Dental Assistant Program
The North Orange County ROP Dental Assisting Program offers a 6-7 month training pathway to prepare students for careers as dental assistants. This program includes both in-person and online classes and equips students with hands-on skills required for dental settings, culminating in certifications aligned with California’s dental board standards.
Program Structure and Schedule
This program combines weekly in-person classes with online coursework. Classes meet Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM at the Career Training Center in Anaheim, CA, with an additional 4 hours of online work each week. Following the classroom portion, students complete a 5-week externship to gain real-world experience in a dental office, ensuring they’re job-ready upon graduation.
Key Skills and Training
Students in this program develop essential skills needed for dental assisting:
- Chairside Assistance: Training in supporting dentists during exams, preparing materials, and managing instruments.
- Radiography: Gaining knowledge of dental x-ray safety, techniques, and proper equipment usage.
- Administrative Tasks: Learning basics of dental front office tasks, including patient scheduling and reception duties.
This dual focus on clinical and administrative skills provides a well-rounded education that prepares students for various roles within dental practices.
Certifications
Upon successful completion, students earn multiple certifications recognized by the California Dental Board, including:
- Dental X-Ray Certification
- 8-Hour Infection Control Certification
- 2-Hour Dental Practice Act Certification
- CPR Certification through the American Heart Association
These certifications increase job competitiveness and fulfill requirements for entry-level dental assisting positions in California.
Prerequisites
Before beginning the program, students need to meet the following prerequisites:
- Basic computer skills (Google & Microsoft applications)
- AHA BLS CPR Card: Must be current throughout the program
Career Opportunities
Graduates are equipped to pursue entry-level roles such as:
- Dental Assistant
- Dental Front Office Staff
- Dental Receptionist
The program also offers job placement assistance through North Orange County ROP’s career services.
Financial Information
The total cost of the program is $4,100, with an initial payment of $500 due before the course start date. The remainder can be paid in installments. The program includes textbooks and online resources, but students need to supply their own scrubs.
Why Choose North Orange County ROP?
The North Orange County ROP Dental Assisting Program offers hands-on training with flexible online and evening class options, making it suitable for working adults. The program’s affordable cost, payment plan, and industry-recognized certifications make it a practical choice. However, students must budget for scrubs, and courses may be postponed if enrollment minimums aren’t met.
| Category | Description |
| Cost | $4,100 |
| Program Duration | 6-7 months, including externship |
| Class Schedules | Tuesday and Thursday, 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM, plus 4 hours online per week |
| Classes Offered | Dental Assisting, Dental X-Ray, Infection Control, Dental Practice Act, CPR |
| Admission Requirements | Basic computer skills, current AHA BLS CPR card |
| Online Classes? | Yes, blended format |
| Job Placement? | Yes, career assistance available |
| Financial Aid Options | Payment plans available |
| Location | 385 North Muller Street, Anaheim, CA 92801 |
| Phone | (714) 502-5904 |
| [email protected] | |
| Website | https://adults.nocrop.org/dental-assistant-program/ |