Delaware is an amazing state for entering a technical profession. Individuals with an affinity for healthcare, particularly dentistry, would do well to consider a career in dental assisting to get a feel for the field.
Naturally, preparation is key to success in any endeavor. To ensure that readers of this page are as well-prepared as possible, we provide a breakdown below of a typical journey to becoming a dental assistant in Delaware.
We discuss educational considerations, licensing and certification standards, and specific programs. We also analyze the possible yearly returns for dental assistants in Delaware.
How to Become a Dental Assistant in Delaware
The guide below shows how to become a thriving medical assistant in Delaware.
Step One: Basic Education & Transferable Skills
Dental assistants in Delaware are employed by institutions that expect candidates to have a basic high school diploma. Those who don’t may take the GED test instead.
Transferable skills, such as organizational acumen, dexterity, attention to detail, and interpersonal skills, are all absolutely important to an aspiring dental assistant.
Step Two: Academic Training & Practical Experience
Prospective dental assistants need two broad kinds of education to succeed on the job: foundational academic education and supervised practical experience.
- Academic Education - Academic education is usually the starting point and the most popular way to build knowledge of dental assisting. Candidates learn in a structured environment and develop both classroom and laboratory skills.
A lot of training programs will also give students a chance to study conveniently through online or hybrid programs.
- Practical Experience: Practical experience is typically obtained through laboratory sessions. However, candidates must continue to improve this through supervised practice in the real world.
Students who attend programs that do not mandate such training can do so on their own through volunteer work.
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Licensure & Certification Requirements
In Delaware, dental assistant certification is only compulsory in special cases like dental radiation and nitrous oxide administration. Although it can be very beneficial for general-purpose dental assistants, it is largely optional.
The Dental Assisting National Board offers several certification categories, depending on preference. Of course, all credentials require professional examination and continuous renewal to ensure that candidates keep up with advancements in the field.
Some popular certifications to go with include the Certified Dental Assistant, Certified Preventive Functions Dental Assistant, Certified Restorative Functions Dental Assistant, and Certified Orthodontic Assistant credentials.
The DANB also offers a special credential for radiology professionals:tion ath and safety credential, which requires examination.
Top Dental Assistant Schools in Delaware
Residents of Delaware may attend any of the top-tier programs below for their comprehensive education.
Delcastle Technical High School
Wilmington, DE Campus Only
Delcastle Technical High School offers a comprehensive dental assistant program. Students receive hands-on training in a fully operational dental clinic and gain practical experience under the supervision of qualified professionals.
Tuition
FreeContact
(302) 995-8000
Delaware Technical Community College
Online, DE Online Only
At Delaware Technical Community College, residents anywhere in Delaware can opt for a Clinical Dental Assistant program offered through a partnership with ed2go.
Tuition
$2,995 per ProgramContact
(855) 520-6806
Sussex Tech
Georgetown, DE Campus + Online
Lastly, Sussex Tech offers a flexible dental assistant training program that lasts 15 weeks and combines in-person classes with online lectures and laboratory sessions. This program is a great option for those eager to start their careers quickly.
Tuition
Call for DetailsContact
(302) 856-9035
office@sussexvt.k12.de.us
Explore dental assistant schools in Delaware by city:
Salary & Career Outlook
The majority of dental assistants in Delaware will begin their careers with an annual average salary of around $53,029 to $69,014, which are the figures for the low-level and median earners, respectively. Ultimately, by optimizing responsible factors, they can improve their yearly earnings to around $89,817.
The “responsible factors” are varied and can include experience, location, place of work, and professional credentials. The specific location where a dental assistant works in the state will also greatly influence their home.
Currently, New Castle is the highest-paying destination for dental assistants in Delaware, with an annual average salary of around $90,402. Wilmington (with an annual average salary of $72,631), Middletown (with an annual average salary of $69,228), and Bear (with an annual average salary of $66,784) are also prominent.
Dental assistants in Smyrna take home around $66,185 in average salary at the end of every year.