What do I need to do to become a dental assistance? What are some good schools? I only have a GED...?

Sorry, I know I just asked a similar question... I needed to re-word it a little..





I'm 19, I only have a G.E.D.(I was Homeschooled)





I want to become a dental assistant, not a dentist...





Is there any--legitiment--schools or programs I can join, that don't require a bachelors degree? And are not those fake quick career techincial programs or colleges?(Those never WORK)





If, not what do I need to do? Can I just take classes at my local community college? Go to a university? IS there universities that accept people with G.E.Ds? Will it necessary to have or to get a bachelors degree. Even if it's just for Dental Assistance?





Basically, what do I need, and how long will it take. For me to become a Dential Assistance, with what I have(a G.E.D) And how can I ensure I will become hired? What do dentists look for in Assistants?





ANY INFO YOU CAN GIVE ME HELPS!!!!

What do I need to do to become a dental assistance? What are some good schools? I only have a GED...?
Many dental assistants in many states can be dentist trained or self trained through books, while receiving on the job training. Don't knock the trade school approach. If you have half a brain (which many don't) you can learn the basics at the school and use your other talents while at work (one of my main assistants is trade school educated, but has a great sense of schedule flow. You'll find some dentists not interested in that, but many that appreciate a dental assistant that can anticipate situations. (a learned skill). Don't knock home schooling (which you didn't) I'm homeschooling my 14 year old all while working.... you can go far!!
Reply:you can go to any school / university with a GED. they are treated like a HS diploma
Reply:You can apply to a vocational school which offers a Dental Assisting program.


Some colleges have programs as well.


It depends on the state you live in regarding the schooling and certifications needed to work as a Dental Assistant.


And Yes, a GED is acceptable, and so is your background of being Homeschooled.





I live in Virginia and most often Dental Assistants do go to the Vocational Schools in order to become certified.





I have been a Dental Assistant for 24 years and did not go to a Dental Assisting program, instead I did on the job training through a high school program.


However, over the years, I have attended College Courses related to my field, often times paid for by my employers.





In Virginia, it's not necessary to have a certificate from an accredited school to work as a Dental Assistant.


It's also not required to be a Certified or Registered Dental Assistant here.


X-ray Certification is most definitely required.





I do believe however, that an acredited dental assisting program will give you the best chances of being fully prepared to work in the field and be successful in your desired career.





Consider interviewing some local Dentists and their Assistants to get a better idea of the best course of action.


Some Doctors are very willing to train a person with true desire and interest in their own offices.





If you find that you really enjoy Dentistry and Dental Assisting, you might want to consider Dental Hygiene.


You would need to go to college and get a Degree but the pay is significantly higher than for a Dental Assistant.





Good Luck!
Reply:This could depend on where you live. In some areas you can be trained in the dental office to be an assistant. I believe in most areas you will still have to get an x-ray certification. This is a short course on taking x-rays. Could be as little as two days, with a written exam and a practical exam. Other courses are available. If you live near a large city there should be a school that offers a dental assisting certification. A certificate in dental assisting usually takes between 6-12 months. These schools usually offer financial aid and some offer job placement assistance. But don't guarantee a job. Having at least a GED should get you accepted into the school


Dentists are looking for outgoing, well groomed, self starter people that are good at multitasking, working independantly, and working under pressure. You have very good people skills, and have a very good work ethic. If the dentist cannot count on you to be at work you will not have a job for very long. They are depending on you to be there EVERYDAY. Go to a local dental office and let them know you are interested in being a dental assistant, and ask if you could observe for 2-3 hours on another day. Alot of offices wouldn't have a problem with that as long as you are a neatly grommed and a clean person. I.e. dress the part.

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