Best Dental Assistant Schools in North Dakota

If you want to become a dental assistant in North Dakota, your first step is choosing the right training program. Employers in the state look for candidates who can work safely, follow dental office procedures, and meet state requirements for expanded functions. The good news is, North Dakota has several reputable schools and programs to get you career-ready.

How Dental Assisting Works in North Dakota

In North Dakota, dental assistants can work without a license for basic duties, but performing expanded functions like polishing teeth or taking x-rays requires additional training and certification. This means you need the right education before you can qualify for those higher-responsibility roles.

According to the North Dakota State Board of Dental Examiners, certain dental assisting tasks require completion of an accredited program and passing a board-approved exam.

Steps to Become a Dental Assistant in North Dakota

Here's a simple overview of the process:

1. Choose an accredited dental assisting program - Look for CODA (Commission on Dental Accreditation) approval.
2. Complete classroom and hands-on training - This covers dental procedures, patient care, and safety.
3. Earn CPR certification - Most employers and the state board require it.
4. Pass required exams - This may include the DANB (Dental Assisting National Board) exam for certain advanced functions.
5. Apply for state credentials if performing expanded duties - Submit proof of your training and exam results to the North Dakota State Board of Dental Examiners.

Best Dental Assistant Schools in North Dakota

Below are schools and programs with strong reputations in the state. Always verify details with the school and state board before enrolling, since requirements can change.

1. North Dakota State College of Science (NDSCS) - Wahpeton

• Program Type: 1-year diploma or 2-year AAS degree
• Accreditation: CODA-accredited
• Highlights: Small class sizes, on-campus dental clinic, and clinical rotations with local dental offices.
• Website: https://www.ndscs.edu

2. Bismarck State College (BSC) - Bismarck

• Program Type: Diploma with optional expanded function training
• Accreditation: Regionally accredited (check with BSC for CODA status)
• Highlights: Flexible scheduling, lab simulation equipment, partnership with area dentists for externships.
• Website: https://bismarckstate.edu

3. Lake Region State College - Devils Lake

• Program Type: Certificate and associate degree options
• Accreditation: Regional accreditation, dental assisting program meets state requirements
• Highlights: Focus on rural dental care needs and hands-on experience in real clinics.
• Website: https://www.lrsc.edu

4. Dakota College at Bottineau

• Program Type: 1-year certificate with pathways to additional training
• Accreditation: Check program's CODA approval status before applying
• Highlights: Small campus environment and emphasis on entry-level dental skills.
• Website: https://www.dakotacollege.edu

Comparing Dental Assistant Programs in North Dakota

Tip: CODA accreditation is important if you want to take the DANB exams for expanded functions.

Certification and Licensing Requirements

If you want to perform expanded functions in North Dakota, you must comply with the North Dakota State Board of Dental Examiners requirements:

"Dental assistants who perform expanded functions must complete a Board-approved course and pass an examination in each function." - North Dakota State Board of Dental Examiners

Common expanded functions include:

• Coronal polishing
• Sealant application
• Dental radiography

To qualify, you typically must:

• Complete CODA-accredited training in each function
• Hold current CPR certification
• Pass a DANB or state-approved exam

You can read more details directly from the North Dakota State Board of Dental Examiners.

What to Look for in a Dental Assistant School

When comparing schools, focus on:

• Accreditation - CODA accreditation will open more opportunities.
• Hands-on training - Ensure the program provides real-world clinical experience.
• Exam preparation - Some programs include review sessions for certification exams.
• Employment connections - Partnerships with local dentists can speed up your job search.

Tips for Succeeding in Your Training

• Show up on time and ready to work-dental offices value reliability.
• Practice infection control until it's second nature.
• Pay attention during radiography training; x-ray safety is a priority in all offices.
• Keep studying after graduation. New techniques and materials are always being introduced.

Next Steps

Here's what you should do if you're ready to start:

1. Research each school listed above and request program details.
2. Confirm CODA accreditation before making a decision.
3. Ask about tuition, schedules, and externship sites.
4. Plan for your DANB or state exams if you want to perform expanded functions.

Choosing the right dental assistant program in North Dakota is the foundation for a strong career in the field. Start by contacting two or three schools today to see which one's program fits your goals and schedule. The sooner you begin training, the sooner you can start working in a dental office.

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