If you’re considering pursuing a career in Florida as a dental assistant, you might immediately think, “How much will it cost to become a dental assistant?” The good news is, the path to becoming a dental assistant is somewhat inexpensive compared with other health careers. The cost, however, may vary depending on the route taken, either through formal education or on-the-job training. In this blog, we are going to break down some of the costs associated with becoming a dental assistant in Florida and help you know what to expect in tuition, certification, and other expenses.
- Cost of Formal Education
One of the most common ways to become a dental assistant in Florida is through a formal dental assisting program. These programs typically offer a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on clinical training. The cost of these programs varies based on the school, location, and program length, but here’s an average breakdown:
- Community College Programs: Tuition for dental assisting programs at community colleges in Florida can range from $3,000 to $6,000. These programs usually take about 9 months to a year to complete and may also include fees for books, uniforms, and supplies, which could add another $500 to $1,000 to the overall cost.
- Vocational or Technical Schools: Vocational or technical schools may also offer dental assisting programs. Tuition costs here can range from $4,000 to $10,000, depending on the length of the program and whether it includes additional certifications or specializations.
- Private Institutions: Some private schools may offer dental assisting programs with more personalized attention or faster completion times. Tuition at these institutions can be higher, typically ranging from $7,000 to $15,000.
In addition to tuition, students should budget for other costs, including textbooks, equipment, and personal supplies. Some schools may also charge application or registration fees, which can range from $50 to $200.
- Cost of Certifications
While formal education provides a strong foundation, becoming a dental assistant in Florida typically requires certain certifications in order to legally perform certain duties, such as taking X-rays or performing expanded functions. Here are some of the key certifications you may need and their associated costs:
- Radiology Certification: In Florida, dental assistants who wish to take X-rays must complete a radiology certification course. These courses typically cost between $300 to $600, depending on the provider and whether it’s part of your dental assisting program. The Florida Department of Health must approve the course, and after completion, you will need to take an exam to become certified.
- Expanded Function Dental Assistant (EFDA): An EFDA certification allows dental assistants to perform additional duties, such as placing fillings or taking impressions. The cost of EFDA certification in Florida varies, but you can expect to pay between $1,000 to $2,000 for the required coursework and examination.
- CPR Certification: Many dental assistant programs require students to be certified in CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation). This certification is often included in dental assisting programs, but if you need to take it separately, it typically costs between $50 to $150.
- National or State Certifications: Although Florida does not require dental assistants to obtain national certification, some employers prefer or require it. The cost of national certification exams through organizations such as the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) can be about $250 to $400 per exam.
- On-the-Job Training Option
While formal education remains the most popular route, there is also an opportunity to acquire the training as a dental assistant by on-the-job training in Florida. A few employers will hire dental assistants who have had no formal education as long as they are willing to learn on the job. Such training usually occurs under the supervision of a licensed dentist and could include X-ray procedures, equipment sterilization, and assistance with dental procedures.
Costs associated with on-the-job training are much lower, but you still may have to finance any necessary certifications, like the radiology certification or EFDA, if an employer doesn’t pick those up. You can expect this to cost in the range of $300 to $2,000 depending on what is needed/required.
One downfall of on-the-job training is that it can take more time to develop your skills and certification, while the program can be attended formally for dental assistance. On the positive side, it provides you with earning an income as you learn and may be a little more affordable at the outset.
- Additional Costs to Consider
Aside from tuition and certification costs, there are a few other expenses you should be prepared for as you work toward becoming a dental assistant in Florida:
- Uniforms and Supplies: Most dental assisting programs require students to wear scrubs or other professional uniforms, which can cost between $50 to $200. You may also need additional supplies, such as gloves, masks, or dental instruments, depending on the program.
- Examination Fees: Some certification exams may require a separate fee. For example, the cost for the radiology certification exam is typically around $50 to $100.
- Continuing Education: Dental assistants in Florida are required to complete continuing education to maintain certifications. The cost for continuing education courses typically ranges from $50 to $300 per course, depending on the topic.
- Financial Aid and Scholarships
If you’re concerned about the costs of becoming a dental assistant in Florida, there are several financial aid options available to help you cover expenses:
- Federal Student Aid: If you’re attending a school that participates in federal financial aid programs, you may qualify for federal student loans or grants. Be sure to fill out the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) to see what assistance is available.
- Scholarships: Some dental assisting programs offer scholarships based on academic performance or financial need. You can also look for external scholarships from professional organizations, such as the Florida Dental Assistants Association (FDAA).
- Employer Assistance: If you’re pursuing on-the-job training, some employers offer tuition reimbursement or assistance with certification costs. It’s worth asking potential employers if they provide any financial support for training or continuing education.
The cost of becoming a dental assistant in Florida depends on your pathway to education and which certifications your future job will require. Dental assisting programs tend to cost between $3,000-$15,000, while certification can add up to $300-$2,000 more to your overall expense. On-the-job training is cheaper to get into, but you’ll still want to account for certifications and other fees in your budget.
Considering these costs, dental assisting is a well-paying job with excellent prospects and scope for further advancement. You will have more earning potential with certification opportunities and continuing education, ultimately finding this job very rewarding and promising in the dental field. Plus, with financial aid, you don’t necessarily have to pay for all the training out of pocket. If you are ready to take the next step in becoming a dental assistant, Florida has options to get you started at many different price points.