The 8 Best Dental Assistant Programs in Las Vegas, NV (2026 Update)
Las Vegas is home to a thriving healthcare sector, creating strong demand for qualified dental assistants in the area. Luckily, aspiring dental assistants can choose from a variety of highly-ranked training programs across Las Vegas to gain the skills needed for this growing field.
This article profiles the top 8 dental assistant schools and training programs in Las Vegas, with key details on curriculum, program lengths, credentials earned, career resources, and more to help you find the right fit.
Overview of Dental Assistant Training Basics
Before diving into the programs, here is a quick primer on dental assistant training and education:
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Formal training: Dental assistants typically need a 1 year certificate or diploma program, which includes lab and clinical practice. Some assistants earn an Associate‘s degree.
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Credentials: Earning credentials from the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) boosts job prospects and earning potential. Common credentials are CDA (Certified Dental Assistant) and COA (Certified Orthodontic Assistant).
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Skills gained: Programs teach skills in areas like patient care, lab techniques, dental imaging, office procedures, and materials preparation.
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Job outlook in Nevada: Employment for dental assistants is projected to grow 25.4% in Nevada through 2026, much faster than average. (Source)
Now let‘s explore the top dental assistant programs in Las Vegas!
1. Carrington College
Carrington College offers a comprehensive 38-week dental assisting certificate program across its Las Vegas campus. Graduates earn multiple DANB credentials.
Program Highlights:
- Earn 3 credentials: CDA, RDA (Registered Dental Assistant), and Radiation Health & Safety
- 38-week program with externship
- Curriculum covers chairside assisting, lab techniques, x-rays, office administration
- Hands-on training in on-site dental lab
- Career support with resume review, interview practice, job databases
Cost Details:
- Tuition: $18,392 + fees
Learn More: Carrington College Dental Assisting Program
2. Pima Medical Institute
PMI offers a 38-week dental assistant certificate program with a focus on gaining practical experience in PMI‘s dental clinics and labs. Students take external exams for DANB credentials.
Highlights:
- 880 hour program
- DANB test prep and credential exams included
- Clinical experience at PMI‘s on-campus dental clinic with live patients
- Training in digital dentistry and CAD/CAM systems
- Job placement assistance with career prep course
Details:
- Tuition: $15,000
- Program Length: 880 hours over 38 weeks
Learn More: PMI‘s Dental Assistant Program
3. Milan Institute
Built around hands-on training, Milan Institute‘s 36-week dental assistant program includes experience in their working dental office. This prepares students to transition seamlessly into assistant roles.
Why Choose Milan Institute?
- CDAs credential exam prep and testing included
- 216 hours spent in practicing dental office
- Small classes with 1:15 teacher to student ratio
- Training in digital x-rays, CAD software, patient scheduling, and other office administration
Program Details:
- Tuition: $15,095
- 36-week length
Learn More: Milan Institute‘s Dental Assistant Page
4. Southeastern College
At Southeastern‘s Las Vegas campus, students can earn a Dental Assisting diploma in just 32 weeks. The program includes in-demand credentials as well as career assistance.
Notable Features:
- Earn CDA and CPR/BLS credentials
- Practice management training using leading dental software
- Job placement support with interview and resume workshops
Details:
- Tuition: $13,619
- Program Length: 32 weeks
Learn More: SEC Dental Assistant Diploma Program
5. College of Southern Nevada
CSN offers a two-semester Dental Assisting Professions program teaching supporting skills alongside clinical experience. Graduates take the CDA exam.
Benefits of CSN‘s Program
- Only program in Nevada accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation
- Low tuition as public community college
- Hands-on learning in on-campus dental clinic
- Small class sizes
Vital Info:
- In-state tuition: $3,764
- Program Length: 9 months
- Credential: Take DANB CDA exam after graduating
Learn More: CSN‘s Dental Assisting Program
6. Academy of Professional Development
This hybrid program combines self-paced online learning with in-person labs and clinical work for flexible training options. Students gain patient experience at local dental clinics.
Hybrid Model Benefits:
- Online courses allow working while training
- In-person training provides valued hands-on work
- 215 hour externship in partner dental offices
- Prep to take DANB exams for credentials
Details:
- Tuition: $12,999
- Program Length: 32 weeks
Learn More: Academy of Professional Development Dental Assisting
Program Comparison Table
| Program | Length | Tuition | Credentials Earned |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carrington College | 38 weeks | $18,392 | CDA, RDA and Radiation Health & Safety |
| Pima Medical Institute | 38 weeks | $15,000 | Preparation for DANB exams |
| Milan Institute | 36 weeks | $15,095 | Test prep and sit for CDA exam |
| Southeastern College | 32 weeks | $13,619 | Earn CDA and CPR/BLS certifications |
| College of Southern Nevada | 9 months | $3,764 (in-state) | Take DANB CDA post-graduation |
| Academy of Professional Development | 32 weeks | $12,999 | Prep for DANB credential exams |
Key Takeaways When Choosing a Program
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Hands-on training: Look for a program providing extensive clinical hours, ideally in an on-campus dental clinic. This experience is invaluable.
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Credentials: Most employers require a CDA credential. Be sure your program prepares you for and includes official DANB exams.
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Teacher attention: Smaller class sizes allow more personalized teaching and attention. Student to teacher ratio varies greatly, so inquire about class sizes.
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Career assistance: Many programs offer resumed reviews, career prep courses, job databases, and other placement help. This support can prove very useful.
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Convenience: Consider part-time options, length of program, distance to campus, and other convenience factors that fit your situation.
Jobs Outlook for Dental Assistants in Nevada
The job growth projected for dental assistants in Nevada is 25.4% between 2020 – 2026, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This is over 3x the national average for all occupations!
The average entry level salary for dental assistants in Nevada is $39,987. With experience and credentials, salaries can reach up to $52k.
Top employers include private dental offices, clinics, hospitals, and insurance companies. Job prospects remain very strong statewide.
Find the Best Las Vegas Dental Assistant Program For You!
I hope this guide provided a helpful introduction to the top dental assistant training programs available across Las Vegas. All of these schools offer career-ready training, valuable hands-on work, and credential exam preparation to equip graduates for success.
Take time to research each program thoroughly, visit campuses if possible, and decide which school best matches your career goals, budget, and preferences around teaching methods, program length, location, and more.
Las Vegas provides wonderful opportunities to jump start your dental assisting career. With demand growing for assistants, securing skills-focused training from one of these exceptional schools will pay dividends for years to come.
