Several qualities make candidates suitable for successful careers as dental assistants. However, more than anything, interested individuals must get started in this field by attending the right training program.
This way, they can develop technical proficiency and work on transferable skills that will serve them well throughout their careers. For this reason, we have curated a list of the best training programs for aspiring dental assistants in Los Angeles, California, below.
All the entries on the list have been chosen because they adhere to a high standard and boast several other highlights, including experienced instructors, wonderful learning facilities, and career services.
How to Become a Dental Assistant in Los Angeles
Individuals looking to become successful dental assistants in Los Angeles must start by attending an accredited training program. The state board specifies that candidates must receive both classroom and on-the-job training.
For this reason, most training programs are structured to offer both types of training, with the on-the-job aspect fulfilled through an externship. Students are also expected to receive Dental Practice and Infection Control training and a life support course.
Before securing employment, candidates are advised to receive the Certified Dental Assistant credential from the Dental Assisting National Board, which will give them more credibility and allow them to continue their education.
Top Dental Assistant Schools in Los Angeles, California
The following are the top training programs for aspiring dental assistants in Los Angeles.
West LA College
Culver City, CA Campus Only
West LA College’s dental assistant training offerings span three different arrangements. The first is the Registered Dental Assistant training program, which offers day and night options. The second is the Orthodontist Assistant training program, held every fall and spring semester. The third arrangement is the continuing education/certification training program for practicing dental assistants.
Tuition
$84 - $359 per UnitContact
(310) 287-4464
Medinarm2@laccd.edu
American Career College
Los Angeles, CA Campus + Online
American Career College also offers a wonderful training program that candidates in the city of Los Angeles can leverage to start their careers the right way. This program includes 10 months of instructions, after which students get to leave with a diploma.
Email: gYeghiazarian@americancareercollege.edu
Tuition
$18,390 per ProgramContact
(877) 832-0790
Email in Bio
Carrington College
Sacramento, CA Campus + Online
Carrington College boasts multiple campuses across the state, offering high-quality dental assisting training. These include Pleasant Hills, Sacramento, San Jose, and Citrus Heights campuses.
Tuition
$24,252 - $26,792 per ProgramContact
(916) 585-7770
San Joaquin Valley College
Visalia, CA Campus + Online
San Joaquin Valley College in Visalia offers one of the most prominent training programs for aspiring dental assistants across the state. The school is known for offering career-readiness training programs across several technical sectors, and this dental assisting program is especially notable for its wonderful environment and hands-on training.
Tuition
$18,976 per YearContact
(866) 544-7898
Foothill College
Los Altos Hills, CA Campus + Online
Located in Los Altos Hills, aspiring dental assistants in Los Angeles may also consider Foothill College. There, they will enjoy learning under dedicated faculty using a specially curated curriculum that has produced several successful candidates.
Tuition
$31 per Quater UnitContact
(650) 949-7643
healthcareerprograms@fhda.edu
Notable Mentions
Other alternatives to consider include:
- Concorde Career College,
- UEI College,
- Orange Coast College,
- Diablo Valley College,
- Palomar College, and
- Pasadena City College.
Explore nearby states for education and training:
Explore detailed steps and the state’s licensing requirements: