Dental Assistant Schools in Hawaii
Dental Assistant Programs in Hawaii
Taking on an assistant role in a medical setting is a great way to get your foot in the door and learn more about this industry. With training from dental schools in Hawaii, you can become a dental assistant and enjoy the benefits of a career in this established field.
This is the time to work toward your career goals and build your skills in dental assisting.
Contact dental hygienist Hawaii programs below to take the first step.
Dental Assistant Schools in Hawaii
No matter which Hawaiian island you live on, you may be able to take the next step in your education with a dental hygiene or dental assisting program.
You may attend a standalone Hawaii school of dental arts or look into options at local community colleges and technical schools. While Associate’s degree programs generally require about two years of study, certificate and diploma programs usually last less than one year.
Curriculum requirements vary between schools, but you may come across the same topics and skills while comparing programs.
Dental Hygienist Hawaii Course Options
- Essentials of Dental Assisting
- Dental Materials
- Dental Sciences
- Dental Radiography
- Dental Office Administration
- Specialty Clinical Rotations
Clinical experience is an essential part of your education. The time you spend working with patients and dentists tests your ability to apply theory to work, respond to clinical situations, and take direction from instructors and supervising dentists.
Some schools have on-site dental clinics where you can gain experience, while others send you to local clinics for clinical rotations.
Hawaii, like many states, has a growing shortage of healthcare professionals. For that reason, there are many scholarship programs for those who are willing to complete their education here and work in Hawaii after graduation. Once you have chosen a dental assisting school, you can apply for scholarships like the Hana Lima Scholarship.
Working as a Dental Assistant in Hawaii
Before you can start working as a dental assistant, you must meet Hawaii dental license requirements. Your training must meet Hawaii Occupational Safety and Health standards to prepare you for the workplace.
As a new graduate, you may apply for jobs at local clinics and dental facilities within larger healthcare institutions. Keep in mind that you generally need additional hands-on training to understand the specific needs of each particular employer and patient base.
In Hawaii, dental assistants claim an average annual income of $34,500 per year (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2016). Those who advance to the role of dental hygienist may take on more responsibility and a larger scope of practice.
When it comes to the average dental hygienist salary, Hawaii reports an annual figure of $72,790 per year (BLS, 2016). Between 2014 and 2024, O*Net expects a 4% increase in job openings for dental assistants (2016).
A career in dental assisting could change your future and make dental care more accessible in your community.