If you’re searching for dental assistant programs in the Los Angeles area with weekend class options, these programs offer flexible schedules to fit a variety of needs. Here’s a quick overview of each:
- American Career College Dental Assisting Program
A 10-month program with a blended format that combines two days per week of on-campus classes, including weekend options, with online coursework. - Dental Career Institute
A 12-month program offering weekday classes on Wednesdays and one Saturday per month for lab and clinical sessions, with home study components available online. - California Institute of Dental Education
A 132-hour program with weekday lectures and hands-on lab and clinical training on weekends, designed to offer practical skills in a shorter timeframe.
Explore the detailed summaries below to learn more about each program’s costs, duration, schedules, locations, certifications, and contact information.
Dental Assistant Class Providers
1. American Career College
The American Career College (ACC) Dental Assisting Program offers a 10-month diploma path with a blended format that combines two days a week of on-campus classes and online learning. For added flexibility, students at the Los Angeles campus can choose weekend classes, making it convenient for those balancing other commitments.
The curriculum covers core areas, such as dental anatomy, infection control, x-ray procedures, restorative and pediatric dentistry, and CPR certification. Students progress through specific learning modules like “Science of Dentistry” and “Oral Surgery/Anesthetics,” which each provide focused, hands-on training. Additionally, the program includes a 180-hour externship at a dental facility, giving students direct experience in a clinical setting and reinforcing their classroom learning.
| Category | Description |
| Cost | Estimated Tuition: $18,390 Total Cost: $21,230 |
| Program Duration | 10 months |
| Class Schedules | 2 days a week (includes weekend option) |
| Online Classes? | Yes |
| Locations | Los Angeles Campus: 4021 Rosewood Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90004 Orange County Campus: 1200 N Magnolia Ave, Anaheim, CA 92801 Ontario Campus: 3130 East Sedona Court, Ontario, CA 91764 |
| Phone | Los Angeles: 323-668-7555 Orange County: 714-763-9066 Ontario: 909-218-3253 |
2. Dental Career Institute
Dental Career Institute offers a Dental Assisting/RDA program that includes weekend classes, allowing students to attend in-person sessions one Saturday per month, in addition to weekday classes on Wednesdays. This structure accommodates those who prefer or require flexible scheduling.
The program combines 289 hours of home study via electronic media with 276 hours of live instruction for lab work, and 266 hours of clinical practice. The curriculum covers essential skills such as chairside assistance, sterilization, radiograph handling, and patient record maintenance. Students participate in hands-on training for key certifications, including Coronal Polishing, Pit and Fissure Sealants, and Radiation Safety, ensuring compliance with California state requirements. Upon completing the required coursework, students receive a certificate in Dental Assisting, equipping them to pursue roles in dental offices across California.
| Category | Description |
| Cost | $13,000 |
| Program Duration | 12 months |
| Class Schedules | Wednesdays and one Saturday per month |
| Online Classes? | Available via “Home Study via Electronic Media” |
| Location | 18377 Beach Blvd Ste 328, Huntington Beach, CA 92648 |
| Phone | (562) 704-2651 |
3. California Institute of Dental Education
The California Institute of Dental Education offers a Dental Assisting program that includes both weekday and weekend classes. Lecturing and teaching sessions are held during weekdays, while laboratory and clinical components primarily occur on weekends. These weekend classes allow students to gain practical, hands-on experience with dental equipment and techniques, a crucial aspect of their training.
The program covers a range of essential dental assisting skills and certifications. Students are trained in radiation safety, coronal polishing, infection control, and orthodontic assisting, among other areas. Each certification course within the program includes specific requirements, such as practical exams and lab work on provided or self-supplied patients.
This structured schedule accommodates busy adults, combining flexible weekday lectures with essential hands-on laboratory work and patient interactions on weekends. Interested individuals can inquire directly with the school for current class availability.
| Category | Description |
| Cost | $2,400 |
| Program Duration | 132 hours |
| Class Schedules | Weekday lectures; weekend lab and clinical |
| Online Classes? | No |
| Location | 3585 Telegraph Rd Ste B, Ventura, CA 93003 |
| Phone | (805) 676-1063 |
Our Recommendation
When choosing a weekend Dental Assisting program, consider your scheduling needs, budget, and preferred learning format. Here’s a quick breakdown of each option to help guide your decision:
American Career College Dental Assisting Program
This 10-month diploma program offers a flexible, blended format with two days of on-campus classes per week (including a weekend option) and online learning, which is ideal if you prefer a structured but hybrid approach. The curriculum spans key areas, from infection control to oral surgery, with specific modules focused on various dental disciplines. Additionally, it includes a 180-hour externship, providing extensive clinical experience. Tuition is $18,390 with an estimated total cost of $21,230.
Dental Career Institute
The 12-month Dental Assisting/RDA program at Dental Career Institute provides flexibility with weekday classes on Wednesdays and one Saturday per month for lab and clinical components. The program combines 289 hours of home study with 276 hours of live instruction and 266 hours of clinical practice. Essential certifications, including Coronal Polishing and Radiation Safety, are covered in this comprehensive program. If you prefer a mix of online home study and in-person lab days, this program may be a fit. The cost is $13,000.
California Institute of Dental Education
This 132-hour program is the shortest and most affordable option at $2,400. It includes weekday lectures and weekend lab and clinical sessions for hands-on training in skills such as radiation safety and coronal polishing. This program is well-suited for those looking for a highly focused and affordable pathway, though it does not offer an online component.
Each program offers unique scheduling and training structures, so consider what works best for your time, budget, and preferred learning style. If you’re seeking tailored recommendations based on your specific needs, we’re here to help. Just share a bit about yourself and your ideal start date, and we’ll match you with programs that fit.