Long Island offers two distinct dental assistant programs, each tailored to meet different needs and career goals. Whether you’re seeking an intensive program with licensure opportunities or a flexible, budget-friendly option, you can find the right fit.
- Stony Brook School of Dental Medicine: A 10-month program costing $6,349, featuring classroom instruction, clinical rotations at prestigious facilities, and preparation for New York State licensure.
- Dental Auxiliary Training Center (DATC): A 4-month program costing $1,995, offering evening classes, hands-on training, and career readiness workshops, designed for adult learners.
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Explore the details of each program to decide which one aligns best with your career aspirations and schedule.
Stony Brook School of Dental Medicine
The Dental Assistant Program at Stony Brook School of Dental Medicine is a 10-month certificate program costing $6,349. It includes classroom instruction, laboratory work, and hands-on clinical training at the School of Dental Medicine and external sites like the Long Island State Veterans Home and the Shinnecock Indian Health Center.
The curriculum covers essential skills for dental assisting, including infection control, radiology, chairside assisting, and specialty procedures. Students gain proficiency in tasks such as taking medical histories, placing and removing orthodontic bands, and taking impressions for diagnostic casts. Graduates are eligible to pursue New York State licensure as dental assistants, which provides broader job opportunities and higher earning potential.
This program emphasizes real-world preparation, offering clinical rotations at external healthcare facilities. Admissions require a completed application, a personal essay, three recommendation letters, and a high school diploma or GED. Additional fees for textbooks, uniforms, and clinical liability insurance apply. The program does not qualify for financial aid but offers a Time Option Payment Plan for flexibility.
The comprehensive training prepares students for roles in private dental practices, hospitals, and public health organizations, making it a strong choice for those seeking extensive hands-on experience and licensure readiness.
Dental Auxiliary Training Center
The Dental Auxiliary Training Center (DATC) offers a 4-month Dental Assistant program at two Long Island locations: Nassau and Suffolk. The program costs $1,995, with payment plans available, and is designed for adult learners seeking evening classes to accommodate busy schedules. Classes are taught by state-licensed instructors with over 25 years of experience, ensuring high-quality, hands-on training in small groups.
The curriculum includes core dental assisting skills such as dental terminology, radiology, infection control, sterilization, and four-handed dentistry. Students also learn about preventive oral hygiene, dental anatomy, managing dental emergencies, and other essential topics. All required materials, including textbooks, are included in the program cost.
Graduates earn a certificate of achievement upon meeting attendance, coursework, and exam requirements. The program also includes monthly employment readiness workshops to help students secure jobs after graduation. Admission requires applicants to be at least 17 years old, possess a high school diploma or GED, and complete a phone interview.
This program is ideal for those seeking an affordable, focused training pathway with flexible scheduling options and practical career preparation.
If you’re deciding between the Stony Brook School of Dental Medicine and the Dental Auxiliary Training Center (DATC), here are the key differences to consider based on your goals and circumstances:
Stony Brook School of Dental Medicine
- Duration and Depth: This program spans 10 months and offers a comprehensive curriculum, including classroom instruction, hands-on lab work, and clinical rotations at prestigious external sites like the Long Island State Veterans Home. It’s ideal if you’re looking for an immersive and rigorous training experience.
- Licensure Opportunity: Graduates are eligible to pursue New York State licensure, which can lead to broader job opportunities and higher earning potential.
- Cost: At $6,349, it’s significantly more expensive, with additional costs for textbooks, uniforms, and liability insurance. However, the program’s focus on extensive clinical experience and licensure preparation justifies the investment for many.
- Schedule and Commitment: Classes are held on weekdays, including clinical rotations, so this program demands a greater time commitment, making it suitable for those who can dedicate full-time effort to their training.
Dental Auxiliary Training Center (DATC)
- Duration and Flexibility: DATC offers a shorter program at 4 months with evening classes, making it more manageable for adults balancing work or other responsibilities.
- Cost: At $1,995, it’s a much more affordable option, with payment plans available. All materials are included, which minimizes additional expenses.
- Focus: While the curriculum covers essential dental assisting skills, it’s less extensive compared to Stony Brook. However, it includes practical career support through monthly employment readiness workshops.
- Target Audience: DATC is designed for individuals seeking a quick and practical entry into the workforce without the need for licensure.
Which Program Should You Choose?
- Choose Stony Brook if you want an in-depth program, access to clinical rotations, and the ability to pursue state licensure for advanced career opportunities.
- Opt for DATC if you’re looking for an affordable, fast-paced program with flexible scheduling and solid foundational training.
Your decision depends on your career goals, budget, and schedule flexibility.