Best Dental Assistant Schools in Alaska

If you want to work in dental care without spending years in school, becoming a dental assistant is a reliable choice. In Alaska, you can train in under a year at an accredited school and be ready to work in a professional clinic.

Here's what you need to know to choose the right dental assistant school and meet Alaska's requirements.

Dental Assistant Requirements in Alaska

In Alaska, dental assistants are not licensed or registered by the state. However, certain duties-like taking dental X-rays-require a Dental Radiography License from the Alaska Board of Dental Examiners.

According to the Alaska Board of Dental Examiners, you must complete an approved radiography course and pass a written exam before you can operate X-ray equipment.

Most employers prefer candidates who have completed an accredited dental assisting program that includes hands-on clinical training and preparation for the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) exams.

Steps to Start Working as a Dental Assistant in Alaska

1. Graduate high school or earn a GED.
2. Complete a dental assisting program at an accredited school.
3. Earn CPR certification from a recognized provider.
4. Apply for DANB certification if required by your employer.
5. Complete radiography licensing requirements if you plan to take X-rays.
6. Apply for jobs in dental clinics, community health centers, or specialty practices.

Best Accredited Dental Assistant Schools in Alaska

Below are some of the most reputable programs in Alaska that offer dental assisting training.

1. University of Alaska Anchorage (UAA) - Dental Assisting Certificate

• Location: Anchorage, AK
• Program Length: 1 year
• Format: In-person with clinical externships
• Highlights:
  • Accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA)
  • Focus on chairside assisting, infection control, and dental radiography
  • Includes preparation for DANB exams

Visit UAA Dental Assisting Program

2. University of Alaska Fairbanks Community & Technical College (CTC) - Dental Assistant Program

• Location: Fairbanks, AK
• Program Length: 1 year
• Format: In-person with lab and externship work
• Highlights:
  • CODA-accredited
  • Emphasis on hands-on skills and patient communication
  • Access to modern dental lab facilities

Visit UAF CTC Dental Assisting Program

3. Alaska Dental Arts Training Programs

• Location: Anchorage, AK
• Program Length: Varies by course
• Format: Part-time, evening classes available
• Highlights:
  • Focus on direct-to-workplace skills
  • Includes infection control and dental materials handling
  • Smaller class sizes for more instructor attention

Visit Alaska Dental Arts

Comparison of Alaska Dental Assisting Programs

How to Choose the Right School

When selecting a program, consider:

• Accreditation: Choose a CODA-accredited program if possible. This is recognized nationally and can expand job options.
• Clinical Hours: Look for schools with strong externship placements.
• Radiography Training: This is essential if you plan to take X-rays in a dental office.
• Schedule Flexibility: Some programs offer evening or weekend classes if you're working.
• Career Services: Job placement help after graduation is a plus.

Costs and Financial Aid

Most certificate programs in Alaska cost less than two years of college tuition. Many schools offer:

• Federal financial aid (FAFSA)
• Scholarships
• Work-study options
• Payment plans

Contact each school's financial aid office for exact costs.

Preparing for the Workplace

While in school, focus on:

• Infection control and patient safety
• Professional communication
• Chairside assisting techniques
• Radiography skills
• Office and record-keeping basics

These skills make you more employable the day you graduate.

Career Outlook

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, dental assisting is projected to grow faster than average in the coming years due to increasing demand for dental care and preventive services¹.

Completing an accredited program improves your chances of finding work quickly. In Alaska, dental assistants often find opportunities in general dentistry, orthodontics, oral surgery, and public health.

Final Tips

• Start by contacting the schools above and asking for a tour.
• Ask if you can speak with recent graduates about their job experience.
• Make sure your chosen program includes all training needed for Alaska's radiography license.

Next step: Choose two or three programs from the list, schedule visits, and start your application process. The sooner you start, the sooner you can begin working in the field.

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