Best Dental Assistant Schools in Delaware

Updated August 13, 2025

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If you want to start a hands-on career in dentistry, becoming a dental assistant is one of the fastest ways to enter the field.
The good news: in Delaware, you can train and start working in under a year at most schools.

Here's what you need to know to choose the right program and meet state requirements.

Dental Assistant Requirements in Delaware

Delaware does not have a separate license for entry-level dental assistants. However, there are specific rules if you want to perform radiography (X-rays) or expanded functions.

The Delaware Board of Dentistry and Dental Hygiene sets the training requirements for dental assistants in the state.

Basic chairside assisting does not require a license, but you must complete approved training to legally take dental X-rays in Delaware.

According to the Delaware Board of Dentistry and Dental Hygiene, to perform radiography, you must:

  • Complete Board-approved radiation health and safety training.
  • Pass the DANB Radiation Health and Safety (RHS) exam.

Many schools include this preparation as part of their program.

How to Choose the Right Dental Assistant School

When you compare dental assistant programs in Delaware, focus on:

  1. Accreditation - Look for CODA (Commission on Dental Accreditation) approval or state-recognized programs.
  2. Hands-on training - You should get real practice in dental labs and clinics.
  3. Radiography preparation - The program should prepare you for the DANB RHS exam.
  4. Externship options - A clinical externship is key for gaining experience and making connections.
  5. Flexible scheduling - Check for day, evening, or part-time class options if you're working.

Best Dental Assistant Schools in Delaware

Here are some top options for training in Delaware. Program details may change, so contact the school for current start dates, costs, and requirements.

School Location Program Length Notable Features
Delaware Technical Community College Wilmington, Dover, Georgetown, Stanton ~10-12 months CODA-accredited, externship included, prepares for DANB exams
Polytech Adult Education Woodside ~9 months Evening classes, small class sizes, includes radiology training
Harris School of Business - Dover Campus Dover ~9 months Focus on hands-on skills, job placement assistance
Delaware Skills Center Wilmington Varies (short-term) Affordable tuition, entry-level training, local dental office partnerships

Steps to Start Your Dental Assistant Career in Delaware

Follow these steps to get started:

  1. Research schools in your area and choose one that meets your needs.
  2. Apply and enroll in a state-recognized or CODA-accredited program.
  3. Complete your coursework and lab training.
  4. Finish your externship for on-the-job learning.
  5. Pass the DANB RHS exam if you will take dental X-rays.
  6. Apply for jobs in dental offices, community health clinics, or specialty practices.

Skills You'll Learn in Training

A quality dental assistant program in Delaware will teach:

  • Chairside assistance for dental procedures
  • Infection control and sterilization
  • Dental terminology and anatomy
  • Patient communication
  • Radiography safety and technique
  • Instrument setup and sterilization

These skills prepare you to handle both the technical and interpersonal parts of the job.

Delaware Job Outlook for Dental Assistants

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports steady growth for dental assistants across the country.
In Delaware, this means good opportunities in both urban and rural practices.

Many dental assistants in the state advance to:

  • Expanded Function Dental Assistant (EFDA) roles
  • Office management positions
  • Dental hygiene programs

Questions to Ask Before Enrolling

Before signing up, ask the school:

  • Is your program accredited?
  • Does it include DANB RHS exam preparation?
  • What is the total cost (tuition, books, uniforms, exam fees)?
  • Are evening or part-time schedules available?
  • Is job placement support included?

These answers will help you compare programs more clearly.

Summary and Next Steps

Training as a dental assistant in Delaware is straightforward.
You can complete school in under a year, gain hands-on skills, and be job-ready quickly.

Here's what to do next:

  1. Pick a program from the list above.
  2. Call for program dates and enrollment requirements.
  3. Make sure it includes radiography training if you plan to take X-rays.
  4. Complete your training and externship.
  5. Get certified in radiation safety, then start applying for jobs.

If you're ready to work in healthcare, a dental assistant career offers fast entry, steady job demand, and the chance to keep learning new skills.

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