Dental Assistant Program
Dental Career Institute in Huntington Beach, CA, offers a variety of training options in dental assisting and advanced certifications. The primary Dental Assisting/RDA Course provides comprehensive training for entry-level dental assisting, while additional certifications allow for specialization in areas like coronal polishing, radiation safety, and infection control.
Program Overview
The core Dental Assisting/RDA course at Dental Career Institute prepares students for work as a dental assistant and includes California certifications required for the Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) designation. The course includes 289 hours of home study paired with 276 hours of live instruction in lab settings, plus 266 hours of clinical practice. Upon completion, students are qualified to take on duties ranging from patient care to radiographic imaging and infection control.
Additional Certification Options
In addition to the primary RDA course, the institute offers multiple certification courses for specialized skills:
- Radiation Safety: Covers techniques and safety practices for taking dental X-rays.
- Coronal Polishing and Sealants: Provides hands-on training in these essential patient care skills.
- Orthodontic Assistant Permit: For those interested in orthodontics, this course allows RDAs to perform specific duties in orthodontic settings.
These courses can be taken separately, allowing current dental assistants to expand their skill set at their own pace.
Prerequisites
For the main Dental Assisting/RDA program, the following prerequisites must be met:
- High school diploma or GED
- Hepatitis B vaccination or signed refusal
- Clear tuberculosis test result
- Current CPR/BLS certification from the American Heart Association or American Red Cross (online courses not accepted)
Additional courses, like the Radiation Safety or Coronal Polishing, may have their own specific prerequisites based on experience or previous certifications.
Flexible Learning Options
One of the unique aspects of this program is the home study option, which allows students to complete significant portions of their coursework online. Combined with live lab and clinical hours, this flexibility makes it easier for working students to balance their studies.
Program Cost and Financial Considerations
The tuition for the Dental Assisting/RDA course is approximately $13,000, with a non-refundable $1,000 down payment and monthly payments available. It’s worth noting that no financial aid or government assistance is provided by the institute, which may be a drawback for some students. Additional certification courses vary in cost, with options for single courses like Infection Control at $250 or Orthodontic Assistant training at $1,300.
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Dental Career Institute’s program can pursue positions in general or specialty dental practices, including orthodontics, pediatric dentistry, and community health clinics. The program’s certifications provide an advantage in the competitive California dental assisting job market, where specialized skills are highly valued.
Why Dental Career Institute?
Dental Career Institute offers a comprehensive pathway to becoming a Registered Dental Assistant, with the added benefit of specialized courses that enhance employability. The flexible home-study format is ideal for those balancing other commitments. However, the high tuition and lack of financial aid may require careful financial planning. This program is a solid choice for students ready to invest in a complete, well-rounded education that meets California’s RDA standards.
| Category | Description |
| Cost | $13,000 for the Dental Assisting/RDA course; additional fees for specialized certifications |
| Program Duration | Varies by course; main RDA program is several months |
| Class Schedules | Home study with scheduled in-person lab and clinical sessions |
| Classes Offered | Dental Assisting/RDA, Radiation Safety, Infection Control, Coronal Polishing, Orthodontic Assistant Permit |
| Admission Requirements | High school diploma or GED, Hepatitis B vaccination or waiver, tuberculosis test, CPR/BLS certification |
| Online Classes? | Yes, through home study and electronic media |
| Job Placement? | Information not provided |
| Financial Aid Options | No financial aid or government assistance available |
| Location | 18377 Beach Blvd, Ste 328, Huntington Beach, CA 92648 |
| Phone | (562) 704-2651 |
| [email protected] | |
| Website | https://www.dentalcareerinstitute.com/ |