Dental Assistant Training Program

Train for a career that helps others smile with Fortis

Ready to invest in YOU? The Dental Assistant Training Program at Fortis is specifically designed to help you quickly gain proficiency in the dental procedures and techniques you will need to secure an entry-level position in the healthcare industry as a dental assistant. 

What does a dental assistant do? 

Dental Assistants perform a variety of patient care, office, and laboratory duties. From sterilizing and disinfecting instruments and equipment to preparing the tools and materials required to treat each patient, dental assistants keep a dentist’s office running smoothly and efficiently. During dental procedures, assistants work chairside to provide assistance for the Dentist and the Dental Hygienist. The Fortis Dental Assistant Training Program curriculum provides a foundation in the health sciences and hands-on training in using the technology necessary to perform tasks typically performed by a Dental Assistant. 

What does it take to become a dental assistant?

To enroll in the Fortis Dental Assistant training program, applicants must meet the following requirements:  

  • Hold a high school diploma, General Educational Development (GED) certificate, or equivalent 
  • Be at least 17 years old at the start of studies 
  • Submit an application form 
  • Participate in an interview with administrative staff 

Why Fortis?

  • Less time to earn a degree and start employment

    Less time to earn a degree and start employment

  • Career-focused classes

    Career-focused classes

  • Hands-on clinical training

    Hands-on clinical training

  • Flexible class schedules

    Flexible class schedules

  • Accredited programs

    Accredited programs

  • Financial aid for those who qualify

    Financial aid for those who qualify

  • Career services

    Career services

  • Connections to local employers

    Connections to local employers

What does a Dental Assistant training program at Fortis look like?

  • Earn a diploma in 48 weeks 
  • Participate in classroom lectures to gain a foundation in the health sciences
  • Experience hands-on training in the lab, covering strategies and techniques that directly support dentists in both treatment and examination rooms 
  • Learn how to provide educational, preventative, and clinical therapeutic services to patients as a promoter of healthy dental hygiene
  • Learn from passionate, experienced instructors with real-world skills and a dedication to student success 
  • Become eligible upon completion of the program to take the Dental Assisting National Board’s (DANB) Radiation Health and Safety (RHS) Exam, and the Infection Control Examination (ICE) Exam. Graduates will also be eligible to participate in the Expanded Functions Preparation and certification course and the Expanded Functions Dental Assisting (EFDA) certification exam. *

What You’ll Learn

  • How to operate clinical and diagnostic equipment found in most modern dental offices, including dental units and chairs, oral evacuation equipment, oxygen tanks, personal computers, ultrasonic units and X-ray units.

What career opportunities are available for dental assistants? 

Graduates of the Fortis Dental Assistant Training Program can pursue entry-level positions with:

  • Private and group dental practices
  • Specialty dental practice 
  • Mobile dental units
  • Insurance companies
  • Hospitals
  • Nursing homes
  • Dental school clinics
  • Public and private health facilities

What is the job outlook for Dental Assistants?

National job outlook data provides insight into career trends across the United States, including which occupations are growing, in demand, and expected to offer employment opportunities. This information is sourced from Lightcast and includes data from O*NET Online, a comprehensive resource developed by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA) that describes job duties, skills, and workforce trends. Data is used under the CC BY 4.0 license.

Position
Entry-Level Salary Range
Job Growth
Dental Assistants
$35,511
+6.0%
Perform limited clinical duties under the direction of a dentist. Clinical duties may include equipment preparation and sterilization, preparing patients for treatment, assisting the dentist during treatment, and providing patients with instructions for oral healthcare procedures. May perform administrative duties such as scheduling appointments, maintaining medical records, billing, and coding information for insurance purposes.
O*NET® is a registered trademark of USDOL/ETA. Any modifications to this data have been made by Lightcast and have not been reviewed, approved, or endorsed by USDOL/ETA.

Available Dental Assistant Training Program Locations

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