Program type
Dental assisting programs
Certificate or diploma (about 1 year) or associate degree (2 years)
Typical length
Many programs take about 1 year; 2-year associate programs are less common“Many dental assisting programs take about 1 year to complete and lead to a certificate or diploma.” BLS OOH: Dental Assistants
Who approves it
Some states require an approved or accredited program for registered or expanded-function assistants (California: Dental Board approval is one route).
Accreditation
CODA accredits dental assisting programs.
CODA: Commission on Dental Accreditation
Recognized by the U.S. Department of Education to accredit dental and allied dental programs.
Find accredited programsWhat to check before you enroll
- CODA accreditation or state approval
- Whether it covers your state's required courses (for example radiation safety)
- Clinical hours
Where it leads
Pay: BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025.
Program finder
Searching approved programs by state and city is coming soon. Until then, use the accreditor directories above, your state board's approved list and the Department of Education's College Scorecard.
Sources
- BLS OOH: Dental Assistants
- Commission on Dental Accreditation: find an accredited program
- Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs (U.S. Department of Education)
Checked against these sources on Oct 1, 2026.