About the Program
Get ready to kickstart a thriving dental career with JVS’s Foundations in Dental Assisting program. We have curated a comprehensive curriculum that focuses on key skills needed to jumpstart your dental career. As part of the program, participants will have the opportunity to put their learning into practice during a paid internship at a dental office.
Program Details
- This program runs from March 27 through August 7 with mandatory orientations on March 26
- This is an 18-week training including 5 weeks (up to 160 hours) of paid internship
- Participants who complete the program will receive over 150 hours of occupation-related training, certificates, and up to 160 internship hours
- Certificates included: Radiation Safety, Infection Control, BLS, Dental Practice Act
Eligibility
- Must be a resident of Los Angeles County, living in East Los Angeles or Downtown
- Must be 18 years of age or older and interested in securing meaningful employment with opportunities for economic growth
- Must be able to provide a U.S. high school diploma, GED, or equivalency with translation
- Should have a valid authorization to work in the United States, such as U.S. citizenship, permanent residency, or an employment authorization card
- Must be available and present for the entire duration of the program
- Must provide 3 volunteer patients for x-ray licensure exam
- Must provide updated immunization record
- Must provide proof of the following: a negative TB test completed within the past 12 months, Varicella (2 doses), MMR (2 doses), Tetanus (TDAP) booster needed every 10 years, Hep B (3 doses) or must have started prior to start of program, 2024 flu shot, and Covid-19 vaccines and current 2024 booster
- Prior to applying, please review JVS’s full program eligibility requirements and FAQ
What You’ll Learn
- Fundamentals of oral anatomy, dental procedures, and dental diseases
- Essential skills for chairside dental assisting
- How to properly handle and maintain dental equipment and materials
- Best practices to prevent and control infections
- Clinical skills through hands-on experience at a dental clinic
- X-rays and radiation safety training, including full mouth exposure on three patients, to be eligible for your x-ray licensure
- Interpersonal and customer service best practices to foster positive patient interactions
- Best practices in job searching, interview preparation, and crafting a high impact resume
Career Snapshot
As of 2023, the average wage range for Dental Assistants in CA is $19.30 – $28.75 per hour, with a 2023-2028 job growth projection of 6%.
Some possible career pathways for this occupation include:
- Registered Dental Assistant
- Orthodontic Assistant
- Dental Hygienist
- Dental Laboratory Technician
- Surgical Assistant
- Medical Equipment Preparer
~ Hiromi, Registered Dental Assistant
The tuition and fees of this program is $10,278 per person, but are no charge for participants thanks to our generous supporters. We invest heavily in our training programs to help you advance your career without financial barriers. Whether you’re starting out or looking to change careers, our training can open new doors and empower you to take the next step in your professional life, all at no cost to you.
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