes available |
| Online Classes? | No |
| Location | 16500 Ventura Blvd. Suite #315/405, Encino, CA 91436 |
| Phone | (888) 866-2001 |
3. American Dental Academy
American Dental Academy offers a fast-paced 8-week Dental Assisting Program designed to prepare students for entry-level roles in dental offices. Classes are held on Mondays and Wednesdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., providing structured hands-on training and theoretical instruction. This program totals 155 hours, including a 40-hour externship where students gain real-world experience in a dental setting.
The curriculum covers essential skills such as chairside assistance, sterilization techniques, and dental x-ray procedures. Students complete certifications in Radiation Safety, Infection Control, and CPR, essential for dental assisting roles. By the end of the program, graduates receive a Certificate in Dental Assisting, which includes all required state certifications to assist effectively in a dental environment.
| Category | Description |
| Cost | $4,462 |
| Program Duration | 8 weeks |
| Class Schedules | Mondays and Wednesdays, 9 AM – 4 PM |
| Online Classes? | No |
| Location | 212 S Atlantic Blvd, East Los Angeles, CA 90022 |
| Phone | (323) 622-6688 |
Our Recommendation
Choosing an accelerated dental assistant program depends largely on your specific needs and schedule flexibility. Here’s a breakdown of the top options:
- Downey Adult School offers the longest accelerated program at 26 weeks, including an 18-week class period followed by a 7-week externship. While longer than other accelerated options, it remains shorter than most standard programs and is ideal if you seek an accelerated pace with online class availability—this is the only program with that option. The full-time, weekday schedule provides comprehensive coverage of both clinical and administrative skills, preparing students thoroughly for the California RDA exam.
- The Valley School For Dental Assisting is the most affordable program at $2,400 and provides flexible scheduling with both day and evening classes. This makes it a strong choice if affordability and flexible class times are top priorities. The 12-week curriculum includes necessary certifications for dental assisting and also supports job placement, making it accessible for students needing a balance of cost and scheduling options.
- American Dental Academy stands out for its short duration, completing the program in just 8 weeks. This includes 155 total hours and a 40-hour externship, offering students a quick path to certification and entry into the field. With its focused schedule on Mondays and Wednesdays, this program is best suited for those who want a rapid transition into dental assisting without a lengthy commitment.
Each program has distinct strengths, so the right choice ultimately depends on your time commitment, budget, and class schedule preferences.