Best Dental Assistant Schools in New Hampshire

If you're planning to become a dental assistant in New Hampshire, the first step is choosing the right training program. Employers look for candidates who have proper education and hands-on training. While New Hampshire doesn't require dental assistants to be licensed for basic duties, specialized skills and expanded functions require formal training and certification.

What a Dental Assistant Does

Dental assistants perform a mix of patient care and clinical support duties, such as:

• Preparing treatment rooms and instruments
• Assisting during dental procedures
• Taking dental x-rays
• Managing patient records
• Sterilizing equipment
• Providing post-treatment instructions

In New Hampshire, some functions like radiography require meeting state-approved education and exam requirements.

State Rule: According to the New Hampshire Board of Dental Examiners, dental assistants must complete an approved radiography course to legally take dental x-rays.

Steps to Become a Dental Assistant in New Hampshire

Here's the general path to enter the field:

1. Complete a Dental Assistant Training Program
   Look for programs accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) or recognized by the state.

2. Learn Required Skills
   Coursework should cover chairside assisting, infection control, dental terminology, and radiography.

3. Meet Certification Requirements
   For tasks like x-rays, complete a state-approved radiology course and pass the required exam.

4. Get Hands-On Experience
   Many programs include externships at dental offices to gain real-world skills.

5. Stay Current with Continuing Education
   Some certifications require ongoing training each year.

Best Dental Assistant Schools in New Hampshire

Below are some of the top training options. Always confirm details directly with each school.

1. NHTI - Concord's Community College

Location: Concord, NH
NHTI offers a CODA-accredited Dental Assisting Certificate program. Students receive training in chairside assisting, radiography, dental materials, and office management. The program also includes a clinical externship.

2. Manchester Community College (MCC)

Location: Manchester, NH
MCC has a comprehensive dental assisting program with both classroom instruction and hands-on lab work. Students learn patient care, dental sciences, and infection control protocols. The program prepares students for entry-level positions in various dental settings.

3. Seacoast Career Schools - Manchester Campus

Location: Manchester, NH
Seacoast Career Schools offers a focused Dental Assisting program with practical externship opportunities. The training includes dental anatomy, radiography, chairside procedures, and administrative duties.

4. Lakes Region Community College

Location: Laconia, NH
Lakes Region offers a dental assisting track that combines academic knowledge with clinical practice. Students develop the skills needed for both general dentistry and specialty practices.

5. New England School of Dental Assisting

Location: Claremont, NH
This private training school provides an accelerated dental assisting program with emphasis on practical skills, including taking impressions, prepping materials, and assisting with surgeries.

Program Comparison Table

Choosing the Right Program

When comparing dental assistant schools, focus on:

• Accreditation: CODA programs meet national standards.
• Hands-On Training: Look for programs with clinical rotations or externships.
• Radiography Training: Essential if you want to take x-rays in New Hampshire.
• Job Placement Help: Many schools work with local dental offices.

Certification and Expanded Duties in New Hampshire

While you can work as an "unregistered" dental assistant for basic tasks, certain procedures require Expanded Function Dental Assistant (EFDA) status. To qualify, you must:

• Complete a Board-approved EFDA program
• Pass required written and clinical exams
• Maintain continuing education as required by the Board

Tip: The Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) certifications, such as CDA, can make you more competitive and may be required by some employers.

Why Training Matters

Dental assisting is a skilled trade within healthcare. Without proper training, it's harder to find jobs that allow you to work to the full scope of your ability. Schools that prepare you for certification and include real clinical experiences give you a strong start.

Next Steps

If you're ready to enter dental assisting in New Hampshire:

1. Research the schools listed above.
2. Contact admissions to confirm program dates, costs, and entry requirements.
3. Ask if the program helps you meet the state's radiography standards.
4. Enroll and commit to completing all coursework and clinical hours.

A well-chosen school, combined with dedication and practice, can lead to a steady career helping patients and supporting dental teams.

Sources:
[^1] :New Hampshire Board of Dental Examiners - https://www.oplc.nh.gov/board-dental-examiners
[^2] :Commission on Dental Accreditation - https://coda.ada.org/

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