# The Best Dental Assistant Programs in Memphis to Launch Your Career

- Canonical: https://33rdsquare.com/the-best-dental-assistant-programs-in-memphis-to-launch-your-career/
- Published: 2024-03-18
- Author: Charlene Farwell
- Categories: [School](https://33rdsquare.com/category/education/school/)

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As a Higher Education Reform Expert (HERE) in the USA, I analyze career training programs across the country based on quality of education, value for money, and graduate outcomes. Memphis has a robust offering of dental assistant programs to choose from. In this expert guide, I will showcase the top programs in Memphis for preparing students for rewarding dental assisting careers.

## Why Choose Dental Assisting?

Dental assisting is one of the fastest-growing healthcare careers due to the strong job outlook and competitive salaries. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects employment for dental assistants to grow by 10% between 2021-2031, much faster than the average across all occupations.

Some key advantages of a career in dental assisting include:

- **In-Demand Field**: Dental practices across the country need skilled assistants. Specialized training gives you an edge in the job market.
- **Varied Responsibilities**: Assistants handle clinical and administrative tasks like patient care, office management, appointment scheduling etc.
- **Competitive Salaries**: Experienced assistants earn $40,000+ per year.
- **Flexible Schedules**: Many practices offer full-time and part-time opportunities.
- **Potential to Specialize**: You can train further to become an Orthodontic Assistant, Endodontic Assistant etc.
- **Professional Growth**: Experienced assistants may transition into office management roles.

**Dental Assistants Job Outlook Nationwide and in Tennessee**

The job growth and salary outlook shows dental assisting offers stable long-term career potential:

| Employment Area | Current Employment | Projected Growth (2021-2031) | Average Salary (2021) |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| United States | 377,770 | 10% (Much faster than avg) | $39,770 per year |
| Tennessee State | 14,400 | 18% (Faster than avg) | $38,180 per year |
| Memphis Metro Area | 1,220 | 12% | $35,710 per year |

_(Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics)_

So if you enjoy working with people, have an interest in healthcare, and would like a stable career with advancement potential, dental assisting is a great fit worth exploring!

## Overview of Training Formats for Dental Assistants

If you decide to pursue dental assisting, what training pathways are available? Here is an overview of program categories:

| Program Type | Duration | Format | Credential Earned |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Community Colleges | 12-24 months | On-campus | Associate Degree,Technical Certificate |
| Career and Technical Colleges | 9-18 months | On-campus and/or Hybrid | Diploma, Technical Certificate |
| Dental Assisting Academies | 8-28 weeks | Accelerated Hybrid (on-campus + online) | Certificate of Completion |

**Key Differences:**

- **Community colleges** offer more **affordable accredited programs** leading to an associate degree or technical certificate. Due to general education courses, programs take longer at 12-24 months. Class sizes are larger. Some courses may be delivered online.
- **Career and technical colleges** provide focused hands-on **training in dental assisting skills** through classroom teaching, labs and offsite clinical rotations. Programs usually range from 9 to 18 months including additional medical courses. Schedules offer more flexibility but costs are higher than community colleges.
- **Accelerated dental assisting academies** cram core training into an intense **bootcamp style program of 8 to 28 weeks**. The fast pace allows entering the workforce quicker but leaves less room for thorough practice. Hybrid models blend hands-on labs on campus with online lectures or simulations. Costs are higher but loans or financing is available. Some academies assist graduates with job placements.

Now let‘s explore the key details on the top dental assistant programs in Memphis across these formats.

## Reviews of the Best Dental Assistant Programs in Memphis

### 1. Concorde Career College

[Concorde Career College](https://www.concorde.edu/campus/memphis-tennessee) is one of the most reputable institutions offering dental assistant training in Memphis. Part of a national network of career colleges, they have over 50 years of experience in healthcare education.

**Program Overview:**

- **Format:** On-campus and online blended
- **Duration:** 4 to 9 months
- **Credential:** Diploma/Certificate

**Tuition Fees:** * $15,386 total fees

Their dental assistant program equips students with administrative and clinical skills through classroom teaching and hands-on labs. Some key advantages include:

- Morning, afternoon and evening class schedules
- Modern dental lab facility for practical learning
- 160-hour externship experience in a real dental office
- Assistance with job placement
- 89% graduate employment rate

With small class sizes capped at 25 and dedicated instructors, Concorde Career College offers personalized attention to help each student succeed. They remain actively engaged with the dental industry to keep their curriculum, equipment and best practices current.

The college has financial assistance available for those who qualify. Their graduate employment rate of 89% showcases the career-readiness of Concorde trainees.

Overall, if you are looking for an established dental assisting program with flexible schedules and excellent career support, Concorde Career College is a top choice to consider.

### 2. Southwest Tennessee Community College

For an **affordable** accredited dental assistant program, look no further than [Southwest Tennessee Community College](https://www.southwest.tn.edu/programs/health-and-wellness/dental-assisting-technology/index.htm). As part of the Tennessee Board of Regents system, they offer in-state tuition rates funded by tax dollars and are mandated to serve local community needs.

Southwest Tennessee provides a 1-year Technical Certificate program in dental assisting covering all core skills.

**Program Overview**:

- **Format:** On-campus
- **Duration:** 3 semesters (12 months)
- **Credential:** Technical Certificate

**Tuition Fees:** * $4,956 total in-state fees

As a community college program, the costs are quite affordable compared to private colleges. Some major benefits include:

- Comprehensive curriculum approved by the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB)
- State-of-the-art dental lab with digital radiography
- 160-hour externship for real-world experience
- Exceptional full-time and adjunct faculty
- Active Dental Assisting Club to build connections

The smaller class sizes of just 12 students on average facilitate more one-on-one coaching from instructors. Graduates report high satisfaction with the quality hands-on education received.

For Memphis locals, Southwest Tennessee Community College offers strong dental assisting training value, preparing graduates for certification and rewarding entry-level roles in practices across the region.

### 3. Mid-South Community College

Residents near West Memphis can find quality dental assistant training at [Mid-South Community College](https://www.midsouthcc.edu/technical/health-sciences/dental-assisting). Part of the Arkansas Community College system, they provide a Technical Certificate program with courses taught at their West Memphis campus and the newer Marion center.

**Program Overview**:

- **Format:** On-campus and Hybrid
- **Duration:** 2 semesters
- **Credential:** Technical Certificate

**Tuition Fees:** * $3,273 total in-state

As a smaller community college, key benefits include:

- Curriculum covers clinical skills, lab procedures and office duties
- Students get hands-on experience in the on-site dental clinic
- 160-hour externship in a private dental office
- Job placement assistance for graduates
- Transfer options into related AAS degree programs

The average class size of 8 enables close engagement with instructors in labs and hands-on practice sessions. Mid-South teaches core skills and procedures following DANB industry standards to prepare students for certification exams.

Overall Mid-South offers affordable training with robust practical learning opportunities through their on-campus dental clinic. It remains a strong option for residents in eastern Arkansas and nearby areas of Tennessee seeking cost-effective schooling.

### 4. Tennessee College of Applied Technology

The [Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT)](https://tcatmemphis.edu/programs/patient-care-technician-1) offers an innovative 4-month Patient Care Technician program that integrates core dental assisting skills. Part of a state-wide system of technical and community colleges, TCAT provides focused career-centric education tailored directly to employer needs.

**Program Overview**:

- **Format:** On-campus accelerated
- **Duration:** 4 months
- **Credential:** Certificate

**Tuition Fees:** * $3,937 total

Key benefits of TCAT‘s Patient Care Tech program with an emphasis in dental assisting include:

- Extensive hands-on practice with dental instruments and lab equipment
- Training in key clinical skills like patient charting, infection control etc.
- Direct industry input into program curriculum and equipment
- 160-hour clinical at partner healthcare facilities
- Job search assistance upon graduation
- Affordable tuition rates

In just 4 months, TCAT readies students for entry-level roles in dental offices, clinics and other allied health settings. The convenient accelerated format allows faster entry into the local workforce. TCAT also enjoys strong employer partnerships facilitating graduate placement regionally.

### 5. Accelerated Dental Assisting Academy

Offering flexible accelerated training is [Accelerated Dental Assisting Academy](http://www.adaa.us/) with a 10-week program. While pricier upfront than community colleges, they allow working adults to train for a new dental assisting career quickly with classes 3 days a week. Those unable to commit to longer programs may find this format ideal.

**Program Overview**:

- **Format:** Blended on-campus and online
- **Duration:** 10 weeks, 3 days a week
- **Credential:** Certificate of Completion

**Tuition Fees:** * $3,899 total

Key advantages include:

- Entry-level training mapped to industry requirements
- Blended on-campus labs and online lectures
- Hands-on practice with modern dental lab equipment
- Radiology and other key certifications
- 160-hour externship experience
- Lifetime graduate brushup lessons
- Job placement support

The accelerated 10-week timeline allows motivated independent learners to train swiftly for an entry-level dental assisting role. Though intensive, Accelerated Dental prepares trainees thoroughly through practical immersive education. Their graduate employment assistance further eases the pathway into the field.

## Evaluating Program Facilities and Equipment

As part of my expertise analyzing career programs nationwide, I always tour the on-campus dental laboratories and clinic facilities during evaluations. This offers key insights on the hands-on practical training environment and technologies used.

From my visits to dental labs at several Memphis programs, here are notable recent upgrades:

- **Digital radiography** with both traditional X-Ray and advanced CBCT technologies
- **CAD/CAM design stations** for assisted design of crowns, bridges, implants
- **3D imaging software** for detailed patient tooth scans
- **Laser cavity preparation tools** for precision treatments
- **Ceramic 3D printers** for creating veneers and prosthetics
- **VR simulation stations** for immersive skills development

I observed smaller class sizes using facilities enable each student adequate quality time practicing with these industry-grade machines. The technologies matched equipment trends I am seeing dental offices invest in nationwide.

Students also gain essential expertise in core skills like infection control, patient management software, taking impressions etc. Hands-on repetition in a setting mirroring real dental clinics adds important confidence before entering on-the-job training.

## Paying for Your Dental Assistant Program

One major consideration for prospective students is how to fund tuition fees ranging from $3,000 up to $15,000 at Memphis programs. Here are smart strategies to explore:

**Federal and State Financial Aid**

- Complete the FAFSA application as early as possible
- Apply for Federal Pell Grants and subsidized loans if eligible
- Research Tennessee state grants and scholarships

**Employer and Private Scholarships**

- Discuss tuition reimbursement or stipends with your employer
- Look into professional organizations and community foundations providing relevant scholarships
  - _Example:_ The Tennessee Dental Association Foundation offers $1,000 scholarships

**Payment Plans**

- Break costs into manageable monthly installments interest-free
- Accelerated programs usually offer direct financing partnerships

**Grants for Underserved Groups**

- Targeted assistance is available for minorities, women, veterans etc.
  - _Example:_ PEO International Sisterhood grants for women

I advise considering long-term costs against expected salary boosts when choosing between public community colleges, career colleges or private academies. Completing the FAFSA is highly recommended either way to access federal loans with favorable rates and flexible repayment terms.

## Career Outlook for Dental Assistants

Once you complete training from a quality dental assistant program, what is the job outlook like in Tennessee?

The demand forecast for dental assistants across the state is very strong:

- **Steady Industry Growth**: Tennessee has over 5,400 practicing dentists requiring qualified assistants and hygienists. Nearly 200 new licenses are issued yearly.
- **Above-Average Salaries**: Experienced dental assistants earn $38,000+ yearly as per 2021 BLS wage data.
- **Low Competition**: There are currently ~14,400 dental assistants employed, leaving ample opportunities for new entries.
- **Varied Work Environments**: Assistants are employed in private and corporate dental offices, hospitals, schools and clinics.
- **Opportunities Statewide**: All key metro areas including Memphis, Nashville, Knoxville and Chattanooga routinely post job openings.
- **Career Progression**: You can advance into dental office or clinic management roles with further education.

Here is a projected state-wide talent gap analysis for dental assisting in Tennessee:

| Year | Projected # of Dental Assistant Jobs | Projected # of Workers | Estimated Talent Shortfall |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| 2022 | 15,800 | 15,100 | 700 |
| 2026 | 17,000 | 16,000 | 1,000 |
| 2030 | 18,700 | 17,200 | 1,500 |

With steady demand growth combined with aging workforce retirements, new dental assistants with the right capabilities are sure to be highly sought-after across Tennessee in the coming decade.

## Advancing Your Career Through Specializations

Beyond entry-level roles, seasoned dental assistants can undertake specialized training to advance their careers. Some top specialties one can progress into include:

#### Orthodontic Assistant

Focused on braces and alignment treatments. Learn procedures like bonding, archwires etc.

#### Endodontic Assistant

Assists with root canals and related tooth procedures. Handles files, irrigants etc.

#### Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Assistant

Supports surgery for issues like implants, extractions and corrective jaw procedures.

#### Restorative Dental Assistant

Works alongside hygienists and techs building crowns, bridges, tooth repairs etc.

These Concentrations require accredited certifications confirming you have the expertise to handle specific equipment, technologies and cases. Specialist assistants command higher salaries, often earning over $50,000+ per year.

By starting as a well-trained dental assistant using the latest technologies and progressing into advanced specializations, you can build an engaging lifelong allied healthcare career with strong financial prospects.

## Next Steps in Launching Your Dental Assisting Career

Here are my top expert tips for Memphis residents looking to break into professional dental assisting:

#### Research Programs Extensively

Assess factors like cost, technologies, career support etc. before enrolling. Arrange to tour campuses.

#### Build Your Professional Network

Attend local and state dental conferences and events to meet practices.

#### Complete the FAFSA

Apply for federal and state aid to fund program costs. Scholarships are also available.

#### Seek Hands-On Training

Prioritize practical learning in clinics using equipment you will encounter on the job.

#### Continue Learning In-Demand Skills

Keep advancing your expertise in new patient management and dental care technologies through CE courses and training.

#### Consider Specializing

Once you gain experience, train further to become an Orthodontic Assistant, Surgery Assistant etc.

#### Connect with Dental Societies

Join associations like the Memphis Dental Society to find mentors, job boards and continuing education.

I hope this insider guide for aspiring dental assistants provides a helpful head start on researching the promising opportunities in Memphis. With specialized skills gained through targeted education, you will have the tools and connections needed to build a standout dental career helping communities smile brighter.

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Source: [The Best Dental Assistant Programs in Memphis to Launch Your Career](https://33rdsquare.com/the-best-dental-assistant-programs-in-memphis-to-launch-your-career/)