Dental Assistant Program
Located in Jacksonville, Florida, Concorde’s Dental Assistant Program offers a practical path for individuals interested in joining the dental field. This 9-month diploma program focuses on equipping students with foundational skills and hands-on experience, blending both theoretical knowledge and clinical practice. Designed for career readiness, the program includes a rigorous curriculum and a substantial externship component that ensures students graduate ready to support dentists, hygienists, and patients effectively.
Program Highlights
- Hands-On Learning in a Clinical Setting
One of the primary strengths of the Concorde program is its emphasis on hands-on training. The program covers critical aspects of dental care, including taking and processing x-rays, maintaining sterilization protocols, managing patient care, and chairside assisting. Concorde’s students spend a significant portion of their training in real clinical environments, allowing them to put their theoretical knowledge into practice. This approach helps students feel more prepared and confident as they transition into the workforce. - Extensive Externship for Real-World Experience
Concorde includes a 230-hour externship as a core part of its curriculum, giving students invaluable real-world experience. During the externship, students work in active dental practices alongside professionals, gaining exposure to day-to-day operations and patient interactions. This practical component is essential for developing the confidence and skills needed to excel as a dental assistant. - Flexible Blended Learning Options
Understanding the need for flexibility, Concorde offers a mix of online and on-campus classes. Students can complete portions of their coursework online, allowing them to balance studies with other commitments, such as work or family. In-person lab hours provide hands-on experience in areas like dental radiology and patient care, ensuring students receive a well-rounded education.
Prerequisites
To apply for Concorde’s Dental Assistant Program, prospective students should meet the following requirements:
- High School Diploma or Equivalent: Applicants must have completed high school or hold a GED.
- Background Check: A clean background check is required, as dental assistants work closely with patients and handle sensitive information.
- CPR Certification: Students must be certified in CPR before beginning the program. Concorde offers on-campus CPR training to meet this requirement.
Curriculum Overview
Concorde’s dental assistant curriculum is designed to cover a wide range of essential topics in dentistry. With a balance of classroom theory and practical labs, the program ensures students gain a solid foundation in the field. Here’s a breakdown of some core areas covered in the curriculum:
- Introduction to Dental Assisting and Dental Terminology: This foundational course introduces students to the language of dentistry, covering basic dental procedures and terminology.
- Dental Specialties: Students learn about various specialties within dentistry, such as orthodontics, oral surgery, and endodontics, broadening their understanding of different dental practices.
- Materials and Procedures: This section covers dental materials used in procedures, including the safe handling, mixing, and application of materials like composites and impression compounds.
- Patient Care and Management: Dental assistants play an essential role in patient interactions. This course teaches students how to take patient histories, manage appointments, and support patient care during visits.
- Dental Radiology: Radiology training is a crucial part of the curriculum. Students learn to take dental x-rays safely, adhering to health standards and protocols to minimize patient exposure to radiation.
- Diagnostics and Orthodontics: Students gain a basic understanding of diagnostic techniques and orthodontics, covering tasks like taking dental impressions and recording patient measurements.
Externship Experience
The externship is a standout feature of Concorde’s program. Over 230 hours, students work in real dental offices and clinics, gaining exposure to various aspects of the dental field. The externship allows students to assist with chairside procedures, manage patient care, and even support front office tasks. This hands-on training helps students apply what they’ve learned in class and develop practical skills in a supervised environment. Additionally, the externship is a valuable networking opportunity, often leading to job offers or recommendations from mentors.
Certification and Career Preparation
The Dental Assistant Program at Concorde is approved by the Florida State Board of Dentistry, which enables graduates to obtain certification in expanded duties and radiology. This certification gives graduates a competitive edge, as they are qualified to perform a wider range of duties within a dental office. After completing the program, graduates are eligible to sit for the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) exams, opening pathways to further certification and specialization if desired.
Upon graduation, students are prepared for entry-level roles as dental assistants in various settings, including private practices, specialty clinics, and cosmetic dentistry offices. Concorde’s emphasis on both front-office and clinical skills ensures graduates are versatile, with the ability to manage patient appointments, process billing, and assist during dental procedures.
Financial Aid Options
Concorde understands that financing an education can be a concern, so the school offers several options to make the program accessible. Financial aid is available for those who qualify, and students are encouraged to speak with Concorde’s financial aid advisors to explore grants, scholarships, and payment plans that can help cover tuition costs. This support helps reduce financial barriers, allowing more students to pursue a career in dental assisting.
Why Concorde?
Concorde’s Dental Assistant Program stands out for its practical training approach, flexible scheduling, and commitment to career readiness. The combination of classroom learning, lab work, and an extensive externship ensures that graduates are well-prepared for the dental field. However, the program’s intensity and time commitment, including weekend classes and the need for CPR certification, may require a strong commitment to succeed. For those ready to immerse themselves, Concorde provides a thorough, supportive pathway to a rewarding career in dental assisting.
| Category | Description |
| Cost | Not specified (refer to campus catalog) |
| Program Duration | 9 months |
| Class Schedules | Full-time, online components available |
| Classes Offered | Dental Assisting with chairside skills, patient care, radiology, and dental specialties |
| Admission Requirements | High school diploma or GED required; background check and drug screening may apply |
| Online Classes? | Yes, certain components available online |
| Job Placement? | Offers real-world externships and potential job placement assistance |
| Financial Aid Options | Available to those who qualify |
| Location | 7259 Salisbury Rd Suite 120, Jacksonville, FL 32256 |
| Phone | (904) 515-5518 |
| Website | Concorde Dental Assisting Program |