How Long Does It Take to Become a Dental Assistant?
| Update: April 22, 2026
Becoming a Dental Assistant can take as few as 10 months. The Dental Assistant Program at UEI College consists of 8 modules, including a 170-hour externship in a real dental office. If you're looking to start a career in the dental field without a four-year degree, dental assisting is one of the faster paths available.
A Dental Assistant is a person who helps keep things running smoothly in a dental office. They may work in the front of the office, greeting patients, scheduling appointments, and preparing or filing records. Or they may work in the back office, preparing patients for their exam, assisting chairside with the procedure, and sterilizing equipment and tools. Dental Assistants may work in a dentist's office, orthodontist's office, pediatric dental office, or even with an oral surgeon.
How Long Does a Dental Assistant Program Take to Complete?
The Dental Assistant Program at UEI College can be completed in as few as 10 months. The program consists of 8 modules and includes a combination of online learning, live online lectures, and in-person, hands-on labs to practice skills using industry-standard equipment. Our courses are designed to be flexible, with day and evening classes available.
Do You Need a High School Diploma to Become a Dental Assistant?
A high school diploma or equivalent is typically required to enroll in a Dental Assistant program.
Can You Become a Dental Assistant Without a Degree?
Yes. Dental Assistants do not need a two- or four-year college degree. Completing a focused training program like the Dental Assistant Program at UEI College is a path into this career. The program results in a diploma and can be completed in as few as 10 months.
What Does a Day in the Life of a Dental Assistant Look Like?
A day in the life of a Dental Assistant is challenging and fast-paced. Your duties may differ depending on the type of dental office you work in or the size of the office, but a dental assistant may be responsible for:
- Reviewing the day's schedule and having patient records ready for the dentist
- Preparing tools and equipment for the day's exams and ensuring proper sterilization
- Stocking equipment and ensuring enough inventory
- Greeting patients
- Assisting with x-rays and preparing patients for their exam
- Acting as an extra set of hands during an exam as instructed by the dentist
- Ensuring the office is clean and ready for the next appointment
A Dental Assistant's job is to ensure the office is running smoothly. They may be the first to make patients feel comfortable when they enter the office. A Dental Assistant may also be asked to share follow-up instructions with a patient and teach about proper oral hygiene. For a closer look at the full scope of the role, see our overview of dental assistant job duties.
Consider Enrolling at UEI College To Become a Dental Assistant
UEI College offers smaller class sizes, hands-on labs, tutoring, and peer mentors, all designed to support you through your training. If you have a passion for making people smile and a desire to work in the dental field, the Dental Assistant Program may be a good fit for you. Give us a call today to take a tour of our dental assistant laboratories and gain a better understanding of exactly what our school is like.
Financial aid is available for those who qualify.
Learn How to Become a Dental Assistant in California!
Enroll in UEI College's Dental Assistant Program.
