Dental Assistant careers in Arkansas are currently in high demand. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects employment of dental assistants to grow 19 percent from 2016 to 2026, much faster than the average for all occupations
There are several possible paths to becoming a dental assistant. Some states require dental assistants to graduate from a CODA accredited program and pass an exam. In other states, there are no formal educational requirements and dental assistants learn how to perform their duties through on-the-job training. Below are the schools that offer dental assistant programs located within the state of Arkansas and sorted by CODA accredited schools and vocational post-secondary schools.
Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) Accredited Programs in Arkansas
Arkansas Dental Assistant Schools Enrolling Now
Salaries for Dental Assistants in Arkansas
The average salary for Dental Assistants is approximately $28,590. In addition to paid wages, some Dental Assistants are offered benefits such as paid vacations, provided that they are hired as a full-time employee. (Figures courtesy of the U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Employment & Wages database.)
Training for Dental Assistants in the Arkansas
Many Dental Assistants are trained by attending a 1 year Dental Assisting program that is usually offered by community colleges, trade schools, or a technical training institute. However many states will require additional certification or licensing if the student would like to be involved with more advanced functions, such as radiological procedures.
Is Financial Aid Available?
You may qualify for financial aid while taking Dental Assisting courses. It is advised that you check with your schools financial aid department. However, you may also visit https://www.fafsa.ed.gov and fill out the application.