Dental Assistant Schools in Connecticut

Preparation is crucial for launching a career as a dental assistant in Connecticut. Candidates need to understand the full scope of the profession and the steps required to meet educational, licensing, and certification specifications.

It also helps to have a clear understanding of the top training programs in the state to consider for several award and degree types, as well as salary projections based on various points of a dental assistant career.

Thankfully for readers of this page, we explore all of these issues in more comprehensive detail below.

How to Become a Dental Assistant in Connecticut

The following is a step-by-step guide to launching a thriving dental assistant career in Connecticut.

Classroom Education

Typical dental assistant training starts with classroom education. Although some dental establishments in Connecticut can offer direct on-the-job training, the most popular approach and most effective by far is to begin with a foundational understanding of classroom concepts.

Candidates can secure admission into either a certificate or associate degree program and have an opportunity for such educational arrangements.

Real-World Education

After classroom training, candidates must consolidate their knowledge by practicing what they have been taught. Many people can get some experience by volunteering in dental establishments across the state.

Some training programs will also mandate extensive and practical training as part of the curriculum.

Securing Job Placement

After classroom training and real-world experience, aspiring dental assistants must gain the confidence needed to secure job placement. As long as they are properly trained, they can work in any dental establishment in Connecticut.

Advanced Degrees

The educational journey of a dental assistant never really ends. The field continues to advance, and candidates may be expected to take on more complex duties that necessitate continuing education.

Additionally, those who want to keep moving up in dental health may pursue advanced degree programs in dental hygiene or related fields.

Explore trades with similar paths:

• How to become a chef in Connecticut

Licensure & Certification Requirements

There are several possible credentials and certifications to pursue a dental assistant in Connecticut. These include general certifications like the Registered Dental Assistant and Certified Dental Assistant credentials.

Other options include specialty credentials like the Certified Preventive Functions Dental Assistant and the Certified Restorative Functions Dental Assistant credential. It should be said, though, that state laws do not mandate certification for general dental assistants.

Candidates only pursue one for professional benefits. All credentials require professional examination before they can be earned.

Many accredited training programs prepare students for certification exams. However, to maintain their certification status, certified professionals must also ensure they meet renewal requirements.

Top Dental Assistant Schools in Connecticut

The schools below are notable for high-quality dental assistant programs in Connecticut.

Explore dental assistant schools in Connecticut by city:

• Dental assistant schools in Bridgeport

Salary & Career Outlook

Dental assistants in Connecticut may start their careers with an annual average salary of $63,462 and ultimately earn around $97,610 at the end of every year. However, the majority of professionals in this field will manage an annual average salary of $78,705, which is good enough to be in the median category.

Factors like experience and location are key when it comes to influencing these figures, as are criteria like experience and work environment. Professionals who would like to work in favorable locations may consider New Haven, where dental assistants earn the highest average salary in Connecticut at a figure of around $81,982 per year.

They may also choose either Stamford or Bridgeport, with annual average salaries of $81,479 and $81,053, respectively. Dental assistants in Hartford earn an average annual salary of $79,960.

According to the BLS, the employment rate for dental assistants in Connecticut and across the country will increase by 10% annually for the next ten years.