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Dental assistants provide both technical and communication skills to assist the dentist. Sometimes dental assistants work independently to serve patients.
The Oregon Employment Department forecasts Portland area dental assistant employment will grow 12.6% through 2027.
Take the next step
Applying to PCC is free and only takes a few minutes.Apply now Limited entry awards have an additional application process. See each award page for all prerequisite requirements. Attend an information session Request information
Why choose Dental Assisting at PCC?
With an onsite community clinic, additional off-campus sites, and a wealth of college resources, Portland Community College’s Dental Assisting program offers a strong foundation that enables quick entry into a high-demand field. In just nine months, you can begin a rewarding career in which you care for the dental health of thousands of people. PCC dental assisting graduates are in high demand.
tooth Dental clinic
Our dental clinic will provide you with opportunities to practice your skills, gain invaluable hands-on clinical experience, and provide patients with compassionate and free care in our cutting-edge clinic.
graduation cap Related offerings
PCC also offers a Dental Hygiene program, as well as non-credit classes for professionals in the field.
Certification and accreditation
Upon successful completion of all course requirements with a grade of “C” or higher, students earn a certificate in Dental Assisting from PCC. As part of the program, students take the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) exams, enabling them to apply for their Oregon Radiologic Proficiency Certificate, Expanded Functions Dental Assistant (EFDA) Certificate, and Expanded Functions Orthodontic Dental Assistant (EFODA) Certificate. They also earn national certification as a Certified Dental Assistant (CDA). These credentials make PCC graduates highly competitive candidates in the dental workforce.
Our one-year certificate program is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA). If needed, you may file comments or complaints with the Commission on Dental Accreditation about the program concerning CODA Dental Accreditation Standards.
$24–$31 hourly wages
$55,725 annual salary
Average wages for Portland-area dental assistants according to the Oregon Employment Department.
Award information
| Award | Length (attending full-time) | Financial aid eligible | Currently accepting students? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Certificate: Dental Assisting | 1 year | Limited entry, see how to apply to Dental Assisting |
Locations
Vanport Building
What will you learn?
Class information
Dental Assisting in the news
PCC will prepare you to provide the complete range of services dental assistants provide:
- Clinical laboratory skills
- Handling water, air, and suction devices
- Mixing dental cements, bases, and impression materials
- Office management
- Oral hygiene instruction
- Organization of the treatment room
- Recording medical and dental histories
- Rubber dam use
- Sealant and fluoride application
- Sterilizing instruments
- Study model preparation
- Topical anesthetic placement
- X-ray filming and developing
What will you do?
Transfer options
You should speak with an advisor at the institution you plan to transfer to, as they will have the final decision in determining which of the PCC credits are transferable and accepted.
Certified Expanded Functions Dental Assistants (EFDA) are in high demand. Dental assistants are hired by private dental offices and large dental clinics.
To work as a dental assistant in Oregon, graduates must take the Radiation Health and Safety exam and demonstrate the ability to take dental radiographs. Graduates are also eligible for the Oregon Expanded Function Assisting (EFDA) endorsement. Further testing through the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) allows graduates to become Certified Dental Assistants (CDA). For additional information about the testing and certification process, please contact the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) at 1-800-367-3262.
Take the next step
Applying to PCC is free and only takes a few minutes.Apply to PCCLimited entry awards have an additional application process. See each award page for all prerequisite requirements.
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