Best Dental Assistant Schools in Waterloo, Iowa

Updated October 21, 2025

Table of Contents
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Dental assistant programs in Waterloo, 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 Waterloo

  • 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 Waterloo 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 Waterloo:

School Location Distance
The Salon Professional Academy-Cedar Falls Cedar Falls, IA 4.3 miles
Hawkeye Community College Waterloo, IA 4.4 miles
La James International College-Cedar Falls Cedar Falls, IA 4.5 miles
Marshalltown Community College Marshalltown, IA 44.3 miles
Ellsworth Community College Iowa Falls, IA 46.6 miles
Capri College-Cedar Rapids Cedar Rapids, IA 49.3 miles
Mercy-St Luke's School of Radiologic Technology Cedar Rapids, IA 49.8 miles
Northeast Iowa Community College Calmar, IA 53.2 miles
Kirkwood Community College Cedar Rapids, IA 53.8 miles
Carlson College of Massage Therapy Anamosa, IA 57.5 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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