About Online Dental Assistant Programs

Dental assistants sterilize equipment, prepare patients for treatment, update records and help dentists with suctioning and instruments during dental procedures. Training for a career in this area can take up to two years, and a number of schools now offer online learning options.

Curriculum

Online dental assistant programs teach students the basics of dental hygiene, as well as laboratory procedures and clinical techniques. Possible courses include oral anatomy, radiography, infection control and dental office administration. Most programs require students to take general English, math and communications classes as well.

Programs

Study paths lead to a certificate in dental assisting, but some colleges offer an associate degree in this major. Schools with accreditation include Gulf Coast State College in Florida, Monroe Community College in New York and Lake Area Technical Institute in South Dakota.

Advantages

Students in online dental assistant programs enjoy flexible study times and accommodating schedule options. Individuals can complete the required work at their own pace. In addition, students are able to access their coursework at locations outside of their residence with a wireless connection.

Disadvantages

While online courses offer freedom and convenience, there are some disadvantages to online dental assistant programs. Hands-on experience is generally limited, and this is one of the most important aspects of dental assistant training. In addition, a number of online programs in this field are not accredited. Prior to applying to a school, find out if they are approved by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA).