Dental assistant schooling is worth looking into if you’re considering a rewarding healthcare career where you can work with people, support dentists, and make a real difference in the lives of patients. People choose this growing field because it offers hands-on work, opportunities for growth, and entry into the dental industry with relatively short training. Whether you’re fresh out of high school or looking for a career change, dental assistant schooling in Michigan can help you get started.
In this blog post, we’ll explore schooling for future dental assistants, what to expect during your education, and how Dorsey College can help prepare you for a fulfilling new role in dental care.
What Does a Dental Assistant Do?
Dental assistants play a vital role in the smooth operation of a dental office. They work closely with dentists and hygienists, providing both clinical and administrative support. Some of their typical responsibilities include:
- Preparing treatment rooms and sterilizing instruments
- Assisting the dentist during procedures
- Taking and developing dental x-rays
- Educating patients on oral hygiene
- Scheduling appointments and managing patient records
Because they wear many hats, dental assistants must be well-organized, people-oriented, and comfortable working in a fast-paced clinical setting. It’s a career that blends patient care, technology, and teamwork, making every day different and exciting.
Benefits of Becoming a Dental Assistant
Choosing a career as a dental assistant comes with several advantages:
- Quick Entry into the Workforce: Unlike other healthcare roles that require years of schooling, dental assistant schooling can often be completed in a year or less.
- Job Stability: According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of dental assistants is projected to grow 8% from 2023 to 2033, faster than the national average for other career paths. 1
- Flexible Work Settings: Dental assistants can work in private dental offices, specialty practices (like orthodontics or oral surgery), public health clinics, or even dental schools.
- Personal Fulfillment: Helping patients improve their oral health can be incredibly rewarding. Healthy teeth and gums lead to increased confidence, less pain, and overall improvement of health for patients.
Career Opportunities Post-Education
Graduates of dental assisting programs in Michigan may qualify for roles such as:
- Dental Assistant
- Orthodontic Assistant
- Oral Surgery Assistant
- Pediatric Dental Assistant
- Dental Office Coordinator
Many dental assistants continue to grow in the field by gaining certifications, such as the CDA (Certified Dental Assistant), or even pursuing expanded functions and licensure, depending on state regulations.
Understanding Dental Assistant Schooling
Before you can launch your career, you’ll need to complete proper training. So, what does schooling for aspiring dental assistants look like and how can you get started?
- Requirements: To enroll in a dental assistant program in Michigan, most schools require:
- A high school diploma or GED
- Completion of an admissions interview or orientation
- Some programs may require proof of vaccinations or background checks
- Coursework Overview: The curriculum in a dental assisting program should set you up for success by providing both theoretical knowledge and hands-on skills. Common study topics include:
- Dental anatomy and terminology
- Chairside assisting techniques
- Dental materials and instrument use
- Infection control and sterilization
- Dental radiography (x-rays)
- Office administration
- Record keeping
- Emergency procedures
- Training Options: When exploring what schools offer dental assisting programs, it’s important to choose one that fits your needs. Some schools offer traditional in-person classes, while others may provide hybrid or online components.
Cost of Dental Education and Funding Options
Affordability is a big consideration when exploring schooling for dental assistants. The good news is that dental assisting programs tend to be more cost-effective than many other healthcare training programs.
While tuition costs can vary by campus and program, some programs offer several financial aid options for those who qualify.
Tips for Thriving in a Dental Assistant Program
Once you begin your dental assistant schooling, you’ll want to make the most of your education. Here are a few tips to help you succeed:
- Stay Organized: Balancing classes, labs, and studying can be a lot. Use a planner or digital calendar to stay on track.
- Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to ask instructors for clarification. They’re there to help you succeed.
- Practice, Practice, Practice: Repetition builds confidence. Spend time in the lab perfecting your techniques.
- Be Professional: Treat your training like a job. Show up on time, be respectful, and dress appropriately—especially during externships.
- Network with Peers and Instructors: Building connections now can lead to job leads and mentorship opportunities down the road.
If you are looking for a dental assisting program in Michigan, consider Dorsey College. With a comprehensive program that combines quality education with practical training, supportive instructors, and career services assistance. With multiple campus locations in Michigan, our goal is to make dental assistant training accessible for those throughout Metro Detroit.
If you’re ready to explore this exciting career path, contact us today to learn more about our dental assistant program and how to get started.
NOTE: The Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs and the Michigan Board of Dentistry are responsible for the licensing of individuals who want to practice dentistry, dental hygiene and advanced levels of dental assisting. Students attending a dental assisting program offered by a private college that is not accredited by the American Dental Association are not eligible for licensure in the State of Michigan. Dorsey College is classified as a private college and is not accredited by the American Dental Association’s Commission on Dental Accreditation; graduates of this program are not eligible for licensure as a Registered Dental Assistant in Michigan. However, graduates of this program may challenge a certification exam offered by the Dental Assisting National Board, Inc. after completing 3,500 hours of dental work experience. Dorsey’s Dental Assistant Program includes the opportunity to sit for the Radiation Health and Safety (RHS) and the Infection Control (ICE) certification exams, which are two components of the Dental Assisting National Board (“DANB”) Certified Dental Assistant (“CDA”) exam. Graduates of this program may complete the third exam component necessary for DANB’s CDA credential, which is challenged after completing “a minimum of 3,500 hours’ work experience as a dental assistant, accrued over a period of at least two years (24 months, if employed fulltime) to a maximum of four years (48 months, if employed part-time) which employment must be verified by a licensed dentist.”
