Best Dental Assistant Schools in Urbandale, Iowa

Updated October 21, 2025

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Dental assistant programs in Urbandale, 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 Urbandale

  • 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 Urbandale 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 Urbandale:

School Location Distance
Body Wisdom Massage Therapy School Urbandale, IA 2.5 miles
La James International College-Johnston Johnston, IA 2.7 miles
Iowa School of Beauty-Des Moines Des Moines, IA 3.7 miles
Aveda Institute-Des Moines West Des Moines, IA 5.4 miles
UnityPoint Health-Des Moines School of Radiologic Technology Des Moines, IA 8.3 miles
Des Moines Area Community College Ankeny, IA 10.0 miles
PCI Academy-Ames Ames, IA 26.2 miles
Southwestern Community College Creston, IA 49.9 miles
Marshalltown Community College Marshalltown, IA 51.4 miles
Iowa Central Community College Fort Dodge, IA 62.7 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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