Top Dental Assistant Schools in Portland, Oregon

Portland, Oregon, is an amazing destination for working as a dental assistant. The city, like everywhere else across the country, is expected to increase its demand for dental assistants by significant proportions over the next 10 years.

Professionals here also manage an impressive annual average salary with several opportunities for career growth. And, of course, just as important is the fact that there are several incredible programs that candidates may enroll in to start their careers on a favorable path.

The guide on this page analyzes all of these training destinations and explains to students why they are so highly regarded.

How to Become a Dental Assistant in Portland

Dental assistants in Portland and across Oregon typically choose to become certified by the Dental Assisting National Board to improve the scope of their functions and their credibility. However, interested individuals are expected to graduate from an accredited training program before they can pursue certification.

A high school diploma or a GED is typically required for admission into an accredited training program. However, students can also choose their desired program and focus on either a certificate or an associate degree.

Candidates often require real-world experience through an internship or externship before graduating from a training program to be as confident as possible when they secure employment.

Top Dental Assistant Schools in Portland, Oregon

The following institutions offer amazing programs for future dental assistants in Portland.

#Oregon

Portland Community College

Portland, OR Campus Only

Portland Community College offers a dental assistant training program with an on-site community clinic where candidates can practice their real-world skills. The school allows students to complete their education, immediately pursue certification, and secure employment.

Tuition

$133 - $278 per Credit

Contact

(971) 722-4035
advising@pcc.edu

#Oregon

Chemeketa Community College

Salem, OR Campus Only

The dental assistant training program at Chemeketa Community College is another one in the state that stands out for its comprehensiveness and practical education. As mentioned on the program website, the objective of this program is to prepare students for entry-level employment in any work environment.

Tuition

$104 - $275 per Credit

Contact

(503) 399-5058
getstarted@chemeketa.edu

#Oregon

Lane Community College

Eugene, OR Campus + Online

As a student of the dental assistant program at Lane Community College, I can complete the entire coursework in just one year and leave with a certificate. More importantly, graduates will also have an extensive understanding of all the key principles needed to survive and thrive as dental assistants in an actual work environment.

Tuition

$144 - $335 per Credit

Contact

(541) 463-5678
admissions@lanecc.edu

#Oregon

Linn Benton Community College

Albany, OR Campus Only

At Linn Benton Community College, interested individuals can apply for a dental assistant program that helps them gain clinical and expanded functions experience in various dental clinics in the community. The program offers a one-year certificate with possible enrollment into other advanced programs.

Tuition

$155 - $408 per Credit

Contact

(541) 917-4999

#Oregon

Umpqua Community College

Roseburg, OR Campus Only

Umpqua Community College is another well-rated institution in the state with a one-year certificate program for prospective dental assistants. This program is also accredited and boasts state-of-the-art dental laboratories, career readiness preparation, and 300 hours of hands-on experience provided for students in a local dental office.

Tuition

$120 per Credit

Contact

(541) 440-4600
dental@umpqua.edu

#Oregon

Clackamas Community College

Milwaukie, OR Campus Only

Lastly, Clackamas Community College offers a dental assistant certificate program with 54 credits. This program can be completed in one year and offers financial aid to candidates.