Dental Assistant Programs in Missouri
When you pursue a career in healthcare, you get to go home every day knowing that your work makes a difference. There are tons of different specialties in healthcare, allowing you to choose the specialty that meets your needs and makes use of your talents.
If you are detail-oriented and good with your hands, a career in dentistry may be a natural choice for you. In a matter of months, you may be able to become a dental assistant and start building your ideal career.
Learn more about your training options by contacting dental schools in Missouri today.
Dental Assistant Schools in Missouri
You do not need any prior experience in dental care or healthcare to attend most dental assisting programs. Most of these programs start at the very beginning, giving you a solid foundation of dental assisting skills and techniques.
The type of program you select depends on your timeline and your future goals for your education. The quickest option is a certificate or diploma, while an Associate’s degree may require about two years of coursework. However, earning an Associate’s degree may also give you the opportunity to step into a dental hygienist role if you attend a dental hygienist school.
Missouri course requirements are fairly similar across all of these degree options.
Dental Assisting Coursework
- Chairside Assisting in Operative Dentistry
- Preclinical Practice
- Dental Terminology
- Infection Control in Dentistry
- Fundamentals of Chairside Assisting
- Dental Radiology
- Dental Office Procedures
- Dental Systems Management
- Dental Materials
- Preventive Dental Health
- Chairside Assisting in Dental Specialties
You may have the opportunity to complete some of your dental assistant classes online. This option is convenient for those with frequently changing work schedules. However, you do have to meet your clinical requirements at a local dental clinic or dental school. Instructors should give you the chance to work with adults, children, elderly patients, and patients with special needs.
Financial aid can help you minimize your out-of-pocket expenses or the amount of student debt you accumulate. In addition to federal and state programs, consider private aid programs. The DALE Foundation awards the Liz Koch Memorial Scholarship to dental assisting students every year.
Working as a Dental Assistant in Missouri
The job outlook for dental assistants is strong throughout the country, but it is particularly bright in Missouri. By the year 2024, demand for dental assistants may increase 14% (O*Net, 2016). The average dental assistant salary in Missouri is $34,800 per year (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2016).
You may not need to become licensed as soon as you begin working. However, at some point in your career, you likely want to become certified in expanded functions and x-rays. The testing and licensing process is regulated by the Missouri Dental Board.
A career in dental assisting can help you get established in one of the fastest growing sectors of healthcare.