# The Top 10 Dental Assistant Programs in Los Angeles \(2026\)

- Canonical: https://33rdsquare.com/the-top-10-dental-assistant-programs-in-los-angeles-2024/
- Published: 2024-02-27
- Author: Charlene Farwell
- Categories: [School](https://33rdsquare.com/category/education/school/)

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The role of dental assistants is growing rapidly nationwide as dentists seek qualified professionals to manage office operations and assist with a wide range of patient procedures. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment for dental assistants will grow by 10% between 2022 and 2032. This strong job outlook makes it an ideal time for aspiring dental assistants to pursue their education and training.

The Los Angeles region is home to numerous accredited dental assistant programs, but they vary greatly when it comes to curriculum, instructors, facilities, costs and more. When researching the top options, it‘s important for prospective students to look for programs that provide extensive hands-on training, smaller class sizes, knowledgeable instructors and assistance with job placement or externships.

Here is an overview of 10 leading dental assistant schools and training programs in LA to consider for 2024:

## 1. Fullerton Dental Assistant School

Founded in 1974, Fullerton Dental Assistant School is one of the longest running and most reputable dental assisting programs in Los Angeles. Key highlights include:

- 10-week intensive program with focus on hands-on learning
- Curriculum covers key areas like dental anatomy, radiography, assisting procedures
- Instructors have over 50 years combined dental experience
- Class size capped at 10 students
- On-site working dental office for practical labs
- Assistance with job placement, interview prep and resume building

Students gain in-depth knowledge and practical skills to qualify for entry-level dental assisting jobs. The small class sizes also ensure personalized attention and support.

## 2. Santa Clarita School of Dental Assisting

This school provides complete training to prepare graduates for dental assisting certification exams. Distinguishing features include:

- Comprehensive 10-week program covering all aspects of dental assisting
- Radiology, infection control, materials, office admin, anatomy and terminology
- Practical clinical experience through hands-on labs and simulations
- Class size limited to 10 students
- Qualified instructors with professional dental experience
- Job placement assistance with partnerships at local dental clinics

With flexible class schedules and customized tuition financing, this program aims to fit the needs of all students.

## 3. American Dental & Medical Institute

Located in Pasadena, ADMI offers a 10-month dental assisting program accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation. Key details:

- Cutting-edge simulation lab with 16 fully-equipped dental operatories
- Covers concepts like pharmacology, pathology, radiology and practice management
- Student research and innovation highly encouraged
- Experienced faculty with specializations in all dental fields
- Successfully trained over 1000 dental assistants
- Job placement assistance with large industry network

ADMI aims to graduate well-rounded dental assistants ready for clinical practice and professional growth.

## 4. The Valley School for Dental Assisting

Operating for over 20 years, this North Hollywood school provides expert training in an interactive, hands-on learning environment. Offerings include:

- 10-week program focused on skills and knowledge application
- Specialties like coronal polishing, sealants and orthodontic assisting
- Modern facility with up-to-date dental technology
- Class size of just 5-7 students
- Qualified instructors with decades of professional experience
- Out-of-state testing assistance provided

Graduates praise the personalized instruction and comfortable learning environment.

## 5. The Valley School for Dental Assisting Downey

This Downey branch of Valley School offers the same high-caliber training as its parent location. Key advantages:

- Comprehensive modules covering all dental assisting subfields
- Modern facility with cutting-edge dental tech
- Small class sizes for individualized attention
- Convenient morning and evening course schedules
- Optional 160-hour externship program
- Expert instructors with real-world experience

This school provides a supportive environment for students to gain skills needed to launch their careers.

## 6. American Dental Academy

In operation for over 25 years, this East LA school is praised for its passionate instructors and cutting-edge facility. Highlights include:

- 10-week intensive training in all areas of dental assisting
- Radiology, materials, instrumentation, laboratory procedures
- Hands-on training in on-site professional clinic with live patients
- Expert instructors with decades of field experience
- Class size kept under 15 students
- Member of American Association of Dental Boards

Graduates gain real-world confidence to thrive in dental roles.

## 7. National Career College

One of the most affordable options in LA, NCC offers a Diploma in Dental Assisting program with flexible schedules. Details include:

- Program can be completed in as little as 8 months
- Covers key skills like patient care, radiology, infection control
- Practical training in modern dental lab facility
- Faculty have worked professionally in dental health
- Job placement assistance with resume writing tips
- Eligible for certification exams upon completion

The program prepares students for entry-level dental assisting and front office roles.

## 8. CBD College

This LA school offers an Associate Degree program in Dental Assisting spanning several semesters. Key facts:

- Covers concepts ranging from microbiology to radiology
- Hand skills development in on-campus dental labs
- Externship program for real-world experience
- Classes held during day and evening hours
- Instructors have professional dental experience
- Career guidance for students

Students gain well-rounded knowledge plus vital hands-on abilities.

## 9. Concorde Career College

The dental assisting diploma program at Concorde North Hollywood features:

- Courses in radiology, anatomy, assisting, lab techniques and more
- X-ray certification testing preparation
- Modern dental lab with up-to-date equipment
- Hands-on practicums under instructor supervision
- Externship opportunities at local dental clinics
- Career help with resume writing and interview advice

Graduates have the skills to work alongside dentists or in related roles.

## 10. Los Angeles School of Dental Assisting

Operating since 1973, this LA school focuses exclusively on dental assisting education. Key details:

- 10-week program combines theory and hands-on practice
- Training in four fully-equipped dental operatories
- Instructors have over 100 collective years of experience
- Class size kept small for personalized attention
- Assistance with job applications and interviews
- Continuing education opportunities

The program allows students to immediately apply knowledge in clinical settings.

When researching dental assistant schools, it‘s important for prospective students to closely compare factors like curriculum, class size, instructors‘ expertise, facilities, costs, scheduling options and job placement assistance. Hands-on training and smaller classes are essential.

The top schools featured in this piece provide top-tier education, small class sizes, modern dental equipment and qualified instructors with real professional experience. Students graduate fully prepared to begin rewarding careers supporting dentists in clinical settings or dental offices.

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Source: [The Top 10 Dental Assistant Programs in Los Angeles \(2026\)](https://33rdsquare.com/the-top-10-dental-assistant-programs-in-los-angeles-2024/)
