If you’re interested in starting a career in the prestigious industry of healthcare without spending thousands of years on schooling, pursuing a career in dental assistance might be the best fit for you.

Wondering how you can start your career in dental assistance without a degree? Well, we’ve got all the answers you need.

Getting a dental assistant certificate is one of the best ways to kickstart a career in this rewarding field, and in this article, we will tell you the benefits of obtaining one.

So, let’s get right into it.

dental assistant apprenticeship

What is a Dental Assistant Certificate?

A dental assistant certificate is a specialized program that equips individuals with the necessary skills and knowledge to support dentists and dental hygienists in a clinical setting.

It can be called a comprehensive crash course that covers various aspects of dental assistance, from chairside procedures and patient care to administrative tasks within a dental office.

This certification program typically delves into dental terminology, sterilization techniques, patient interaction, radiography, and even some basic lab work.

Read: Dental Assistant Online Programs

Dental Assistant Certificate vs Degree

A dental assistant certificate and a degree have several differences, especially when it comes to speed and cost-effectiveness.

Faster:

Opting for a dental assistant certificate is the fastest way to enter the dental field. Typically completed within a year or even less, these programs focus on the essentials, providing a quicker pathway to starting your career.

On the flip side, pursuing a degree, such as an associate’s degree in dental assisting, usually takes a minimum of two years or more. Degrees often involve a broader range of coursework beyond the immediate hands-on skills required for the role.

Affordable:

Regarding affordability, dental assistant certificate programs often win the race. These programs tend to have cheaper tuition costs compared to pursuing a degree, making them more accessible for many individuals.

Degrees involve more comprehensive coursework, which often means higher tuition fees.

So if you’re looking for a quicker, more cost-effective way to get started in the dental field, a dental assistant certificate might be the ideal choice.

Benefits of a Dental Assistant Certificate

A dental assistant certificate has a lot of benefits, setting the stage for a rewarding career in dental care.

If you’re still doubtful about whether getting a certification is the best path for you, here are a few benefits you can consider:

Respect:

Holding a dental assistant certificate brings respect within the industry. It highlights your dedication and expertise in the field, earning recognition from employers and colleagues for your specialized knowledge and skills.

Nationally-Recognized:

A certificate from an accredited program carries national recognition. This accreditation assures employers that you’ve received standardized, quality education and training, boosting your credibility and employability across various dental practices.

Upward Mobility:

A certification is like a stepping stone for career advancement. With a dental assistant certificate, you’re not just limited to entry-level positions.

The foundational knowledge and hands-on experience can be a stepping stone for climbing the career ladder, whether it’s pursuing specialized roles, taking on more responsibilities, or even advancing to managerial positions within dental offices.

Prepares for NELDA Certification:

A dental assistant certificate program also prepares you for the National Entry Level Dental Assistant (NELDA) certification exam. Achieving NELDA certification further validates your skills and knowledge, opening even more doors for career opportunities and potentially leading to higher earning potential.

dental assistant during treatment

Recommended Dental Assistant Certification

Now, you might be on the lookout for a quick route to jump into the dental assistant scene.

We’re here to help you with that.

Let us introduce you to: Preppy’s Online Dental Assistant Program!

Now, why do we think it’s top-notch? Well, here’s the reasons:

University Certification:

Finish up with Preppy, and you’ll bag a Certificate of Completion from a seriously respected university. This certificate is like an approval stamp on your resume, proving how serious you are about this career.

Accredited:

Our Certified Dental Assistant Training Program is in collaboration with a top-notch university. That means you’re getting an education that the employers approve.

Affordability:

Worried about tuition fees? Preppy’s program won’t burn a hole in your wallet. We’ve made sure it’s budget-friendly, so you can focus on learning, and not worry about financial aid.

Self-Paced:

Life can get crazy, and Preppy gets it. That’s why their program is super flexible. Learn online, at your own pace, and make it work around your hectic schedule.

Prepares you for the NELDA exam:

Preppy is not just about the basics. Get ready to crush those national certification exams with our prep sessions after you finish up.

Fast Completion:

Want to get cracking on your career, ASAP? Preppy has got your back! Their program gets you sorted in as little as six months, so you can start your career quickly.

Real-Life Skills:

We’re all about the hands-on experience. After you’re done with us, there’s an externship waiting. It’s your chance to put all that learning to use in a real healthcare setup.

Bonus Alert—Free Laptop!:

Enroll with Preppy and score a free laptop! Yep, it’s on us, and it’s yours to keep, even after you’ve aced the program.

Support 24/7:

Do you have questions or bumps in the road? Preppy has got your back. They offer a Student Coordinator and support team that are here around the clock to lend a hand whenever you need it.

See: What is a Dental Assistant

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