Frequently Asked Questions

Dental assisting continues to be a growing profession with strong demand for trained professionals. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of dental assistants is projected to grow 6% between 2024 and 2034, which is faster than the average for all occupations. The agency also projects about 52,900 job openings each year, creating continued opportunities for those entering the field.
For many students, that means graduating into a profession with steady demand and opportunities to build a long-term career.

Every dental assisting program has its own approach to training. At Avid Dental Academy, we’ve chosen to keep class sizes small so students receive more individualized attention throughout the program.
With a maximum of 10 students per class, direct access to instructors, clinical training, and a supervised externship, you’ll have more opportunities to build your knowledge, strengthen your skills, and prepare for your first role in a dental practice.

Dental assisting can offer a rewarding career with competitive earning potential. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for dental assistants was $47,300 in 2024, or $22.74 per hour. Your earnings may be higher or lower depending on factors such as your experience, employer, responsibilities, and where you work.

The Dental Assistant Program can be completed in 13 weeks. The program is designed to help students complete their training in a shorter timeframe while building the knowledge and skills needed for entry-level dental assisting positions.

Avid Dental Academy’s program was developed by a practicing dentist and built around the workflow of a real dental practice. Students build their knowledge and skills in Avid Dental Academy’s dedicated simulated lab while gaining valuable exposure to the daily operations of Arkansas Family Dental through clinical immersion.
The program also includes a 50-hour supervised externship, giving students additional experience in a working dental practice before graduation. Combined with small class sizes of no more than 10 students, you’ll have more opportunities to work closely with instructors, ask questions, and practice the skills you’ll use throughout your career.

No. Most coursework is completed online during the week. You’ll come to Avid Dental Academy for scheduled Saturday lab sessions, where you’ll practice clinical skills and receive instruction from your instructors.

No. Previous dental or healthcare experience isn’t required. The program is designed to teach you the knowledge and skills needed to begin a career in dental assisting, whether you’re entering the workforce for the first time or changing careers.

Yes. Whether you’re already working in a dental office or looking to expand your skills, you can enroll in the program if you meet the admissions requirements. The program provides structured training that can help strengthen your knowledge and prepare you for additional responsibilities in a dental practice.

No. All students are required to complete every part of the Dental Assistant Program. This ensures everyone receives the same instruction, laboratory training, and clinical experience before graduation.

Saturday laboratory sessions are offered in two schedules: 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Students can choose the session that works best for their schedule.

Avid Dental Academy maintains a 1:10 instructor-to-student ratio during laboratory training. This helps ensure students receive guidance, feedback, and opportunities to practice their skills throughout the program.

If you choose to pay tuition in full, the full balance is due at enrollment. Students using the interest-free payment plan will pay $1,075 at enrollment, with the remaining balance divided into scheduled payments throughout the program.

Yes. You may cancel your enrollment at any time. Students who cancel within three business days of enrolling are entitled to a full refund of all monies paid.

If you cancel after the three business day cancellation period but before classes begin, you’re entitled to a refund of all monies paid, less a cancellation fee of up to $150.

Yes, within each week’s schedule. The online portion of the program offers flexibility, allowing you to complete coursework when it’s most convenient for you. However, assignments must be completed by the scheduled deadlines to stay on track with the program.

A smartphone may be useful for viewing some course materials, but it is not recommended for completing the program. A computer is the preferred device for accessing lessons, submitting assignments, and completing coursework throughout the program.

Yes. Students receive laboratory training using the equipment, instruments, and materials commonly found in a dental practice.

Yes. Students receive instruction and practice taking dental X-rays as part of the program’s laboratory training. You’ll learn proper techniques, safety procedures, and the role dental radiographs play in patient care.

A clinical externship is an opportunity to apply what you’ve learned in an approved dental practice. During the 50-hour supervised externship, you’ll observe daily operations, apply the skills you’ve developed throughout the program, and gain experience working alongside dental professionals.
Externships are educational, unpaid, and are not considered employment. Their purpose is to help you build practical experience while preparing for a career as a dental assistant.

To graduate from Avid Dental Academy, you must complete all 131 clock hours, successfully finish the 50-hour supervised externship, earn a minimum 70% course average, and satisfy all financial obligations to the school. Meeting these requirements demonstrates you’ve successfully completed the Dental Assistant Program.

Upon successfully completing the program, you’ll receive a Dental Assisting Certificate of Course Completion, Radiography Certificate, Nitrous Oxide Certificate, and CPR/BLS Certification. These credentials recognize the training you’ve completed throughout the program and can help prepare you for opportunities in the dental field.

No. Graduating from Avid Dental Academy doesn’t automatically make you licensed. To become licensed in Arkansas, you must submit an application to the Arkansas State Board of Dental Examiners and successfully complete the Arkansas Jurisprudence Exam.
If you plan to work outside of Arkansas, licensing or registration requirements may vary by state. Be sure to check with the appropriate dental licensing board for the state where you intend to practice.