Dental Assistant Program
The Dental Assistant program at Downey Adult School prepares students for entry-level roles as Clinical Dental Assistants or Dental Billing and Front Office Coordinators. With a mix of classroom learning, hands-on training, and a 200-hour externship, students will gain essential dental skills and complete the necessary certifications to pursue a career in dental assisting.
Key Highlights
- Affordable Tuition: At $4,999, this program is one of the more cost-effective options, though additional costs for books and uniforms apply.
- Intensive 26-Week Program: The program includes 18 weeks of coursework and a 7-week externship, totaling 800 hours of training.
- Comprehensive Certifications: Students earn certifications in Infection Control, Dental Practice Act, HIPAA compliance, Radiation Safety, Coronal Polishing, and more.
Curriculum and Coursework
Downey Adult School’s program focuses on developing both clinical and administrative skills in dental assisting. Core classes include Infection Control Certification, the California Dental Practice Act, and Dental Radiation Safety. Students will also learn HIPAA compliance, billing, and coding, providing a well-rounded skill set suitable for various roles within dental practices. Additionally, coronal polishing and front office skills are covered, enhancing employability in both clinical and administrative capacities.
Hands-On Training
The program integrates both classroom instruction and lab work, ensuring students gain practical experience in dental procedures. Each student completes a 200-hour externship at an approved dental site, offering a real-world application of the skills learned in class. This externship bridges the gap between classroom learning and professional practice, providing students with essential hands-on experience.
Prerequisites
- Attend a mandatory orientation (in-person or online).
- Basic Life Support certification for CPR and First Aid.
- Access to required books and uniform items (purchased separately).
Certifications Included
Upon completion, students will have earned:
- 8-Hour Infection Control Certification
- California Dental Practice Act Certification
- HIPAA Compliance Certification
- Dental Radiation Safety Certification
- Coronal Polishing Certification
These certifications not only qualify students for immediate employment but also serve as prerequisites for the Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) exam, which students may apply for after gaining six months of work experience post-program.
Class Schedules
Classes are held on weekdays, Monday through Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Online classes are available for certain components, offering some flexibility for students.
Financial Aid and Cost
The program’s tuition is $4,999, not including additional costs for books, uniforms, and certification fees. Students should budget for out-of-pocket expenses such as textbooks, uniforms, CPR certification, and necessary equipment like the Typondont model. Financial aid options are available for those who qualify, helping to offset these costs.
Estimated Out-of-Pocket Expenses
- Textbooks: Approximately $265
- Uniform (including lab coat and shoes): Around $107
- CPR Certification: $59
- Additional supplies: $300
- Total estimated expenses (including course fees): Approximately $6,000 – $6,500
Why Downey Adult School?
Downey Adult School’s Dental Assistant program provides focused, hands-on training at a competitive price, making it an ideal option for students looking to enter the field quickly and affordably. The inclusion of necessary certifications and a structured externship enhances job readiness, although prospective students should consider the additional out-of-pocket expenses and the requirement to attend a mandatory orientation. For those looking for a solid foundation in dental assisting, Downey Adult School delivers practical skills and industry-relevant certifications within an intensive 26-week program.
| Category | Description |
| Cost | $4,999 (additional costs for books, uniforms, and supplies) |
| Program Duration | 26 weeks (18 weeks of classes + 7-week externship) |
| Class Schedules | Monday – Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. |
| Classes Offered | Clinical Dental Assisting, Dental Billing & Coding, Infection Control, California Dental Practice Act, Radiation Safety, HIPAA, Coronal Polishing, Front Office Skills |
| Admission Requirements | Mandatory orientation (in-person or online), Basic Life Support certification, access to books and uniform items |
| Online Classes? | Available for some components |
| Job Placement? | Externship and job placement assistance provided |
| Financial Aid Options | Available for those who qualify |
| Location | 12340 Woodruff Ave, Downey, CA 90241 |
| Phone | (562) 940-6200 |
| [email protected] | |
| Website | https://www.das.edu/dental-assistant/ |