Disclaimer: This article is for education only, not professional advice. Always verify details with official sources.
Some links, forms, or listings are sponsored or paid, which may affect their placement. We may earn from them. Read our full Disclaimer.
Dental assistant programs in West Des Moines, 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.
[##]
Dental Assistant Training in West Des Moines
- 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 West Des Moines 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 West Des Moines:
| School | Location | Distance |
| Aveda Institute-Des Moines | West Des Moines, IA | 1.3 miles |
| Body Wisdom Massage Therapy School | Urbandale, IA | 5.8 miles |
| Iowa School of Beauty-Des Moines | Des Moines, IA | 6.1 miles |
| La James International College-Johnston | Johnston, IA | 7.8 miles |
| UnityPoint Health-Des Moines School of Radiologic Technology | Des Moines, IA | 7.9 miles |
| Des Moines Area Community College | Ankeny, IA | 13.8 miles |
| PCI Academy-Ames | Ames, IA | 31.9 miles |
| Southwestern Community College | Creston, IA | 45.5 miles |
| Marshalltown Community College | Marshalltown, IA | 54.5 miles |
| Iowa Central Community College | Fort Dodge, IA | 68.3 miles |
Popular Online Programs In Iowa
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
Explore Related Topics:
