If you’re considering a career in dental assisting, Newark offers four distinct programs to fit a variety of needs and goals. Each program provides specialized training to prepare students for entry-level roles in dentistry, but they vary in cost, format, and duration. Whether you’re a high school student exploring free opportunities, an adult seeking hands-on training, or someone needing the flexibility of online learning, there’s a program designed for you. Explore these options to determine which pathway aligns best with your career aspirations.
- Quality Dental School of Technology: Best for those seeking comprehensive online training over 10 months with flexible schedules. Costs are relatively high at $24,953, but it also prepares students for X-ray licensure. Ideal for those needing GI Bill benefits or financial aid.
- GS Dental Academy: Perfect for those wanting hands-on training in a professional dental office. This 4-month program focuses on radiology and patient care. Classes are held one day per week, making it great for busy learners.
- Central High School Dental Academy: A free program for high school students with a focus on certifications and internships at places like Rutgers Dental School. Spans the high school years and offers college credit opportunities. Ideal for young learners aiming for entry-level dental careers.
- New Jersey City University (NJCU): A 12-month online program costing $2,495, offering flexibility and affordability. Covers essential skills, includes Dentrix software training, and prepares students for national certifications. Ideal for those starting on a budget.
Featured Schools
Each program is tailored to different needs, from flexible online learning to hands-on experience and affordability. Choose based on your goals, schedule, and budget.
Quality Dental School of Technology
The Dental Assistant program at Quality Dental School of Technology is a 10-month online course costing $24,953. It trains students in essential dental assisting skills, including infection control, anatomy, sterilization, and chairside assistance.
The program emphasizes practical application, critical thinking, and real-world problem-solving through interactive online classes. Graduates are prepared for tasks like dental charting, taking impressions, and assisting with restorative procedures, with licensed assistants eligible to handle X-rays.
Admissions require a high school diploma or GED, and the program accepts GI Bill benefits. Financial aid and customized curricula are available, making this a flexible option for students seeking a detailed, career-ready training program in dental assisting.
GS Dental Academy
GS Dental Academy in Springfield, NJ offers a 4-month Dental Assisting and Radiology program taught one day per week in a real-life dental office setting. Under the supervision of Dr. Sally Alkamary, students receive hands-on training in dental radiology, infection control, four-handed dentistry, and patient care.
The program prepares students to take the Radiation Health and Safety exam, qualifying them for licensure as a Dental Radiologic Technologist (LDRT) in New Jersey.
Graduates earn a Certificate of Completion and gain practical experience to excel in dental assisting roles, making this program ideal for those seeking focused, hands-on training in a professional environment.
Central High School
The Dental Academy at Central High School offers a free program for high school students, focusing on preparing them for entry-level roles in dentistry. The curriculum spans multiple years, starting with foundational courses like the history of dentistry and dental science, progressing to advanced topics such as oral anatomy, infection control, and cross-contamination prevention.
Students gain practical experience through internships at Rutgers School of Dental Medicine and hands-on learning opportunities with local dental partners. The program emphasizes certifications, including AMP (Anatomy, Morphology, and Physiology), ICE (Infection Control Exam), and CPR. Senior-year students can earn college credits and participate in community service projects.
Key skills include patient preparation, assisting during procedures, sterilizing equipment, dental record management, and taking impressions. Graduates are eligible for certifications such as the DANB (Dental Association National Board) and can pursue roles like Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) or Registered Dental Assistant (RDA).
With partnerships like Rutgers, Delta Dental of New Jersey, and Essex County College, the program provides strong career pathways for students interested in dentistry.
New Jersey City University
New Jersey City University offers a 12-month online Clinical Dental Assistant program for $2,495, covering 280 hours of training. The course includes infection control, radiology, patient care, dental materials, and specialty procedures like pediatric dentistry and orthodontics. Students also learn administrative skills, including dental record management with Dentrix software.
Tuition includes instructional materials, and the self-paced format allows flexibility to complete the course within a year. Graduates can pursue certifications through the Dental Assistant National Board, making this program ideal for those seeking a flexible, entry-level pathway into dental assisting.