Dental Assistant Programs in New Jersey
One of the main reasons that people look into healthcare careers is the opportunity to make a difference in people’s lives. As a dental assistant, you can help patients overcome their fear of dental work and ensure that they develop strong oral hygiene habits. Better oral hygiene is linked with better health, so working in this industry truly impacts people’s lives.
If you’re considering a career in dental assisting, find out more about different options by contacting dental assistant schools in NJ.
Dental Assistant Schools in New Jersey
New Jersey is home to many dental assisting schools, technical schools, and community colleges that have accredited dental assisting programs. Depending on your prior education and your career goals, you may find what you need in a certificate, diploma, or Associate’s degree program.
To find a school that fits your needs, you may want to learn about the clinical requirements at each program and each school’s internship opportunities.
Commonly Offered Courses in New Jersey
- Dental Head and Neck Anatomy
- Medical Emergencies in the Dental Office
- Dental Materials
- Dental Specialties
- Practice Management
- Dental Science
- Dental Radiology
- Dental Health Education
- Dental Clinical Assisting
Many schools have on-site dental clinics for low-income patients. This setting allows you to gain more experience every day and work with people from many different backgrounds.
Some schools assign students to externships at local dental clinics. In dental assistant training, New Jersey schools really focus on hands-on experience that can serve you well in your job search. Those who complete their dental assistant training online may be able to get experience at an approved clinic in their area.
While applying for state scholarships and federal grants, look into programs that are only open to dental assisting students. The Liz Koch Memorial Scholarship is awarded to dental assisting students by the DALE Foundation.
Working as a Dental Assistant in New Jersey
If you want to become a Registered Dental Assistant, you must meet New Jersey dental assistant requirements. All testing and educational requirements are set by the New Jersey State Board of Dentistry. They require you to graduate from an accredited program and pass a rigorous licensing exam.
New Jersey salary and job outlook statistics are similar to what is reported in other New England states. Between 2014 and 2024, job openings in this field may increase 12% in New Jersey (O*Net, 2016). The average New Jersey dental assistant salary is $40,000 per year, which is considerably higher than the national average (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2016).
New Jersey is a highly populated state, so you may find that many dental clinics are in need of assistants. You may look into chain clinics, which often have locations all over the United States. Privately owned clinics are another option to consider, as are community clinics that help low-income patients.
You could be on your way to a dental assisting career in a matter of months.