Best Dental Assistant Schools in Pennsylvania

Updated August 13, 2025

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Starting as a dental assistant can be a smart move if you want steady work, a hands-on role, and a career in healthcare without spending years in school. In Pennsylvania, there are several accredited programs that can prepare you to meet state requirements quickly. Here's what you need to know before you sign up.

What a Dental Assistant Does

Dental assistants work closely with dentists and patients. Daily tasks often include:

  • Preparing treatment rooms
  • Sterilizing instruments
  • Passing tools during procedures
  • Taking X-rays (with proper certification)
  • Handling patient scheduling and records

In Pennsylvania, certain duties-like radiography-require specific credentials approved by the Pennsylvania State Board of Dentistry.

Note: Under Pennsylvania law, you must complete training from a Board-approved program to perform radiographic procedures. 1

Steps to Become a Dental Assistant in Pennsylvania

The process is straightforward, but there are important requirements.

  1. Earn a High School Diploma or GED - This is the minimum entry requirement for all programs.
  2. Complete a Dental Assistant Training Program - Choose one accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) or recognized by the state board.
  3. Meet Expanded Function Requirements (Optional) - If you want to perform expanded duties, you must complete an EFDA (Expanded Function Dental Assistant) program and pass the required exams.
  4. Obtain X-ray Certification - Completing a recognized course in radiographic procedures is mandatory if your job duties include taking dental X-rays.
  5. Keep Your Skills Current - CE (continuing education) may be required for EFDA roles.

Best Accredited Dental Assistant Schools in Pennsylvania

The following programs have strong reputations and meet state guidelines for dental assistant training.

School Location Program Length Accreditation
Harcum College Bryn Mawr 10-12 months (certificate) CODA
Harrisburg Area Community College (HACC) Multiple campuses 1 year (diploma) CODA
Community College of Philadelphia Philadelphia 1 year (certificate) CODA
Manor College Jenkintown 2 years (Associate in EFDA) CODA
Greater Altoona Career & Technology Center Altoona 10 months (certificate) State-approved
Triangle Tech - Dental Assisting Program Greensburg 8-10 months State-approved

Tip: Always confirm current accreditation with the CODA directory before enrolling.

How to Choose the Right School

When comparing dental assistant programs in Pennsylvania, consider:

  • Accreditation - CODA accreditation ensures your certificate will be recognized for licensing.
  • Program Length - Shorter certificate programs can get you working sooner, while associate degrees offer more career flexibility.
  • Job Placement Support - Schools with internship opportunities and job placement services can help you enter the workforce faster.
  • Cost and Financial Aid - Check tuition rates and available grants or scholarships.
  • Location and Schedule - Evening or weekend classes may be available for working students.

Certification and Licensing in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania does not require a general license for basic dental assisting, but there are rules for specific functions.

Function Requirement Approving Authority
Basic Chairside Assisting High school diploma and on-the-job or school training Employer dentist
Radiography (Taking X-rays) Completion of a Board-approved radiography program PA State Board of Dentistry
Expanded Function Dental Assistant EFDA program completion + state board application and approval PA State Board of Dentistry

Reminder: Only EFDAs can place and finish fillings, cement crowns, and perform other expanded duties under direct dentist supervision.

Getting Hired as a Dental Assistant

Once you've finished training, you can apply for jobs in:

  • Private dental offices
  • Specialty clinics (orthodontics, oral surgery, periodontics)
  • Public health clinics
  • Dental schools or teaching hospitals

Many employers prefer candidates who have completed formal training and radiography certification, even if not legally required for all tasks.

Continuing Education and Career Growth

After gaining experience, you can:

  • Train to become an Expanded Function Dental Assistant for higher responsibility roles.
  • Move into office management or dental sales.
  • Continue studies toward becoming a dental hygienist.

Choosing a school with pathways to EFDA or hygiene programs can give you more options later.

Summary and Next Steps

If you want a hands-on healthcare career without years in school, dental assisting in Pennsylvania is worth considering. Here's your action plan:

  • Pick a CODA-accredited or state-approved program from the list above.
  • Make sure the program covers radiography requirements if you plan to take X-rays.
  • Plan ahead for potential EFDA certification to expand your job opportunities.

Once you've completed training, you can move directly into a dental office role and start building your career in oral health.

  1. Pennsylvania State Board of Dentistry - Radiology Certification Requirements ↩

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