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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
Community College of Vermont
📍
Montpelier, VT
•In-state option
Located in Montpelier, VT Community College of Vermont is a institution focused on career-ready training. Signature programs include Accounting Technology, Bookkeeper, and Computer Support Specialist.
Comparison table of Vermont dental assisting programs
School / Program
Location
Length
Accreditation
Clinical Hours
Vermont Technical College
Williston
9 months
CODA
Yes
Community College of Vermont
Statewide*
~12 months
Varies
Yes
Regional Technical Centers
Various VT towns
School year
Varies
Yes
*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:
Choose a training program
Select a CODA-accredited program if you plan to earn national certification.
Complete coursework and clinical training
This covers general dental assisting, radiography, infection control, and chairside techniques.
Earn basic credentials
This may include CPR certification and, for some roles, taking the DANB Radiation Health and Safety (RHS) exam.
Apply for entry-level jobs
Many dental offices hire recent graduates and provide additional on-the-job training.
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 employment outcomes. (Verify with the school)
Support for national certification exams
Also consider location, schedule, and tuition. Some programs may offer payment options or payment plans.
Job Outlook in Vermont
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects ongoing hiring needs 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.
