Dental Assistant Schools in Rhode Island

Administrative duties will always be part of the job description for dental assistants. However, professionals in the field are also expected to provide vital clinical support for dentists.

The state of Rhode Island has no shortage of openings for professionals in this field. However, candidates must undergo certain steps and meet specific requirements before they can secure employment.

After employment, candidates are also expected to continue to improve their careers by taking advantage of opportunities offered through certification and professional networking.

Below, we analyze the various ways in which Rhode Island residents can meet all of these requirements and thrive on the job.

How to Become a Dental Assistant in Rhode Island

Residents of Rhode Island can acquire extensive dental assisting training at any of the following institutions:

Choosing a Training Program

Prospective dental assistants are advised to attend an accredited training program for several reasons. One reason is that accreditation equals significant educational quality, which schools and programs cannot achieve without it.

Additionally, the best certifying bodies across the country typically require certification for candidates who have graduated from an accredited program. In addition to accreditation, candidates are expected to consider the specific track of the program they choose to apply for.

One of the most popular tracks is the certificate track, which candidates can complete in a few months or a year of education. Another common track is the associate degree track, which allows candidates to earn an Associate of Applied Science degree after a few years of training.

Building Real-World Experience

Real-world experience is critical to becoming a successful dental assistant. Candidates will have a strong foundation to build upon after completing an academic training program. Still, they will have to work in an actual environment to be as confident as possible.

Completing an externship and clinical practicum is the most common approach to gaining real-world experience as a prospective dental assistant.

Employment & Career Advancement

After considering the licensing and certification requirements, candidates with the right level of training may secure employment as dental assistants in Rhode Island. They may also continue to improve their careers through continuing education or by pursuing an advanced degree.

A bachelor’s degree in dental hygiene is a common choice among many candidates.

Explore trades with similar paths:

• How to become a medical assistant in Rhode Island

Licensure & Certification Requirements

The Rhode Island Board of Examiners does not have a specific license for dental assistants. However, candidates in the state may choose to pursue certification from the Dental Assisting National Board.

This typically allows them to perform more advanced duties, enjoy credibility, and access other resources that may significantly boost their careers. These credentials include the general Certified Dental Assistant credential and specialty credentials in Infection Control, Radiology, and Nitrous Oxide Administration.

Top Dental Assistant Schools in Rhode Island

The entries below are among the best places to receive dental assistant training in Rhode Island.

Explore dental assistant schools in Rhode Island by city:

• Dental assistant schools in Providence

Salary & Career Outlook

Data revealed from a survey of dental assistants in Rhode Island indicate that professionals in this field can be grouped into three broad categories, depending on their annual earnings. In the first category, we find the annual average salary of $62,457 for the bottom earners.

The top 10% of dental assistants in the second category have an annual average salary as high as $98,232. Lastly, in the third and most popular category, dental assistants in the median category manage an annual average salary of $78,328.

Concerning location – which is one of the most important factors that influence yearly returns for dental assistants – we have the most favorable places in Rhode Island as follows:

• Middletown, where dental assistants make an annual average salary of $86,612;
• Cumberland, with an annual average salary of $81,884;
• Providence, with an annual average salary of $78,683 and
• Westerly, with an annual average salary of $77,084.

Other factors that candidates may want to consider are experience, credentials, work environment, and special focus.