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If you want to start working in a dental office without spending years in school, becoming a dental assistant is a smart move. Arizona has solid training options that can prepare you to work in a dentist's office, orthodontic practice, or oral surgery clinic. The best part is you can often get trained in under a year. Here's what you need to know to get started.
Why Choose Dental Assisting in Arizona
Dental assistants in Arizona help keep offices running smoothly. You'll prepare patients for procedures, sterilize instruments, take X-rays if certified, and assist the dentist during treatment. It's a career that's always in demand because people will always need dental care.
Arizona doesn't require you to have a license to work as an entry-level dental assistant, but there are specific certifications required for certain duties like radiography or coronal polishing. Employers often prefer candidates who completed an accredited training program.
Steps to Become a Dental Assistant in Arizona
Here's a straightforward path most people follow:
- Graduate high school or earn a GED.
- Choose an accredited dental assisting school with curriculum recognized by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA).
- Complete the program, which usually takes 9-12 months for a diploma or about 2 years for an associate degree.
- Obtain certifications needed for advanced duties:
- Arizona Radiologic Proficiency certificate for dental X-rays
- Coronal polishing certificate if required by your employer
- Apply for dental assisting jobs through clinics, private practices, or dental chains.
Note: In Arizona, the Arizona State Board of Dental Examiners sets the requirements for advanced functions. Always check their website for up-to-date rules.
Top Dental Assistant Schools in Arizona
Below are some of the most recognized programs in the state. These programs focus on hands-on training and prepare you for the certifications Arizona requires.
- Location: Tucson, AZ
- Length: 11 months (Certificate)
- Highlights: CODA-accredited, includes radiology and coronal polishing training, externship included.
2. Phoenix College - Dental Assisting
- Location: Phoenix, AZ
- Length: 11 months (Certificate of Completion)
- Highlights: Offers both certificate and degree options, day and evening classes.
3. Carrington College - Dental Assisting
- Location: Mesa, Phoenix, Tucson
- Length: As few as 9 months
- Highlights: Hands-on labs, externship opportunities, preparation for the DANB Radiation Health and Safety (RHS) exam.
4. Rio Salado College - Dental Assisting Program
- Location: Tempe, AZ (with clinical partners statewide)
- Length: 12 months
- Highlights: Hybrid format with online courses and in-person labs, broad clinical placement network.
5. Arizona College of Allied Health - Dental Assistant Program
- Location: Glendale, Mesa
- Length: 10 months
- Highlights: Focused career services support, evening classes available.
Comparing Arizona Programs
Here's a quick side-by-side on length and CODA accreditation:
| School | Location(s) | Length | CODA Accredited |
| Pima Community College | Tucson | 11 months | Yes |
| Phoenix College | Phoenix | 11 months | Yes |
| Carrington College | Mesa, Phoenix, Tucson | 9 months | Yes |
| Rio Salado College | Statewide (Tempe HQ) | 12 months | Yes |
| Arizona College of Allied Health | Glendale, Mesa | 10 months | No |
Tip: While CODA accreditation isn't mandatory to work in Arizona, it can make you more competitive for jobs and help if you move to another state.
What to Look for in a Dental Assistant School
When comparing schools, focus on these key factors:
- CODA accreditation for broader career options
- Externship opportunities for real-world experience
- Prep for certifications like DANB's RHS and Coronal Polishing
- Flexible schedules if you're working while training
- Graduate placement rates to see how many students get jobs in the field
Licensing and Certification Requirements in Arizona
Arizona recognizes three levels of dental assisting:
- Unlicensed Dental Assistant - Can perform basic chairside duties under supervision.
- Dental Assistant with Radiologic Proficiency Certificate - Can legally take dental X-rays in Arizona.
- Expanded Function Dental Assistant - May perform coronal polishing and other tasks with the right training.
Arizona State Board of Dental Examiners: Requirements and forms for dental assistants are available at https://dentalboard.az.gov/.
Getting Hired After Training
Most graduates find their first job through:
- Externships that turn into job offers
- Networking with instructors who have industry contacts
- Job boards that focus on healthcare positions
- Dental staffing agencies
Some employers offer on-the-job training for specific certifications, especially if you already have formal schooling.
Summary and Next Steps
If you're ready to start a career in dental assisting in Arizona:
- Pick a school from the CODA-accredited list above.
- Talk to admissions to confirm start dates, tuition, and externship details.
- Apply and enroll, aiming to finish your program within a year.
- Get your certifications if you want to handle X-rays or advanced procedures.
Choosing the right program is the most important step. Once you have training, you can start working quickly and build experience. Contact the schools on this list today to compare schedules and program costs so you can start your path toward becoming a dental assistant in Arizona.
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