Dental Assistant Schools and Programs in Illinois

Proper oral hygiene has been proven to positively affect the whole body. Part of maintaining teeth means frequent visits to the dentist, where dental assistants play a key role in this area of health care.

Dental assistants work closely with dentists, orthodontists, and dental surgeons. Their duties range from patient care, performing lab work such as taking x-rays, and preparing instruments for the dental provider. They also work closely with patients, setting appointments and providing instructions regarding proper dental care.

Illinois Dental Assistant Schools and Training Programs

To become a qualified dental assistant and increase earning potential, complete a dental assisting program accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA).

• Elgin Community College: Located in Elgin, this school offers three certificate programs: Dental Office Aide, Preclinical Dental Assisting, and Clinical Dental Assisting. Training includes 300 hours of clinical experience.
  
  
• Illinois Valley Community College: Located in Oglesby, this school offers certification in dental assisting, allowing students to choose between full-time and part-time schedules. Training is CODA-accredited and includes clinical practice.
  
  
• John A. Logan College: Located in Carterville, offers this CODA-approved certification program, which also serves as the prerequisite program for those wishing to become a dental hygienist.
  
  
• Kaskaskia College: Located in Centralia, this school offers a career and technical certificate. Students receive instruction in a classroom setting as well as in lab and clinical settings, completing a clinical internship in an area dental office.
  
  
• Lewis and Clark Community College: Located in Godfrey, this school offers a certification program and has resources to assist students with job placement after graduation. In addition to standard coursework, students take psychology and communication classes.

In addition to completing a CODA-approved program, you must have a CPR certificate and pass the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination.

What to Expect from Illinois Dental Assistant Programs

Graduates of a dental assistant program learn how to control infection, radiography, and preventive dental health. Common coursework includes:

• Infection Control Practices
• Dental Science
• Dental Materials and Lab Procedures
• Chairside Assisting
• Dental Radiography
• Preventive Dentistry
• Expanded Functions
• Clinical Practice

Programs typically include hands-on clinical work in a real-world dental practice. This experience allows students the opportunity to select a specialty, such as orthodontics or pediatrics, if they choose to do so.

Illinois Dental Assistant License

While there is no requirement to have an education or training requirements to be a basic dental assistant under the supervision of a licensed dentist, there are some licensing requirements to perform the full scope of tasks that fall under the role of dental assistant. To perform the expanded role of a dental assistant without supervision you must:

• Be at least 18
• Have 1000 hours of clinical dental experience
• Complete a CODA-accredited dental assisting program
• Hold a current national DANB Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) Certification
• Complete an Illinois Board-approved course

DANB CDA certification offers dental assistants improved chances in obtaining employment, as well as increasing their earning power.

Resources for Dental Assistants in Illinois

• The Dental Assisting National Board helps you prepare for exams and certification.
• The American Dental Association provides education and job requirements for a career as a dental assistant.