Do You Need a Degree to Become a Dental Assistant?

Joe Cockrell

Joe Cockrell

| Update: September 03, 2024

Becoming a dental assistant does not require a college degree. What you do need is proper training through an accredited program, and in most states, some form of certification for specific tasks like operating X-ray equipment. 

UEI College's Dental Assistant Program offers a path to earning your diploma in as few as ten months. The program combines online lectures with hands-on labs and a 170-hour externship in a real dental office, giving you practical experience before you start your job search. 

A career as a dental assistant provides the opportunity to work hands-on in the dental field and help the entire office run smoothly. It's a great career option for anyone who enjoys working with people, is calm and detail-oriented, and is eager to learn. The role covers a range of dental assistant job duties, from preparing patients and sterilizing equipment to assisting the dentist with procedures like x-rays. Many people get nervous visiting the dentist's office, so it's important for each employee to be welcoming, professional, and knowledgeable. If making people smile is something that appeals to you, the process to begin may be easier than you think. 

How Long Does It Take to Become a Dental Assistant?

One of the things that makes becoming a dental assistant so appealing is it can be achieved in less than a year. In as few as ten months, you can complete your training, including labs with real dental equipment and a 170-hour externship in an actual dental office. You'll gain experience working hands-on with patients and dentists before you begin your job search. 

What Are the Requirements to Become a Dental Assistant?

There are several steps to becoming a dental assistant. While the actual requirements may vary from state to state, the process is generally the same: 

Step #1: High School Diploma 

Obtain your high school diploma or GED. Both are accepted for enrollment in UEI College's Dental Assistant Program. 

Step #2: Training 

Complete your training. Some states allow dental assistants to learn entirely on the job. Texas and Alabama, for example, have no formal education requirements for basic dental assisting duties. But most employers prefer to hire candidates who have completed a training program, and some tasks, like operating dental X-ray machines, cannot be performed without training through an accredited program. You can look up your state's specific requirements at the DANB website. It's also worth knowing that even in states where a license isn't required, completing a training program makes you more competitive. Learn more about dental assistant licensing requirements by state. 

Step #3: Externship 

Complete an externship. On-the-job training is where you put your skills to the test. At UEI College, we'll place you with a dental office where you can practice your skills and gain new ones before beginning your job search. 

Step #4: Experience 

Your externship counts as job experience on your resume, so when you begin applying for open positions, you can start with real dental office hours already behind you. 

UEI College's Dental Assistant Program

If you've ever considered stepping into the dental field but didn't know where to begin, we can help. The Dental Assistant Program at UEI College will give you all the training you need to earn your dental assistant diploma in as few as ten months. We offer ongoing enrollment with new courses beginning each month. 

Our courses include a combination of online learning and hands-on in-person labs. Students can attend lectures and complete assignments from anywhere through our online learning system, then practice their skills in person twice a week in either morning or evening classes. At the end of your courses, we'll help you find a 170-hour externship in a real dental office to complete your training, working alongside those doing the job. 

UEI College's Dental Assistant program will teach you clinical, radiographic, and preventative dentistry procedures. Our courses cover topics that include: 

  • Dental Science and Medical Emergencies 
  • Dental Anatomy and Physiology 
  • Radiography 
  • Dental Materials 
  • Preventative Dentistry 
  • Dental Specialties 
  • Prosthodontics and Administrative Assisting 

Graduates are prepared to pursue entry-level positions such as Dental Assistant, Oral Surgery Assistant, Orthodontic Assistant, and Surgical Dental Assistant. 

Ready to take the next step? Contact us to learn more about enrollment, upcoming start dates, and how to get started with the Dental Assistant Program at UEI College. You can also learn more about how to become a dental assistant with our step-by-step guide. 

Joe Cockrell

Joe Cockrell

Joseph Cockrell is a seasoned strategic communications leader with over 25 years of experience, coupled with a distinguished graduate-level education. A former professional journalist, Joseph excels in media relations, crisis communications, corporate reputation management, strategic communications planning, and marketing. Renowned for his proficiency as an expert storyteller, Joseph possesses a unique ability to craft compelling written and video content of the highest caliber. With an extensive background in navigating complex communication landscapes, he brings unparalleled insight and skill to elevate brands and effectively convey impactful narratives.

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