STUDENT EXPERIENCE

What to Expect as a Dental Assistant Student

Wondering what it's really like? Here's a look inside our 12-week program — from your first day to graduation.

Start Your Application

See for Yourself

Apply today and we'll walk you through what your schedule and experience will look like.

Weeks to Graduate
12
Total Tuition
$3,890
Next Start Date
April 25, 2026
Down Payment as Low As
$1450

Your 12-Week Journey

Our program is designed to take you from beginner to job-ready in 12 weeks. Here's what your experience will look like:

1

Weeks 1-2: Building Your Foundation

You'll start by learning the fundamentals — dental terminology, professional conduct, and the basics of working in a dental office. You'll meet your classmates and instructors, and start getting comfortable in a clinical environment.

2

Weeks 3-8: Hands-On Clinical Training

This is where it gets real. You'll practice clinical skills in a real dental office environment, working with actual equipment and tools. You'll learn chairside assisting, infection control, dental charting, X-rays, and clinical procedures.

3

Weeks 9-10: Certification Prep

Prepare for your dental assistant certification exam with comprehensive review sessions and practice tests. You'll earn your credential as part of the program.

4

Weeks 11-12: Externship

Put everything you've learned into practice during your externship at a local dental office. You'll work alongside licensed professionals, gaining real-world experience that employers value.

A Typical Week

Classroom Learning

Each week includes structured classroom time where you'll learn the theory and knowledge behind dental assisting — from anatomy and terminology to patient care protocols and office procedures.

Hands-On Practice

Our classes take place in real dental offices, so you'll practice on the same equipment you'll use in your career. This isn't a simulation — it's the real thing.

What You'll Learn

  • Dental terminology
  • Chairside assisting
  • Infection control
  • Dental radiography (X-rays)
  • Dental charting
  • Instrument identification
  • Restorative procedures
  • Patient care & comfort
  • Office management
  • Certification exam prep

Small Classes, Big Support

Our class sizes are small by design, so you get the individual attention you need. Your instructors are experienced dental professionals who are invested in your success — and our student support team is here to help with everything from scheduling to career placement.

What Are Our Students Saying?
Google Google 4.9 (35)
I have just about 2 weeks until I can finally say “I’ve completed my program” & I already have landed a JOB! That right there should speak for itself. Don’t let hearing the program is “accelerated” let that scare you away from your dream career. Online modules are very easy to understand. Every Saturday class is very fun, and HANDS ON. The instructors are very sweet, and explains everything clearly for everyone in class to understand. Pairing the 2 together for a few weeks, DEFINITELY will have you stepping into your career or office VERY motivated and prepared. With that being said, if your trying to jump start your career without having to over spend and waist monthsssss in school, OR start making real money sooner then later, the. Tacoma Dental Assisting School is the right path for you! Read less
I have just about 2 weeks until I can finally say “I’ve completed my program” & I already have landed a JOB! That right there should speak for itself. Don’t let hearing the program is “accelerated”... Read more
Reviewer profile photo
Jay
Stars for review
SO FAR THE CLASS IS AMAZING! The hands on looks so fun more than stressful and classes aren’t really much of weight on ur back! Teacher was great energy off the roof ! Definitely feels like an environment I’d stay in. Sent from my iPhone Read less
SO FAR THE CLASS IS AMAZING! The hands on looks so fun more than stressful and classes aren’t really much of weight on ur back! Teacher was great energy off the roof ! Definitely feels like an envi... Read more
Reviewer profile photo
tunaye mohamed
Stars for review
I had Stephiany! She was great very sweet and nicely always helps! This program has gotten me ready for this job!
Reviewer profile photo
Elizabeth J
Stars for review
Amanda and Breanna were my two instructors. I appreciated their willingness to not sugar coat things. I loved the small class size with 5 students. They were always willing to work 1 on 1 durring skills lab on Saturdays. I liked how when we'd all break away for our different labs both instructors were regularly making their rounds and stopping to demonstrate. The instructors would frequently ask us what online HW we were struggling with so we could do that lab 1st in the morning. I liked hearing about the offices they work in when they would share it. I feel it was relevant and helped me when I was looking for my new office after graduation. Thank you. Read less
Amanda and Breanna were my two instructors. I appreciated their willingness to not sugar coat things. I loved the small class size with 5 students. They were always willing to work 1 on 1 durring ... Read more
Reviewer profile photo
pineapplebutterscotch
Stars for review
I’m very appreciative of this school and the opportunities that it’s provided me for growth in the field . If you ever get the chance to speak with Mrs . Karen she is great and has made a huge a impact on the way I push towards this goal of becoming a dental assistant it’s an awesome program with a lot to offer for someone just beginning like myself. Read less
I’m very appreciative of this school and the opportunities that it’s provided me for growth in the field . If you ever get the chance to speak with Mrs . Karen she is great and has made a huge a im... Read more
Reviewer profile photo
Keia keia Duh
Stars for review
I’m an instructor at this school and it is such a good program I have really enjoyed teaching here!
Reviewer profile photo
Stephany Peraza
Stars for review
Teacher Kaylee was a great teacher, she was kind and spoke to us with respect! Always happy to help and hear our concerns. Her kindness and bubbly attitude made the class super enjoyable. She was great at explaining everything and I learned a lot from her! Read less
Teacher Kaylee was a great teacher, she was kind and spoke to us with respect! Always happy to help and hear our concerns. Her kindness and bubbly attitude made the class super enjoyable. She was g... Read more
Reviewer profile photo
Molisha
Stars for review
Great experience great teachers
Reviewer profile photo
Hilda Castro
Stars for review
Great Dental Assisting Program!! I always felt welcomed. Teacher Jessica is amazing. She’s very helpful and friendly. Always making sure we understood procedure and instruments.
Reviewer profile photo
Lizbeth Guzman
Stars for review
Teacher Jessica was the best teacher. The way she taught and made sure we studied and also she made sure we where understanding the concept. She was very helpful ever since day one! Thanks to teacher Jessica I feel confident as a dental assistant with the program! Read less
Teacher Jessica was the best teacher. The way she taught and made sure we studied and also she made sure we where understanding the concept. She was very helpful ever since day one! Thanks to teach... Read more
Reviewer profile photo
Magdalena Velazquez
Stars for review

Ready to See What's Possible?

Your future as a dental assistant is closer than you think. Take the first step today.

Start Your Application

Or call us now: (253) 316-8937