Prospective students are strongly encouraged to contact an academic advisor before starting any prerequisite testing and coursework. Students can send questions to advisor@lakemichigancollege.edu or make an advising appointment using the Appointments link on their LMC Navigate account.
Why Study Dental Assisting at LMC?
Registered Dental Assisting (RDA) Career Opportunities
The Registered Dental Assisting Program prepares students for entry-level dental assisting positions in a variety of settings such as private dental offices, dental schools, the military, and dental insurance offices The curriculum includes the required dental radiography courses that allow graduates to expose dental radiographs in the State of Michigan. The program also prepares students’ skills that include: chairside, receptionist, and laboratory duties, as well as inventory control, infection control, and equipment maintenance. While in the program students will obtain clinical experience in local dental offices. Upon completion of the program, students will be able to take the Michigan state board exam for Registered Dental Assistants (RDA). Graduates are also eligible to take the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) examination for the Certified Dental Assistant credential.
Dental Assistants are highly trained and possess the technical skills and expertise for the industry. Dental Assistants must have good listening skills, the ability to multitask, and the ability to plan and think ahead. They must communicate well with others and have excellent motor skills.
The Dental Assisting program is designed not only to give students the skills necessary to become valued dental assistants, but to also provide professional growth and success. Clinical learning experiences are provided by affiliated dental practices in the local area. Program coursework takes place in a classroom and lab setting at the Benton Harbor or Niles Campuses.
The structured curriculum is designed in accordance with the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA).
Dental assistants perform many tasks, ranging from providing patient care and taking x-rays, to recordkeeping and scheduling appointments. Their duties vary by state and by the dentists’ offices where they work.*
Dental Assistants may also serve in other capacities such as:
- Office or Department managers
- Sales and service for manufacturers
- Educators
Employment Outlook
Employment opportunities in Southwest Michigan are exceptional due to the recent increases in funding in support of public health dental clinics.
Per the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median wage for dental assistants was $41,180 in 2020. The highest-paid 10% made over $58,000.
- Employment is expected to grow 7% through 2029, faster than average for all occupations.
- The aging population and ongoing research linking oral health and general health will continue to increase the demand for preventive dental services.
- Employment is primarily at dentists’ offices, and most work full time.
Program Format
Advanced Technology: Dental Assisting classes are offered at both the Benton Harbor and Niles at Bertrand Crossing campuses with each site utilizing the latest, state-of-the-art technology in dental equipment.
You’ll be licensed: Upon completion of the program which includes an internship at a local dental office, students will be eligible to take the Michigan Board of Dentistry Examination which grants licensure as a Registered Dental Assistant (RDA). Graduates are also eligible to take the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) examination for the Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) credential.
Admission process is nondiscriminatory in regards to age, color, height, weight, creed, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, or gender identity or expression.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is so exciting about Dental Assisting? Dental Assistants work in a fast-paced environment and must be able to balance multiple high-priority tasks at once. As a Dental Assistant, you may be the first to greet patients as they come through the door. Dental Assistants will also help sterilize equipment, expose radiographic images, assist the dentist with a patient, manage and maintain records, process billing information, and schedule appointments.
Essentially, Dental Assistants are the backbone of a dental office!
Will I need a license to practice Dental Assisting? In order to take radiographs (x-rays), students must complete radiography course(s) at an accredited Dental Assisting program.
Some states may have additional license requirements for Dental Assistants.
In addition, please note the following information regarding eligibility: If convicted of a felony or misdemeanor, the Michigan State Board of Dentistry will evaluate your eligibility to take the Michigan Registered Dental Assistants Exam at the time of application. These instances are reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
What will I learn in the program? Upon completion of the Dental Assisting Program, students will:
- Demonstrate an entry-level working knowledge of Dental Assisting.
- Exhibit professional values, and apply critical thinking, and communication skills.
- Obtain an understanding of professional values and the importance of life-long learning and professional development.
- Be employable and meet the needs of the healthcare community.
