Best Dental Assisting Schools In Citrus Heights, California 2025

By BestDentalAssistantSchool Editorial Team
Published January 15, 2025
5 min readUpdated February 28, 2025

Exploring Dental Assisting Schools In Citrus Heights, California

Dental Assisting is a vital profession in the healthcare sector, responsible for supporting dental practitioners during treatments, educating patients, and ensuring a smooth workflow in dental offices. Citrus Heights, California, offers a welcoming environment for aspiring dental assistants, combining access to quality training programs with a vibrant community. As the demand for dental services continues to rise, this city is positioned as an excellent location for individuals looking to start a career in this field.

Citrus Heights possesses a blend of excellent educational institutions, hands-on training opportunities, and proximity to a growing job market in the healthcare industry. The availability of accredited dental assisting programs enables students to gain the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in their careers. With a focus on practical training, students often benefit from interactions with experienced faculty members and can leverage local networking opportunities to secure employment post-graduation.

Best Dental Assisting Schools Near Citrus Heights, California

Below are the top ranked dental assisting schools in the surrounding areas of Citrus Heights, California

Address: 8909 Folsom Blvd., Sacramento,California, Sacramento County, 95826
In-State Tuition: $N/A
Out-of-State Tuition: $N/A
Full-time Enrollment: 2,288
Graduation Rate: 52%
Admission Rate: N/A
Programs Offered: 1
Available Dental Assisting Degree Programs:
Dental Assisting and Technology
Dental Assisting Degrees: Certificate, Associate's
Online Dental Assisting Degrees Offered: None
Address: 3835 Freeport Blvd, Sacramento,California, Sacramento County, 95822-1386
Address: 321 Golf Club Rd, Pleasant Hill,California, Contra Costa County, 94523

Common Admission Requirements For Dental Assisting SchoolsIn Citrus Heights, California

Enrolling in a Dental Assisting program in Citrus Heights typically involves the following admission requirements:

  • High School Diploma or Equivalent: Most programs require a completed high school education or G.E.D.

  • Prerequisite Coursework: Students may need to have completed courses in biology, chemistry, and mathematics. Some programs may also recommend courses in health sciences.

  • Application Form: Prospective students must fill out an application form specific to the institution they are interested in.

  • Interview Process: Some programs might conduct interviews to assess the applicant's passion and commitment to the dental field.

  • Background Check: Given the nature of the profession, many schools will require students to undergo a background check.

  • Certification Expectations: Some programs may require students to obtain CPR certification before admission or during their studies.

Meeting these requirements ensures that students are well-prepared for their education and future careers.

Cost & Financial Aid Options For Dental Assisting Schools In Citrus Heights, California

The cost of Dental Assisting programs in Citrus Heights can vary widely, and students can expect to pay between $5,000 to $15,000 for tuition, depending on the length and depth of the program. Here’s a breakdown of potential costs:

  • Tuition Fees: The primary expense, which can cover your courses and materials.

  • Additional Costs: Books, uniforms, and equipment may add an extra $500 to $1,000.

Potential financial aid options available to students include:

  • Federal Financial Aid: Many programs are eligible for federal loans and grants, requiring the completion of the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid).

  • State Aid Programs: California offers various assistance programs for qualified students.

  • Scholarships and Grants: Local organizations and schools often provide scholarships specifically for dental assisting students.

  • Payment Plans: Some institutions may offer payment plans to help manage tuition payments over time.

Exploring these options can significantly reduce the financial burden associated with obtaining a dental assisting education.

Dental Assistant Salary in California
Annual Median: $48,210
Hourly Median: $23.18
Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.
PercentileAnnual Salary
10th$37,800
25th$45,930
Median$48,210
75th$59,260
90th$72,300

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Dental Assisting Schools In Citrus Heights, California

  1. What is the duration of a Dental Assisting program in Citrus Heights?

    • Most programs range from 9 months to 2 years, depending on whether they are certificates or associate degrees.
  2. Are there online Dental Assisting programs?

    • While theoretical components can be completed online, hands-on training is essential, so most programs require in-person attendance.
  3. Do I need any prior healthcare experience to enroll?

    • No prior experience is necessary, though coursework in related subjects can be beneficial.
  4. What certifications are available for dental assistants?

    • The California Dental Board offers the Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) certification.
  5. Is financial aid available for Dental Assisting programs?

    • Yes, multiple federal and state financial aid options exist, including scholarships.
  6. Can I work while attending school?

    • Many students manage part-time jobs; however, it’s important to balance work and study commitments.
  7. What skills will I learn during the program?

    • Students will learn clinical procedures, patient care, radiology, and office management.
  8. Do I need to pass an exam after completing the program?

    • Yes, many graduates take the RDA exam to obtain certification.
  9. How do I find job opportunities after graduation?

    • Utilize job placement services offered by your school and local dental associations’ job boards.
  10. What is the job market like for dental assistants in California?

    • The job market is favorable, with high demand for dental assistants projected to continue growing.