Best Dental Assistant Schools in Columbia, South Carolina

Updated October 21, 2025

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Dental assistant programs in Columbia, South Carolina can get you career-ready in under two years. Focus on schools that blend classroom instruction, chairside labs, and clinical rotations so you graduate with the skills local dentists expect.

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Dental Assistant Training in Columbia

  • Look for CODA-accredited programs or state-approved dental assisting certificates.
  • Confirm the curriculum covers radiography, infection control, impressions, and chairside skills.
  • Ask about externships with practices in Columbia or nearby communities so you can log real patient hours.
  • Find out how the school prepares you for DANB exams and any state-specific credentials.

Local Dental Assistant Programs Within 100 Miles of Columbia:

School Location Distance
Southeastern College-Columbia Columbia, SC 3.8 miles
Southeastern Esthetics Institute Elgin, SC 6.5 miles
Kenneth Shuler School of Cosmetology and Nails-Columbia Columbia, SC 13.1 miles
Midlands Technical College West Columbia, SC 13.5 miles
LeGrand Institute of Cosmetology Inc Camden, SC 23.4 miles
University of South Carolina-Sumter Sumter, SC 31.2 miles
Central Carolina Technical College Sumter, SC 31.4 miles
Orangeburg Calhoun Technical College Orangeburg, SC 34.2 miles
Barber Tech Academy Orangeburg, SC 37.7 miles
University of South Carolina-Lancaster Lancaster, SC 48.8 miles

Certification and Licensing in South Carolina

  • Review the latest rules from the state dental board for radiography permits and expanded duties.
  • Track your clinical competencies so they count toward on-the-job requirements and specialty certifications.
  • Keep CPR/BLS, OSHA, and HIPAA training current—most employers require up-to-date cards at hire.

Questions to Ask Schools

  • What percentage of students finish on time and pass certification exams?
  • How does the program support job placement with local dental offices?
  • Are there evening, weekend, or hybrid schedules for working students?
  • Which textbooks, uniforms, or lab fees are included in tuition—and what costs extra?

Next Steps


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