Dental Assistant

The Journey to Chairside: How to Become a Dental Assistant

September 13, 2023

graduate holding a light after dental assistant courses

In Canada, dental assistants are crucial to public health, assisting dentists in various procedures and educating patients on proper oral care. If you’re interested in the dental field and want a meaningful career that allows you to help people care for their health, this could be an excellent career path for you. Before you start pursuing a dental assistant path, we thought you might benefit from a comprehensive and current guide to the process of becoming a dental assistant in Canada. Keep reading for a sneak peak into your career journey.  

1. Wondering How to Become A Dental Assistant? Start With Training 

In Canada, dental assistants are required to complete a college diploma that’s at least eight months in length. The 60-week dental assistant diploma program at Medix College provides a thorough and hands-on education in all of the key competencies required for success in any dental setting. Medix College has collaborated with a number of partners in the dental industry to design a curriculum that reflects the current demands of a dental assistant position.

student holding a clipboard in dental assistant courses
Our dental assistant courses will prepare you to be a highly competent candidate.

You’ll learn general dental science theory, clinical dental assisting, preventative dental procedures, pharmacology, emergencies, dental specialties procedures and how to care for the oral health of patients in a comfortable, safe manner. Our program also provides students with a 150-hour externship that enables them to perfect their chairside skills and build professional connections. If you’re wondering how to become a dental assistant, be sure to start the process by researching programs at least eight months in length within your area. Try to find a program with a practical component to enrich your learning. 

2. Land Your First Dental Assistant Job

So, how long does it take to become a dental assistant in total? Depending on what province you live in, approximately one to two years. Dental assisting is a regulated occupation in most Canadian provinces (except for Ontario and Quebec). If necessary, your first move after graduation is to register with a regulatory board. If you’re located in Ontario or Quebec, it’s time to start your job search. As a Medix College student, you’ll be equipped with 150 hours of professional dental assistant experience which will appeal to prospective employers who are looking for capable candidates. In addition, Medix College offers a competitive advantage with our strong industry relationships.

candidate in interview after dental assistant courses
Our dental assistant courses will prepare you to land competitive opportunities.

3. Continue To Advance Your Career  

A major advantage to a dental assistant career is the vast opportunity for advancement. If you find yourself wanting change, you have plenty of options. After our dental assistant program, you can seek higher education in the following fields: 

  • Dental Assistant/Administrator
  • Dental Office Manager
  • Intra-Oral Dental Assistant 
  • Dental Assistant/ Receptionist
  • Dental Treatment coordinator 
  • Dental Sales representative 
  • Dental hygienist 
  • Dental lab technician

By combining the knowledge and skills you’ll gain in our program with our unrivaled career support, we’re confident that you’ll be able to build an illustrious dental assistant career that allows you to find security and fulfillment. 

FAQs:

How do I become a dental assistant in Canada?

In Canada, dental assistants are required to complete a college diploma that’s at least eight months in length. The 60-week dental assistant diploma program at Medix College provides a thorough and hands-on education in all of the key competencies required for success in any dental setting. Medix College has collaborated with a number of partners in the dental industry to design a curriculum that reflects the current demands of a dental assistant position. 

How long does it take to become a dental assistant in Ontario?

Depending on what province you live in, approximately one to two years. Dental assisting is a regulated occupation in most Canadian provinces (except for Ontario and Quebec). If necessary, your first move after graduation is to register with a regulatory board. If you’re located in Ontario or Quebec, it’s time to start your job search. As a Medix College student, you’ll be equipped with 150 hours of professional dental assistant experience which will appeal to prospective employers who are looking for capable candidates. In addition, Medix College offers a competitive advantage with our strong industry relationships.

Are you ready to start dental assistant courses

Contact Medix College to learn more!

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