Frequently Asked Questions

How can this program be so fast?

Westside Dental Assistant School is a 'hands-on learning program.' We take a different approach from traditional education. Our classes take place in a dental office rather than a classroom. There is a hands-on component to every part of our course. Our classes begin with a lecture/class discussion, but the majority of the class time is spent in labs learning the essential techniques of Dental Assisting. When our students graduate and begin their career, they are at home in a dental office.

How can a short course be as effective as a longer program?

As a newly hired Dental Assistant, your employer will have an expectation that you will know the basic skills of Dental Assisting. It’s those fundamental skills that we focus on teaching our students. Our custom designed curriculum sets students up for success in knowing exactly what dentists will expect them to know.

 What does a Dental Assistant do? 

Dental Assistants perform a variety of duties, including but not limited to assisting the dentist, carrying out clinical tasks, and completing administrative work.

Dental assistants may perform many different clinical duties including preparing patients and the work area for treatments and procedures, sterilizing dental instruments, assisting the dentist during procedures, administrative/front office tasks, working with patients on billing and payment, taking molds and impressions, performing x-rays, & more.

Dental Assistants are responsible for making patients feel at ease while also preparing them for treatment. During dental visits, assistants often work alongside the dentist.

How much does a Dental Assistant make? 

The median annual wage for dental assistants is $ 44,710 per year as of May 2022. For more information, please visit:

https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes319091.htm