Dental Assistant

Dental Assistants assist dentists and dental hygienists with patient care as well as provide administrative support in a dental office.

Career Outlook

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment in the dental field is expected to grow 25 percent from 2012-2022, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. Ongoing research linking oral health and general health will likely continue to increase the demand for preventive dental services. Additional reasons for expansion include the population growth, greater retention of natural teeth by middle-aged and older people, and an increased focus on preventative dental care for younger generations will fuel demand for dental services.

Class Overview

The Kishwaukee College - Dental Assistant program is a non-credit program that consists of 70 hours of classroom instruction and a 20-hour, non-paid externship in a dental office. The purpose of the course is to provide training in the professional skills required to function as a Dental Assistant in the dental practice.

Due to the requirements of the profession, the following minimum abilities are expected of each student: at least a 10th grade Math and English (speaking and reading) level; psychomotor skills (eye-hand coordination and finger dexterity) and visual acuity (normal or corrected) sufficient for safe and successful practice of Dental Assistant duties.  The median annual wage for Dental Assistant was $27,930 in May 2018.

Externship Overview

Externships are coordinated by Kishwaukee College-Community Education. Students are required to provide their own transportation to and from their externship site. Drug testing, criminal background check and health insurance are required for externship placement.

Payment Plan

The cost of the class is $1,200. This cost includes textbooks and supplies. Federal and State financial aid are not available to offset the cost of the Dental Assistant program. A payment plan is available.

INFORMATION SESSIONS

Free Information Sessions will be held on November 13, 2019 & January 8, 2020 (6-7pm) in room A1221.

ORIENTATION SESSION

A mandatory Orientation Session will be held on January 14, 2020, 7-8pm in Room B1300.  All students who are registered for the Spring 2020 session must attend the Orientation Session.

Ways to Register

Spring 2020 Dental Assistant Program Information Sheet

Contact Information

For general inquiries or questions, please email mgallagher1@kish.edu or call Melissa Gallagher at 815-825-9466.

Students must be at least 18 years of age to register for the Dental Assistant program.