About the Program
JVS delivers an accelerated Dental Assistant training program designed to prepare participants for entry‑level employment while addressing regional dental workforce shortages. The program combines classroom instruction, hands‑on clinical skills training, required certifications, professional skills development, and a paid internship.
Program Details
- Applicants must attend one info session to be eligible
- This program will run from December 15 through April 8 with a mandatory orientation on December 15
- Participants complete over 130 hours of occupation‑specific classroom and hands‑on training
- Following classroom instruction, participants complete a 160‑hour paid internship at a local dental employer
- As part of training, participants earn industry‑required certifications, including Infection Control, Radiation Safety, and Basic Life Support (BLS), which are embedded into the program at no cost and completed prior to entering clinical settings
- Participants will receive soft skill training (EQ Suite) and job search essentials skills training (JSE) as well
Eligibility
- Must be a resident of San Francisco, Alameda, or Contra Costa Counties
- 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 and 2 volunteer patients for the Coronal Polishing certification
- Must provide updated immunization record
- Must provide proof of updated immunization records (negative TB, valid MMR, TDAP, Varicella, Hep B)
- 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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