Start Your Career in the Dental Field
Working in the dental field offers a rewarding career path with short training periods and strong job prospects. Dental assistants can gain formal education through vocational schools, community colleges, technical institutes, or dental schools. Most dental assisting programs take between 7 to 11 months to complete, with some colleges offering part-time options.
To become a Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) in Alberta, students must pass the national certification exam, opening the door to various career opportunities.
Career Opportunities in Dental Assisting
Once you become a Registered Dental Assistant, you can explore careers in different areas, including:
- Registered Dental Assistant
- Public Health Dental Assistant
- Dental Specialty Assistant
- Denturist Assistant
- Dental Assistant Educator
- Clinical Float Assistant
- Continuing Care Coordinator
- Infection Prevention and Control Clerk
- Dental Administrator
- Financial Coordinator
- Treatment Coordinator
- Dental Hygiene Coordinator
- Dental Lab Assistant
- Public Educator in Oral Health Prevention
- Dental Sales Representative
- Dental Benefits Representative (Insurance Industry)
Programs and Courses in the Dental Field
Columbia College Calgary offers specialized programs designed to equip students with technical knowledge, hands-on skills, and industry experience to succeed in the dental field.
Dental Assistant Professional Certificate
This comprehensive program provides students with the technical knowledge, skills, and clinical experience needed to become effective dental assistants. The curriculum ensures graduates meet the criteria for the national exam, making them eligible for certification.
Dental Administration Professional Certificate
Designed with industry specialists, this program prepares students for front-desk roles in dental offices, where they interact directly with patients. Dental administrators also provide critical support to dental teams, assisting with office operations, sterilization procedures, and patient coordination.
Dental Assisting Continuing Education
For Registered Dental Assistants (RDAs) in Alberta, Columbia College offers post-graduate modules to enhance their skills and advance in specialized areas of dentistry. These modules include:
- Dental Probing Techniques
- Orthodontic Module
- Clinical Refreshers
- Provisional Coverage and Restorations
- Tooth Whitening
- CPE Skills Practice
- Expanded Skills
Get Started in Your Dental Career
If you’re looking to start or advance your career in dental assisting or administration, Columbia College Calgary offers programs tailored to your goals.
To learn more about program requirements and enrollment, contact Columbia College Calgary today and take the first step toward a rewarding career in the dental field!
