Best Dental Assistant Schools in Kentucky

Updated August 13, 2025

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If you want to become a dental assistant in Kentucky, the first step is finding the right training program. Dental assistants help dentists with patient care, prepare treatment rooms, handle instruments, and perform some lab work. In Kentucky, you can start in this career with a certificate or diploma program that takes about a year or less.

This guide covers the best dental assistant schools in Kentucky, what to expect in training, and how to meet state requirements.

Steps to Become a Dental Assistant in Kentucky

Kentucky does not require a state license for basic dental assisting. However, you must complete extra training to perform certain expanded functions, such as radiography.

Here's the general path most people follow:

  1. Graduate high school or earn a GED - This is the minimum education required by most programs.
  2. Complete a dental assisting program - Look for programs accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA).
  3. Earn certifications for expanded functions - If you want to take dental X-rays in Kentucky, you must earn a radiography certification from the Kentucky Board of Dentistry.
  4. Apply for jobs in dental offices - Training often includes an externship, which can lead to direct hires.

Kentucky Board of Dentistry: To perform radiography, dental assistants must complete an approved course and register with the Board. 1

What to Look for in a Dental Assistant School

When comparing dental assistant training programs, focus on:

  • CODA accreditation for quality and compliance.
  • Program length (certificate and diploma programs are usually 9-12 months; some shorter options exist).
  • Hands-on training in a dental lab or clinic.
  • Externship opportunities to get real-world experience before graduation.
  • Expanded function training if you want to perform radiography or coronal polishing.

Best Dental Assistant Schools in Kentucky

Below are some well-regarded dental assistant programs in Kentucky. Accreditation status can change, so confirm with the school before enrolling.

School Location Program Type CODA Accredited Approx. Length
Bluegrass Community and Technical College Lexington Diploma Yes 10-12 months
MedQuest College Lexington & Louisville Diploma Yes 10 months
West Kentucky Community and Technical College Paducah Diploma Yes 12 months
Southcentral Kentucky Community and Technical College Bowling Green Diploma Yes 12 months
Daymar College Several KY campuses Diploma No (check for updates) 10-12 months

Bluegrass Community and Technical College (BCTC)

BCTC's Dental Assisting program is CODA-accredited and includes both classroom training and clinical work. Students finish with eligibility for national certification exams.

MedQuest College

MedQuest offers small class sizes and a strong externship program. It's a good choice if you want more one-on-one instruction.

West Kentucky Community and Technical College (WKCTC)

WKCTC combines hands-on learning with theory. Their program is known for strong local employer partnerships.

Southcentral Kentucky Community and Technical College

Students here complete clinical rotations at area dental practices. The college focuses on community-based learning.

Daymar College

Daymar offers flexible scheduling, but potential students should confirm accreditation and transfer options before committing.

Expanded Function Dental Assisting in Kentucky

After becoming a dental assistant, you may want to specialize. In Kentucky, expanded function dental assistants (EFDAs) can perform additional duties such as:

  • Taking dental X-rays
  • Coronal polishing
  • Applying sealants

To qualify, you'll need to complete board-approved EFDA courses and submit proof to the Kentucky Board of Dentistry.

Tips for Choosing and Applying to a Program

  1. Contact admissions early - Dental assisting programs can fill up quickly.
  2. Ask about externships - These often lead to job offers.
  3. Check financial aid options - Many Kentucky trade schools offer grants and scholarships.
  4. Visit the campus - See the lab facilities and talk to instructors.
  5. Verify CODA status - Only CODA-accredited programs qualify graduates for certain national certifications.

Questions to Ask Before Enrolling

  • Is the program CODA-accredited?
  • What percentage of graduates find jobs within six months?
  • Does tuition include exam fees and uniforms?
  • How many hours of clinical experience will I get?

Career Outlook for Dental Assistants in Kentucky

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, dental assisting is expected to grow faster than average in the coming years. This means more job opportunities in private dental offices, clinics, and specialty practices.

Many graduates start as entry-level dental assistants and later move into expanded functions, office management, or even dental hygiene with more schooling.

Summary and Next Steps

If you're ready to start a stable career in healthcare without spending years in college, dental assisting is a solid option. In Kentucky, focusing on CODA-accredited schools will give you the training employers want - and prepare you for expanded function certifications later.

Next step: Make a list of the schools above, visit their websites, request program details, and schedule a campus tour. Look for strong externship programs and confirm how the school supports graduates in finding work.

  1. Kentucky Board of Dentistry. "Dental Assistants." https://dentistry.ky.gov ↩

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