10 Best Dental Assistant Schools in Los Angeles, CA

Los Angeles School of Dental Assisting is an educational institution offering intensive training for future dental assistants.

Led by Dr. Fernando de la Pena, the director with extensive experience as a dentist and dental assistant, the program stands out for its dual-perspective teaching approach.

Considering the demand for dental assistants in the job market, its program provides a cost-effective alternative to traditional education.

The school maintains small class sizes, creating an excellent academic environment that promotes rapid learning.

Although the school doesn’t have a formal job placement program, its strong connections with dentists in Los Angeles often lead to job opportunities for graduates.

About The Dental Assisting Program

LASDA Dental Assisting program is an accelerated three-month course. The program is ideal for those seeking a rewarding career change or currently unemployed.

The course combines theoretical, laboratory, and clinical classes, providing 72 hours of lecture/clinical preparation with 40 hours of internship.

Under the guidance of Dr. Fernando de la Pena and a seasoned faculty, including Dentists, Dental X-ray technicians, RDAs, DAs, and experienced Office Personnel, students gain hands-on experience in various operative procedures.

The course will cover the following topics:

• Orientation to Dentistry
• X-Ray Techniques
• Charting
• Preventive Dentistry
• Teeth Nomenclature
• Infection Control
• Dental Materials
• Instrumentation
• Dental Anatomy
• Sterilization
• Advanced Clinical Procedures (Endodontics, Prosthodontics, etc.)
• Resumes and Interviews

Upon completing the program, students will get a Dental Assistant (DA) certificate after passing the RDA exam.

To qualify for the program, students must have a high school diploma, GED, or pass an English comprehension test.

The Valley School for Dental Assisting (VSDA) is a privately owned post-secondary institution.

It offers a vocational training program with a supportive and comfortable environment.

Its mission is to provide a top-notch education for aspirants entering or advancing in dental.

VSDA believes in efficient training for individuals to join or progress in dental assisting quickly.

Combining on-the-job experience with classroom hours prioritizes practical knowledge and hands-on skills crucial for success in a dental office.

Students can choose between a 12-week program for quick entry into the dental assisting profession.

Or a nine-month Registered Dental Assistant Program for comprehensive training and eligibility for licensing upon graduation.

About The Dental Assisting Program

VSDA’s Dental Assisting (DA) Program is a 12-week program accredited by the California Dental Board.

The program is a blend of industry-proven techniques through lectures and hands-on training.

It ensures students are well-prepared for diverse challenges in the dental field.

Students will learn from X-ray licensing and CPR certification to a comprehensive knowledge of dental law, ethics, and more.

Here are the following skills students will acquire through the program:

• Assisting dentists by providing necessary instruments.
• Sterilizing equipment and dental instruments.
• Managing patient appointments and follow-up calls.
• Offering guidance on proper dental health to patients.
• Conducting basic lab work and more…

The program utilizes the latest dental technology so that students can gain hands-on experience with tools used in real dental offices.

It also prioritizes small class sizes to ensure personalized attention for effective learning, fully equipping students for their tasks.

Upon completion, you will gain the following certificates:

• CPR Certification
• Infection Control
• Dental Law & Ethics
• Coronal Polishing
• Pit & Fissure Sealants
• X-ray License

Students must have a high school diploma or GED to qualify for the program.

West Los Angeles College (WLAC) established itself in 1969.

It is one of the nine Los Angeles Community College District campuses.

The institution serves as an educational hub for communities including Baldwin Hills, Beverly Hills, Marina Del Rey, and West Los Angeles.

Over the years, the college has cultivated a diverse and dynamic learning environment with on-ground, online, full-time, and part-time students.

WLAC offers 1,000 degrees and certificates across 39 fields of study and facilitates transfers for over 300 students to four-year colleges annually.

WLAC holds accreditation from the Junior Colleges of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges and Accrediting Commission for Community.

About The Dental Assisting Program

The California Dental Board approves WLAC’s Dental Assisting programs.

It spans nine months and offers flexible start options in both the fall and spring.

The program is available in two formats: a Day Program, conducted from Monday to Thursday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, or an Evening Program, running from Monday to Friday, 3:00 pm to 9:30 pm.

The program is a comprehensive 29-unit curriculum, providing a thorough grounding in various dental assisting skills.

Successful completion will result in a Certificate of Completion in Dental Assisting, qualifying graduates to apply for the RDA examination with the Dental Board of California.

Here are some of the courses included in the program:

• Orientation to Dental Assisting
• Preclinical Chairside Assisting
• Infection Control for the Dental Setting
• Introduction to Dental Radiology
• Dental Sciences for the Dental Assistant
• Intermediate Chairside Assisting
• Dental Seminar
• Medical Emergencies
• Practice Management
• Dental Assisting Clinical Science
• Advanced Chairside Assisting and more…

Upon completing the program, students can pursue an Associate Degree in Dental Assisting (ASDA).

The program includes significant courses, electives, and general education requirements, totaling 60 units.

American Dental Academy is affiliated with Western Health Occupational Training School, Inc.

It’s an approved private institution by the American Dental Academy, which ensures compliance with state standards.

ADA established itself in 2005 and is committed to delivering high-quality education in the dental field.

The goal is to equip individuals with the necessary knowledge and technical skills for immediate employment in dental offices upon graduation.

The academy’s emphasis on small class sizes and a hands-on approach fosters an ideal learning environment.

ADA is committed to student success and provides tuition assistance, interviews, and screening to ensure eligibility.

About The Dental Assisting Program

American Dental Academy’s Dental Assisting Program is an accelerated program that runs for eight weeks with classes twice a week on Monday and Wednesday from 9 am to 4 pm.

The program covers various essential aspects of dental assisting, such as:

• Dental Terminology
• Dental Anatomy
• Chairside Assistants in Dental Offices
• Radiation (X-ray) Safety
• CPR
• Maintaining a Sterile Environment
• Sterilization Techniques
• Infection Control
• Basic Anatomy
• Intro to Dental Professions
• Dental Procedures
• Charting Training
• Instrumentation
• Resume Writing Skills and more…

Upon completing the 147-clock-hour program, equivalent to credit hours, students receive a Certificate in Dental Assisting.

Additionally, graduates can get a Dental X-ray license approved by the Dental Board of California and a CPR license approved by the American Heart Association.

American Dental Academy also provides specialized courses such as Dental Radiation Safety, CPR Certification, Infection Control, Coronal Polishing Certificate, and Pit & Fissure Sealant Certificate.

Healthcare Career College was formerly Infotech Career College, established in Paramount, CA 1990.

It offers quick career pathways to employment in different healthcare sectors to meet the diverse needs of a proficient workforce for over three decades.

The school aims to transform students into successful and compassionate healthcare professionals.

It provides a comprehensive training experience that equips students with the skills needed for a fulfilling career and instills a passion for healthcare and aiding others.

Its supportive faculty and instructors guide students through their educational journey, assisting in reaching educational and career objectives.

The school also helps in job placement upon graduation, ensuring a smooth transition to the professional field.

Healthcare Career College maintains accreditation from the Council on Occupational Education and the Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education.

About The Dental Assisting Program

Healthcare Career College’s Dental Assistant Diploma Program is an 11-month program.

It prepares students for dynamic roles in dental offices, hospitals, and public health centers.

The program teaches students in dental instruments, equipment, and procedures.

They will also assist dentists, explain patient instructions, and contribute to a comfortable and reassuring dental experience.

Here are the following skills students will acquire in the program:

• Learn to sterilize and disinfect dental instruments.
• Gain proficiency in setting up instrument trays and preparing materials.
• Assist dentists during procedures.
• Acquire skills in taking dental x-rays and recording treatment information.
• Understand postoperative instructions and manage medical and dental emergencies.
• Develop expertise in procedure and diagnostic coding.
• Master the art of instructing patients in oral hygiene and plaque control programs and more…

Upon completing the program, graduates can explore diverse career paths such as Dental Assistant, Customer Service (front office), Clinical Positions (back office), and more.

Certification is not mandatory in California; however, the school encourages it.

Most employers prefer candidates with certification from the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB), demonstrating competence and dedication to the profession.

American Career College has been a premier healthcare institution in Southern California for over 45 years.

It is driven by a passion for helping individuals discover their unique paths to success, making them an educational hub for excellence in healthcare.

The school’s mission is to provide adult learners with the technical knowledge and skills necessary for initial employment in entry-level positions.

It offers 12 quality educational programs facilitated by an outstanding faculty, ensuring timely completion and relevance to employers’ needs.

The Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES) accredits the school and is licensed by the Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education (BPPE).

About The Dental Assisting Program

American Career College’s Dental Assisting Program is a 10-month comprehensive program preparing students for a rewarding role in dental care.

The program blends with in-person classes only two days a week, making it convenient for working professionals or those with busy schedules.

It emphasizes hands-on training and real-world scenarios, ensuring students are well-prepared for the challenges of a dental care setting.

It also facilitates practical application through a 180-hour externship at a suitable dental facility for hands-on experience.

Here are some of the courses included in the program:

• Fundamentals of Dental Assisting
• Science of Dentistry
• Laboratory Procedures/Prosthodontics
• Restorative Dentistry/Pharmacology
• Pediatric Dentistry/Orthodontics
• CPR/Preventive Dentistry
• Oral Surgery/Anesthetics
• Endodontics/Radiography
• Dental Assisting School Externship and more.

Upon completion, graduates can pursue the Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) credential after completing the program.

Successful completion will earn certifications like Coronal Polish Certification and Pit and Fissure Certification.

CBD College is a non-profit healthcare career institution in Los Angeles that has provided high-quality education for over 38 years.

Its mission is to provide educational opportunities leading to careers or career advancement in a supportive environment encouraging a lifelong pursuit of knowledge.

The school’s primary goal is to offer quality educational programs focusing on timely completion, equipping students with the necessary tools for immediate and productive employment.

Over the years, it has garnered professional recognition and achievements since its inception in 1982.

In 1994, the college received Course Approval from the State of California and was later incorporated as a non-profit public benefit organization in 1996.

CBD College holds accreditation from the Accrediting Bureau of Health and Education Schools (ABHES), signifying its commitment to maintaining high education standards.

About The Dental Assisting Program

CBD College’s Dental Assistant Program equips students with the essential knowledge and skills in 10 months.

The program is structured for work-life balance, conducting classes four days a week, Monday to Thursday, from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm.

Students will engage in hands-on training at the state-of-the-art Dental Lab utilizing the latest technology in contemporary dental offices.

Students will also have many externship opportunities, allowing them to gain practical experience and elevate their proficiency in dental assisting.

The school’s faculty and staff are dedicated to students’ success, providing personalized guidance throughout your educational journey.

Additionally, federal financial aid is available for those who qualify.

It ensures education is more accessible and helps you unlock the doors to a promising career in dental assisting.

For more details regarding the program, you can contact their support through their website, call (213) 427-2200, or visit their onsite location.

Pasadena City College (PCC) has been an educational hub since 1924, serving a diverse San Gabriel Valley, LA community.

Founded in response to the community’s demand for higher education facilities, PCC started its journey on the Pasadena High School campus.

It became one of the earliest junior colleges in the Southwest United States.

It offers various academic programs, including degrees, transfer, and certificates.

Today, PCC is recognized as one of the premier community colleges in California, consistently pushing boundaries and achieving excellence.

The Western Association of Schools and Colleges and Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges accredits PCC.

About The Dental Assisting Program

Pasadena City College’s Dental Assisting Program is a comprehensive curriculum designed to prepare students for significant roles within the dental health care team.

The Dental Board of California approves the program to ensure students receive top-notch education and training.

Here are some of the courses included in the program:

• Introduction to Dental Assisting
• Dental Assisting Techniques
• Oral Radiology
• Applied Human Behavior
• Infection Control
• Chairside Techniques
• Dental Office Administration
• Clinical Experience I & II
• Orthodontic Assistance and more…

Upon completion, graduates are eligible to take various exams for certifications.

It includes the Dental Assisting National Board examination for Certified Dental Assistant (CDA), Certified Orthodontic Assistant (COA), and the California Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) examinations.

After completing the advanced Orthodontic assistant class, the program allows California Orthodontic Assistant Exam (OA) eligibility.

Admission requirements include:

• A high school diploma or equivalent.
• A minimum GPA of 2.0 for college work.
  Completion of prerequisite courses.
• CPR/Basic Life Support card
• Health data forms indicating good health, immunizations, and chest X-rays

Concorde Career College’s North Hollywood has been a cornerstone of training individuals for rewarding careers in the healthcare sector for 60 years.

It offers various programs in dental assisting, surgical technology, nursing, respiratory therapy, physical therapy, and more.

The school provides hands-on diploma and associate degree programs guided by local healthcare employers, ensuring students are well-prepared for the challenges of their chosen field.

The faculty works collaboratively to mentor, coach, and prepare students for successful careers in healthcare, instilling confidence and readiness for their chosen responsibilities.

The Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC) accredits the school.

It also holds approval to operate in California from the Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education (BPPE).

About The Dental Assisting Program

Concorde Career College’s Dental Assistant Diploma Program in North Hollywood, CA, is an accelerated pathway for individuals aspiring to impact dental care for 10 months positively.

The program equips students with the skills to contribute to dental procedures, maintain office operations, and create a welcoming patient environment.

It emphasizes hands-on experiences with 320 lab hours and a 160-hour externship where students work alongside dental professionals to gain practical insights.

The program covers the following topics:

• Anatomy & Physiology
• Dental Specialties
• Dental Materials
• Dental Procedures
• Patient Care
• Diagnostics
• Orthodontics
• Dental Radiology
• Infection Control
• Pit and Fissure Sealant Application
• Coronal Polishing and more…

Upon graduation, students are prepared to sit for the written and practical California State Board Examination to become a Registered Dental Assistant.

Kairos Career College offers a unique and comprehensive learning experience for individuals aspiring to excel in the field of dental assistance.

It is a California-based institution dedicated to the dental assistant profession since 2015.

The school aims to equip students with the necessary skills and hands-on clinical training to ensure they are job-ready upon graduation.

Its faculty is dedicated to providing personalized attention to students and creates a supportive and conducive learning environment.

KairosCC offers various support services, including tutoring and financial aid assistance, ensuring every student receives the guidance they need.

KairosCC is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC), assuring the quality and relevance of our dental assistant programs.

About The Dental Assisting Program

Kairos Career College Dental Assisting Program is an extensive training to ensure students are well-prepared for their dynamic role as dental assistants.

The program emphasizes hands-on training to equip students with real-world skills and provide the tools and knowledge needed to thrive in their new careers.

Students can also benefit from 185 hours of externship experience, developing additional skills and gaining practical exposure in real-world dental offices.

Here are the program highlights and benefits to enrollees:

• Emphasis on hands-on learning.
• Course completion in just 8 months.
• Competitive tuition rates.
• 185 hours of externship experience.
• 565 hours of clinical procedures, anatomy and physiology, and theoretical study.
• Recognition by local employers.
• Experienced and qualified instructors.
• Personalized instruction in a friendly, student-focused environment
• Financial Aid options for eligible students.
• Job Placement Assistance to facilitate a smooth transition into the workforce.

The program also follows the Standard Occupation Classification Code (SOC Code), which outlines California’s qualifications for dental assistants.