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If you want to work in healthcare without spending years in school, dental assisting is a solid choice. You can train, get certified, and start working in less than two years-sometimes in under a year.
Dental assistants work directly with dentists and patients. They handle tasks like preparing treatment rooms, sterilizing instruments, taking x-rays, and keeping patient records. In Alabama, most employers prefer or require training from an accredited program.
Here's what you need to know to choose the right dental assistant school in Alabama.
Dental Assistant Licensing in Alabama
In Alabama, dental assistants are not licensed in the same way as dental hygienists. However, certain expanded duties do require specific credentials.
According to the Alabama Board of Dental Examiners, dental assistants who take x-rays must hold a board-approved radiology certification.
There are two main paths:
- On-the-job training - Possible, but limits your duties and career growth. Most employers hire only graduates of formal programs.
- Formal education - A dental assistant certificate or diploma from an accredited trade school or community college.
What to Look for in a Dental Assistant School
When comparing Alabama dental assistant programs, focus on:
- CODA accreditation (Commission on Dental Accreditation)
- Hands-on clinical training hours
- Inclusion of radiology certification prep
- Job placement assistance
- Flexible scheduling (day, evening, weekend options)
- Partnerships with local dental practices for externships
Best Dental Assistant Schools in Alabama
Here are some of the top programs in the state. Always confirm current costs, schedules, and entry requirements directly with the school.
- Location: Hanceville, AL
- Program Length: 3 semesters (about 1 year)
- Highlights: CODA-accredited, strong clinical rotations, graduates eligible for national and state certifications.
- Website: Wallace State CC Dental Assisting
2. Fortis College - Dental Assisting Diploma
- Locations: Birmingham, Dothan, Montgomery
- Program Length: Approximately 10 months
- Highlights: Includes x-ray training, chairside skills, and externship placement.
- Website: Fortis College Alabama
- Location: Birmingham, AL
- Program Length: 1 year (certificate)
- Highlights: CODA-accredited, small class sizes, local externship partners.
- Website: Lawson State Dental Assisting
4. Trenholm State Community College - Dental Assisting Technology
- Location: Montgomery, AL
- Program Length: 12 months
- Highlights: Offers both certificate and associate degree options, CODA-accredited.
- Website: Trenholm State Programs
- Location: Tanner, AL
- Program Length: Typically 1 year
- Highlights: Clinical training in area dental clinics, radiology prep included.
- Website: Calhoun CC Dental Health
6. Ross Medical Education Center - Dental Assistant
- Location: Huntsville, AL
- Program Length: About 9 months
- Highlights: Focuses on entry-level dental assisting skills, externship included.
- Website: Ross Medical Huntsville
Training Program Comparison
| School | Length | Accreditation | Radiology Prep | Externship |
| Wallace State Community College | 1 year | CODA | Yes | Yes |
| Fortis College (multiple locations) | ~10 months | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Lawson State Community College | 1 year | CODA | Yes | Yes |
| Trenholm State Community College | 12 months | CODA | Yes | Yes |
| Calhoun Community College | 1 year | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Ross Medical Education Center (Huntsville) | ~9 months | Yes | Yes | Yes |
How to Get Started
Here's the general process to start working as a dental assistant in Alabama:
- Graduate high school or earn a GED.
- Apply to a CODA-accredited program or recognized trade school.
- Complete your training including clinical and externship hours.
- Earn radiology certification if you will be taking x-rays.
- Apply for jobs in dental clinics, orthodontic offices, or specialty practices.
Why Accredited Training Matters
Accredited programs meet national standards for dental assisting education. Completing one:
- Qualifies you for more job opportunities.
- Lets you take optional national certification exams (such as the Dental Assisting National Board exams).
- Ensures your radiology training is recognized by the Alabama Board of Dental Examiners.
Next Steps
If you're ready to move forward, contact two or three schools near you and ask:
- When is the next start date?
- What's the total program cost, including books and fees?
- How many clinical hours are included?
- What certification(s) will I be eligible for after graduation?
Many programs start new cohorts several times a year. If you start planning now, you could be working as a dental assistant in under 12 months.
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