Best Dental Assistant Schools in Ames, Iowa

Updated October 21, 2025

Table of Contents
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Dental assistant programs in Ames, Iowa can get you career-ready in under two years. Focus on schools that blend classroom instruction, chairside labs, and clinical rotations so you graduate with the skills local dentists expect.

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Dental Assistant Training in Ames

  • Look for CODA-accredited programs or state-approved dental assisting certificates.
  • Confirm the curriculum covers radiography, infection control, impressions, and chairside skills.
  • Ask about externships with practices in Ames or nearby communities so you can log real patient hours.
  • Find out how the school prepares you for DANB exams and any state-specific credentials.

Local Dental Assistant Programs Within 100 Miles of Ames:

School Location Distance
PCI Academy-Ames Ames, IA 2.1 miles
Des Moines Area Community College Ankeny, IA 22.0 miles
La James International College-Johnston Johnston, IA 25.9 miles
Body Wisdom Massage Therapy School Urbandale, IA 27.9 miles
Iowa School of Beauty-Des Moines Des Moines, IA 28.1 miles
UnityPoint Health-Des Moines School of Radiologic Technology Des Moines, IA 30.1 miles
Aveda Institute-Des Moines West Des Moines, IA 33.3 miles
Marshalltown Community College Marshalltown, IA 36.9 miles
Ellsworth Community College Iowa Falls, IA 39.3 miles
La James International College-Ft Dodge Fort Dodge, IA 42.7 miles

Certification and Licensing in Iowa

  • Review the latest rules from the state dental board for radiography permits and expanded duties.
  • Track your clinical competencies so they count toward on-the-job requirements and specialty certifications.
  • Keep CPR/BLS, OSHA, and HIPAA training current—most employers require up-to-date cards at hire.

Questions to Ask Schools

  • What percentage of students finish on time and pass certification exams?
  • How does the program support job placement with local dental offices?
  • Are there evening, weekend, or hybrid schedules for working students?
  • Which textbooks, uniforms, or lab fees are included in tuition—and what costs extra?

Next Steps

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