Dental Assistant Program
UEI College’s Dental Assisting Program offers a 10-month curriculum across multiple campuses in the Los Angeles area. The program is a hybrid model with online and in-person classes, preparing students for both clinical and administrative roles in dental settings. Hands-on training and an externship provide practical experience to help students gain the skills they need.
Program Overview
The UEI Dental Assisting Program trains students in essential areas of dental care, such as chairside assisting, radiography, and preventative dentistry. In addition to these clinical skills, students also learn administrative tasks, including patient scheduling and record-keeping. The curriculum is a balanced mix of theoretical learning and hands-on practice to ensure students are well-prepared for the workforce.
Hands-On Experience and Externship
One of the standout features of the program is its 170-hour externship, which places students in a real-world dental office environment. This externship gives students the chance to practice their skills under supervision and gain experience assisting with procedures such as fillings, cleanings, and extractions. By the end of the program, students will be able to confidently transition into dental clinics and offices.
Skills You’ll Gain
Throughout the program, students will build competencies in:
- Sterilizing and Preparing Dental Instruments
- Assisting Dentists with Procedures such as cleanings, extractions, and fillings
- Radiographic Techniques to capture and develop dental x-rays
- Patient Record Management for scheduling and updating medical records
- Preventative Dentistry Education to help patients maintain good oral hygiene
These skills provide a solid foundation for both back-office and front-office roles in a dental practice.
Course Structure and Schedule
The program is designed to be completed in 10 months with classes available in a hybrid format that includes both online and in-person learning. The flexibility of the schedule makes it suitable for students with other commitments. The curriculum is structured into specific courses, including topics like Chairside Assisting, Dental Materials, Radiography, and Preventative Dentistry.
Prerequisites
To participate in the program, students are encouraged to confirm basic computer knowledge and are required to have:
- A valid American Heart Association Basic Life Support (AHA BLS) CPR card, which must remain current throughout the course.
Financial Aid and Enrollment
UEI College offers financial aid options for those who qualify, including grants, loans, and scholarships. Financial aid advisors at each campus assist students with applications and planning. Veterans and military personnel may also qualify for additional support.
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the program are well-equipped to seek entry-level positions, including:
- Dental Assistant
- Oral Surgery Assistant
- Orthodontic Assistant
- Registered Dental Assistant
Positions can be found in dental offices, hospital dental departments, and with dental supply manufacturers, making this program versatile for a variety of career paths.
Why Choose UEI College?
UEI College’s Dental Assisting Program offers a practical pathway into a dental career with an efficient 10-month timeframe and a combination of online and in-person training. The 170-hour externship and accessible financial aid options make it appealing for students seeking hands-on experience and career readiness. However, those needing flexible schedules should consider that the program does require consistent attendance at both online and in-person sessions. Overall, UEI provides a supportive and career-focused approach to entering the dental field.
| Category | Description |
| Cost | Not specified |
| Program Duration | 10 months |
| Class Schedules | Hybrid (online and in-person) |
| Classes Offered | Dental Assisting |
| Admission Requirements | Basic computer skills; valid American Heart Association BLS CPR card |
| Online Classes? | Yes, available in hybrid format |
| Job Placement? | Yes, assistance provided |
| Financial Aid Options | Available for those who qualify |
| Locations | Garden Grove Campus: 10870 Katella Ave., Garden Grove, CA 92840 Gardena Campus: 661 W. Redondo Beach Blvd., Gardena, CA 90247 Huntington Park Campus: 6055 Pacific Blvd., Huntington Park, CA 90255 Ontario Campus: 4730 Ontario Mills Pkwy., Ontario, CA 91764 Reseda Campus: 18040 Sherman Way, Reseda, CA 91335 Riverside Campus: 1860 University Ave., Riverside, CA 92507 West Covina Campus: 339 N. Azusa Ave., West Covina, CA 91791 |
| Phone Numbers | Garden Grove Campus: (657) 284-1400 Gardena Campus: (424) 286-9990 Huntington Park Campus: (323) 457-5879 Ontario Campus: (909) 581-9756 Reseda Campus: (818) 650-1800 Riverside Campus: (951) 394-0588 West Covina Campus: (626) 988-6090 |
| Not specified | |
| Website | https://www.uei.edu/trade-school-programs/dental-assistant/ |