If you want to work in dental healthcare without spending years in school, becoming a dental assistant is one of the fastest ways to get started. In Hawaii, you can train in about a year, earn a recognized credential, and begin helping patients as part of a professional dental team.
Here’s what you need to know and where to find the best dental assistant schools in Hawaii.
What a dental assistant does
Dental assistants keep dental offices running smoothly. They help the dentist during procedures, prepare treatment rooms, and ensure patients are comfortable. They may also manage scheduling, patient records, and sterilization of tools.
In Hawaii, most dental assistants are trained on the job or through postsecondary programs that combine classroom learning with hands-on practice.
Hawaii dental assistant requirements
Hawaii does not require dental assistants to be licensed to perform basic chairside duties. However, specialized tasks like radiography do require training and certification.
Hawaii State Rule: To take dental X-rays, a dental assistant must complete a Board-approved course in radiography.
Source: Hawaii Board of Dental Examiners
Many employers prefer hiring graduates from accredited dental assisting programs, especially those that prepare you for the Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) exam from the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB).
How to become a dental assistant in Hawaii
Complete a dental assistant training program
Look for schools with Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) approval or strong local reputation.
Get hands-on practice
Most programs include clinical rotations in real dental offices.
Earn additional certifications
Radiography and infection control certifications can make you more employable.
Apply for entry-level positions
Many dental offices will train you further once hired.
Best dental assistant schools in Hawaii
Below are some of the top training options available in Hawaii. Program details may change, so confirm directly with the school before enrolling.
#1
University of Hawaii Maui College
📍
Kahului, HI
•In-state option
Located in Kahului, HI University of Hawaii Maui College is a institution focused on career-ready training. Signature programs include Accounting Technology, Bookkeeper, and Construction Trades.
Tip: CODA accreditation is important if you plan to take the DANB CDA exam. Non-accredited programs can still be good, but check if they offer pathways to certification.
Skills you’ll learn
Most Hawaii dental assisting programs cover:
Chairside assisting techniques
Dental terminology
Patient communication
Radiography and safety
Sterilization and infection control
Office and scheduling software
These skills prepare you for both clinical work and administrative tasks in a dental office.
Certifications to Consider
While not required for all positions in Hawaii, these certifications can help you stand out:
Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) offered by DANB
Radiology Certificate required to take dental X-rays
Infection Control (ICE) recognized by many. Employers
Reminder: Certification requirements vary by state. This information applies to Hawaii and may differ elsewhere.
Choosing the right school
When comparing programs, look at:
Accreditation status
Program length and schedule
Clinical rotation opportunities
Graduate success rates
Employer partnerships
Contact the admissions office for enrollment requirements, tuition, and start dates.
Next steps
If you’re ready to start:
Make a short list of schools that fit your location and schedule.
Visit each campus or attend an online info session.
Apply early - healthcare programs often fill months in advance.
Ask about payment options and payment plans.
With the right training, you could be working in a dental office in about a year. Hawaii offers several strong programs that can help you enter this growing healthcare field quickly.
