Most dental assistants in the past learned their skills on the job. However, many dentists now prefer to hire trained assistants. Most training programs approved by the American Dental Association's Commission on Dental Accreditation are given by community colleges and take 1-2 years. East Central, Penn Valley, North Central Missouri State, South East Missouri State University. Number of jobs expected to increase due to growth in dental insurance coverage and number of older people in the population.
Turnover creates many openings.
About one-fourth find other jobs or leave the work force each year. American Dental Assistants Association 919 N. Michigan Avenue.