Best Dental Assistant Schools in Vermont

If you want to work in dental care without spending years in school, becoming a dental assistant is a solid path. In Vermont, there are a few good training options that prepare you for the job and help you meet state credentialing requirements.

Dental assistants handle everything from patient prep to sterilizing instruments and assisting during procedures. Some in Vermont also take on limited expanded functions with extra training and certification.

Here's what you need to know to get started.

Vermont Dental Assistant Training Requirements

Vermont does not have a separate state licensing process for entry-level dental assistants. However, for certain duties such as radiography, infection control, or expanded functions, you need recognized training and credentials.

According to the Vermont Board of Dental Examiners, dental assistants performing radiographic procedures must complete an approved radiography course and hold a current certification.

Common requirements in Vermont include:

• Completion of a dental assisting program (CODA-accredited preferred)
• CPR certification from an approved provider
• On-the-job training under a licensed dentist
• Passing national certification exams for certain duties

Best Accredited Dental Assistant Schools in Vermont

The safest career path is to choose a program accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA). These programs meet consistent quality standards and prepare you for national exams such as the DANB (Dental Assisting National Board) certifications.

Here are the top options in Vermont:

1. Vermont Technical College - Dental Assisting Certificate

• Location: Williston, VT
• Program Length: 9 months
• Format: In-person classroom, lab, and clinical experience
• Highlights: CODA-accredited, includes radiography and infection control training, externships in local dental practices.
• Website: Vermont Technical College Dental Assisting

2. Community College of Vermont (Partnered Dental Assisting Track)

• Location: Multiple campuses with clinical training in local dental offices
• Program Length: Typically 1 year part-time
• Highlights: Mix of classroom instruction and externships; may partner with local dentists for hands-on training.
• Website: Community College of Vermont

3. Regional Technical Centers (High School to Career Programs)

Some Vermont regional technical centers offer dental assisting tracks for high school students as part of career and technical education. Completion can lead to entry-level employment and a pathway to certification.

• Examples:
  • Hannaford Career Center
  • Stafford Technical Center

Tip: Always confirm with the school that the program will make you eligible for the duties you intend to perform in Vermont.

Comparison Table of Vermont Dental Assisting Programs

*Classroom may be online or at multiple campuses, but clinical hours are completed locally.

Steps to Become a Dental Assistant in Vermont

You can enter the field in more than one way, but this is the most common route:

1. Choose a training program
   Select a CODA-accredited program if you plan to earn national certification.

2. Complete coursework and clinical training
   This covers general dental assisting, radiography, infection control, and chairside techniques.

3. Earn basic credentials
   This may include CPR certification and, for some roles, taking the DANB Radiation Health and Safety (RHS) exam.

4. Apply for entry-level jobs
   Many dental offices hire recent graduates and provide additional on-the-job training.

5. Pursue expanded functions if desired
   With further training and exams, dental assistants in Vermont can perform more advanced tasks.

National Certification for Vermont Dental Assistants

While not required for all positions, being a Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) through the Dental Assisting National Board can improve your job prospects. To qualify, you must graduate from a CODA-accredited program or meet work experience requirements, and pass the CDA exam.

CDA Exam Areas:

• General Chairside Assisting
• Radiation Health and Safety
• Infection Control

What to Look for in a Vermont Dental Assisting Program

When comparing schools, focus on:

• Accreditation status (CODA is preferred)
• Access to clinical placements
• Graduation and job placement rates
• Support for national certification exams

Also consider location, schedule, and tuition. Some programs may offer financial aid or payment plans.

Job Outlook in Vermont

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects steady demand for dental assistants due to increased focus on preventive dental care. Vermont's smaller population means fewer training programs, but also less competition for quality graduates.

Dental assistants often work in:

• Private dental offices
• Community health clinics
• Specialty dental practices such as orthodontics or oral surgery

Summary and Next Steps

If you want to start a healthcare career quickly, dental assisting is a practical choice. Vermont offers limited but solid training options, with Vermont Technical College being the primary CODA-accredited program. Completing one of these programs sets you up for both entry-level work and future advancement.

Your next step:
Contact Vermont Technical College or another program that fits your needs. Confirm their curriculum meets the qualifications required for the duties you plan to perform. If you're still in high school, check with your technical center about dental assisting programs that can start your training early.

Sources:

1. Vermont Board of Dental Examiners - Rules
2. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics - Dental Assistants
3. Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA)

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