Best Dental Assistant Schools in Mississippi

Starting a career as a dental assistant in Mississippi is straightforward if you know the steps. The right school can prepare you with the skills required for the job and help you meet state requirements. Mississippi has several accredited programs to choose from, each offering different schedules, training formats, and clinical experiences.

Below, you'll find a list of some of the best options plus details on what to expect in your training.

Understanding Dental Assistant Requirements in Mississippi

Mississippi does not require dental assistants to be licensed to perform basic chairside duties. However, certain expanded functions, like radiography, require additional certification.

Mississippi State Board of Dental Examiners: "Dental assistants who expose radiographs must be certified in radiology as outlined by the Board."

A dental assisting program can prepare you for these certifications as part of your training. Choosing an accredited school is important because it helps ensure your coursework meets professional standards.

How Long Dental Assistant Training Takes

Most dental assistant programs in Mississippi take less than a year, but some offer part-time options that extend the schedule. Here's a general breakdown:

Best Dental Assistant Schools in Mississippi

Here are some reputable schools that provide dental assistant training in Mississippi. Always confirm current program details directly with the school.

1. Hinds Community College - Dental Assisting Technology

• Location: Raymond, MS
• Program Length: 1 year (3 semesters)
• Offers training in chairside skills, laboratory procedures, and radiology.
• Includes hands-on clinical experience.
• Hinds Dental Assisting Program

2. Meridian Community College - Dental Assisting Technology

• Location: Meridian, MS
• Program Length: 3 semesters
• Covers patient care, dental materials, and office procedures.
• Prepares students for the national certification exam.
• Meridian CC Dental Assisting

3. Pearl River Community College - Dental Assisting

• Location: Hattiesburg, MS
• Program Length: 1 year
• Students gain training in both clinical and administrative duties.
• Accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA).
• PRCC Dental Assisting

4. Delta Technical College - Dental Assisting Program

• Location: Horn Lake, MS
• Program Length: 9 months
• Emphasizes real-world skills with on-site labs and externships.
• Offers day and evening classes for flexibility.
• Delta Tech Dental Assisting

5. Accelerated Dental Assisting Academy (Multiple Locations)

• Format: 10-13 week accelerated program
• Designed for quick entry into the workforce.
• Focused on hands-on training in a dental office setting.
• Accelerated Dental Assisting Academy

Steps to Start Your Dental Assistant Career in Mississippi

1. Choose and enroll in an accredited program
   Pick a school that fits your schedule and career goals.

2. Complete coursework and clinical training
   This covers dental terminology, tools, safety procedures, and patient interaction.

3. Get radiology certification if needed
   If your job will require taking X-rays, you'll need to meet Mississippi's certification requirements.

4. Consider national certification
   The Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) credential from the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) can improve your job prospects.

5. Apply for positions in dental offices
   Network through your school's job placement services whenever possible.

What to Look for in a Dental Assistant School

When comparing programs, consider these key factors:

• CODA accreditation for higher training standards.
• Hands-on clinical experience in real dental settings.
• Instructor background in dentistry.
• Class schedules that fit your availability.
• Job placement support after graduation.

Work Settings for Dental Assistants in Mississippi

As a dental assistant, you can work in:

• General dental offices
• Specialty dental practices (orthodontics, periodontics)
• Public health dental clinics
• Dental schools or universities

Continuing Education and Career Growth

Even though Mississippi doesn't license basic dental assistants, keeping your skills current matters. Continuing education through workshops or advanced programs can prepare you for expanded duties or office management roles.

You could also progress into roles such as:

• Expanded Function Dental Assistant (EFDA)
• Dental office manager
• Dental hygiene or other dental specialties (requires further schooling)

Summary and Next Steps

If you're ready to start a hands-on career in healthcare, becoming a dental assistant in Mississippi is a practical choice. The training is short, and you'll be able to work directly with patients every day.

Here's what to do next:

1. Research the schools above and contact them for current program details.
2. Visit campuses or attend virtual info sessions.
3. Enroll in the program that best fits your needs.
4. Follow Mississippi's radiology certification process if your job will require it.

Starting with the right education will set you up for a solid and in-demand career in dentistry.

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