How long is HCI's Dental Assisting program?

Houston Career Institute's Dental Assisting program is an 11-month diploma program. The curriculum includes chairside dental assisting, dental radiography, infection control, preventive dentistry, and dental office administration.

What is included in HCI's Dental Assisting curriculum?

The program covers chairside assisting techniques, dental radiography (X-rays), four-handed dentistry, instrument sterilization, dental materials, dental anatomy, and front-office operations including patient scheduling and insurance.

Does the program prepare students for the Texas Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) credential?

Yes. Houston Career Institute's Dental Assisting program is designed to prepare students for the Texas State Board of Dental Examiners Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) credential, which is required for many dental assisting roles in Texas.

What are the admission requirements?

Applicants need a high school diploma or equivalent (GED). HCI's admissions team meets individually with each applicant to review documents and discuss financial aid and start dates.

Is financial aid available?

Yes. Houston Career Institute is approved for federal financial aid programs including Pell Grants and federal student loans for students who qualify, plus institutional payment plans.

How does HCI support Dental Assisting graduates with job placement?

HCI's Career Services team works with graduates on resume preparation, interview practice, and connections to dental practices in the Houston area. Career Services provides placement assistance; HCI does not guarantee employment.

Allied Health

Dental Assisting

Train to become a vital member of a dental healthcare team. Learn chairside assisting, radiography, sterilization, and patient care in our hands-on program.

In as few as 11 Months

Registered Dental Assistant (RDA)

940 Clock Hours

Program Length

Certification

Industry Recognized

Small Classes

Personal Attention

Career Services

Job Placement Help

Comprehensive Chairside Training
Trains students in chairside dental assisting, dental anatomy, infection control, dental radiography and imaging, dental materials, restorative techniques, and dental office management at HCI's Houston campus.
300-Hour Externship in Houston
Includes a 300-hour externship across a minimum of two approved Houston-area dental offices, with more than 50% of hours completed in general dentistry practices.
Path to RDA Certification
Graduates may be eligible to sit for the TSBDE Texas Jurisprudence Assessment, the DANB Infection Control Exam (ICE), and the DANB Radiation Health and Safety (RHS) exam, and may then apply through TSBDE for Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) certification. Graduates also receive CPR certification from the American Heart Association.

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Financial aid for those who qualify.

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Program Overview

Our Dental Assisting program prepares you for an exciting career in dental healthcare. You'll learn to assist dentists during procedures, take dental x-rays, prepare patients for treatment, and manage sterilization protocols. With hands-on training in our simulated dental lab, you'll graduate ready to excel in any dental practice.

The Dental Assisting program is offered at our Southwest Houston campus, where small classes and hands-on labs are part of an ACCSC-accredited career training environment. Tuition assistance is available through our financial aid options for those who qualify, and graduates receive ongoing support from our career services team as well as introductions to local healthcare employer partners. Ready to apply? Review the steps on our admissions and enrollment page.

Hands-On Training

Get real-world experience in our industry-standard training facilities.

Curriculum Highlights

Dental Anatomy & Terminology

Chairside Assisting Procedures

Dental Radiography (X-rays)

Sterilization & Infection Control

Dental Materials & Instruments

Patient Management & Communication

Dental Office Administration

Impressions & Study Models

Oral Health Education

Clinical Externship

Certifications This Program Prepares You For

Registered Dental Assistant (RDA)

Texas State Board of Dental Examiners

State registration allowing you to perform expanded dental assisting duties in Texas

Where This Career Path Can Take You

Explore the career paths and advancement opportunities available after completing this program.

Entry Level

Dental Assistant

Assist dentists with procedures, take x-rays, and manage patient care.

0-2 years

Mid Level

Orthodontic / Specialty Assistant

Specialize in orthodontics, oral surgery, or pediatric dentistry.

2-4 years

Senior Level

Expanded Functions Dental Assistant

Perform advanced procedures like coronal polishing and sealant application.

4-6 years

Leadership

Office Manager / Practice Administrator

Oversee dental practice operations, staff, and patient experience.

6+ years