Best Dental Assistant Schools in Virginia

Updated August 13, 2025

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If you want a stable job where you work with people and help improve their health, becoming a dental assistant in Virginia is a solid choice. You don't need a four-year degree, but you do need proper training and certification to find work in most offices.

Here's what you need to know to choose the right school, meet Virginia's requirements, and start a career in dental assisting.

Dental Assistant Requirements in Virginia

Virginia recognizes different levels of dental assisting. The training and credentials you need depend on the tasks you'll perform.

According to the Virginia Board of Dentistry, dental assistants performing expanded duties must hold proper certification from the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB).

Basic dental assisting jobs may allow on-the-job training, but most employers prefer graduates of an accredited program. If you plan to take x-rays, assist with chairside procedures, or perform expanded functions, you'll need an approved program and exam.

Steps to Become a Dental Assistant in Virginia

  1. Choose your training level - Decide if you want to work as an entry-level Dental Assistant I or Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) who can perform expanded duties.
  2. Enroll in an approved program - Make sure it's accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) or recognized by the Virginia Board of Dentistry.
  3. Complete coursework and clinical training - This usually includes dental sciences, radiology safety, infection control, and patient care.
  4. Pass required exams - Most advanced positions require passing the DANB CDA or state-specific exams.
  5. Maintain your certification - Keep up with continuing education requirements.

Best Dental Assistant Schools in Virginia

The following programs are known for meeting state standards, offering strong hands-on training, and preparing students for certification exams.

1. Northern Virginia Community College - Dental Assisting Program

  • Location: Springfield, VA
  • Program Length: 12 months
  • Format: Daytime, hands-on lab and clinical rotations
  • Notes: CODA-accredited, strong local dental office partnerships.

2. ECPI University - Medical Careers Institute

  • Location: Multiple VA campuses (Richmond, Virginia Beach, Newport News)
  • Program Length: 12 months diploma option
  • Notes: Fast-track, hands-on learning with simulated dental labs.

3. Fortis College - Dental Assisting Program

  • Location: Norfolk and Richmond, VA
  • Program Length: 9-12 months depending on schedule
  • Notes: Includes externship placements with local dental clinics.

4. Western Virginia Community College

  • Location: Roanoke, VA
  • Program Length: 1-year certificate
  • Notes: Affordable tuition, strong pass rates for DANB exams.

5. Tidewater Community College

  • Location: Virginia Beach, VA
  • Program Length: 12 months certificate program
  • Notes: CODA-accredited, strong ties to local dental community.

Tip: Always check each school's current accreditation status on the American Dental Association's CODA search tool.

Program Length Comparison

School / Program Location(s) Length Accreditation
Northern Virginia Community College Springfield 12 months CODA
ECPI University - MCI Richmond, Virginia Beach, Newport News 12 months CODA
Fortis College Norfolk, Richmond 9-12 months CODA
Western Virginia Community College Roanoke 12 months CODA
Tidewater Community College Virginia Beach 12 months CODA

What to Look for in a Virginia Dental Assistant Program

When comparing schools, focus on:

  • Accreditation - Ensures your program is recognized for certification.
  • Externships - Essential for real-world experience.
  • Certification prep - Programs should prepare you for DANB or state exams.
  • Flexible schedules - Evening or weekend classes may help if you work.

Licensing and Certification

Virginia doesn't require a license for all dental assistants, but certain functions require certification.

  • Dental Assistant I (DA I): Can perform basic supportive tasks. Many DA Is learn through on-the-job training.
  • Dental Assistant II (DA II): Can perform expanded functions but must complete an approved education program and pass the necessary exams.

The Virginia Board of Dentistry enforces these rules and offers detailed lists of permitted duties for each level. Always review their current regulations before enrolling in a program.

Source: Virginia Board of Dentistry

Getting Hired After Graduation

Completing an accredited program and passing exams makes you much more competitive. Most employers want assistants who can handle a range of responsibilities from sterilizing equipment to chairside assistance and patient communication.

Building a strong network during your externship often leads to job offers right after graduation.

Final Advice

If you're serious about becoming a dental assistant in Virginia, your best move is to:

  1. Decide which level of dental assisting you want to do
  2. Choose an accredited program from the list above
  3. Plan for your exam and certification process before you graduate

Contact the school admissions office to confirm current tuition, program start dates, and admission requirements. That way you can start your training confident that you're on the right track.

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