Dental Assisting Program | Citrus College

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AFFILIATED AREA
California License Examination Passage Rates

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Dental Assisting Program
Health Sciences Department

The Citrus College Dental Assisting program provides students with the education and hands-on experience needed to obtain licensure as a registered dental assistant (RDA). Designed to meet the evolving demands of today's health care environment, the program equips graduates with the knowledge, technical skill and professionalism essential for success in a dynamic dental field.

In addition, in summer session 2026, students may advance their training through the Orthodontic Assistant Permit Course, which offers specialized instruction in orthodontic assisting duties as defined by the California Dental Practice Act. This occupational skills course meets the didactic, laboratory and clinical requirements established by the Dental Board of California and prepares eligible students — current registered or unlicensed dental assistants — to take the Orthodontic Assistant Permit (OAP) examination.

📌 REQUIREMENTS
Attendance at a dental assisting program information session is mandatory to receive an application packet. During the session, the dental assisting faculty coordinator will review all program requirements in detail. See the schedule of upcoming mandatory information sessions.

Dental assisting is an exciting and rewarding career that offers numerous opportunities for growth and advancement within the dental profession. The program also provides a strong academic foundation for students who wish to pursue a bachelor's degree or further study in health sciences.

Our dedicated faculty are committed to preparing students to become competent, compassionate members of the dental health team. As future dental professionals, students are encouraged to develop their skills to their fullest potential, ensuring that every patient receives the highest quality of care.

Renowned for excellence, affordability and a supportive learning environment, the dental assisting program offers a rigorous curriculum designed to challenge and inspire. Students dedicated to their studies benefit from faculty who are deeply invested in their success, and many graduates describe significant growth in both professional skill and personal confidence through their experience at Citrus College.

ABOUT THE PROGRAM

The dental assisting program offers a comprehensive, hands-on education that prepares students for success in today's dynamic dental field. Accredited by both the Dental Board of California and the Commission on Dental Accreditation of the American Dental Association, the program provides the skills, confidence and professional foundation needed to excel. Students are prepared to take the Dental Assisting National Board Examination and the California State Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) Exam.

Graduates earn a Certificate of Achievement in Dental Assisting and are eligible to sit for state and national licensing exams. In addition, students complete training that leads to multiple professional certifications, including radiation safety, infection control, dental practice act, coronal polish and pit and fissure sealant. The program consists of 31.5 units, all applicable toward an associate degree in dental assisting.

Employment outcomes are consistently strong, with more than 90 percent of graduates securing positions shortly after completion. Program graduates also maintain an impressive 80–90 percent pass rate on the California State Board RDA Exam, reflecting the program's ongoing commitment to excellence and student success.

Visit the college catalog for more information about the program.

CURRICULUM

The dental assisting program offers more than 1,000 hours of comprehensive training in eight-week modules designed to provide flexibility and support student success. Students can begin the program twice a year — in August or February — with both full-time and part-time enrollment options. Those starting in the fall can complete the program in two semesters full-time, while spring entrants can finish in three. Part-time students have up to three years to complete the program, allowing for an adaptable schedule that meets a variety of needs.

Students begin their studies with classroom and laboratory instruction focused on dental materials, chairside assisting, instrumentation and oral anatomy. They then advance to hands-on clinical experience, earning their x-ray license during radiology training and completing 300 hours in local dental offices and Western University. Each student rotates through both general and specialty practices, gaining real-world experience under the supervision of practicing dentists and their teams. The program also includes preparation for registered dental assistant functions, including certification in coronal polishing and pit and fissure sealants.

Taught by expert faculty with years of professional experience, the program combines high-quality instruction with the latest dental technologies. Students train in modern labs and classrooms that reflect today's clinical standards, ensuring they graduate confident, skilled and career-ready to join the dental health care team.

PROGRAM COSTS AND MATERIALS

Costs are approximate and subject to change. Information is current as of May 22, 2025.

Registration (31.5 units x $46 per unit, health fee, service fee, parking) – $1,449.00
Health Fee ($26 per semester) – $78.00
Internship Document Tracking – $75.00
Parking ($70 per semester) – $210.00
Student Service Fee – $45.00
Textbooks
- Basics: Modern Dental Assisting (current edition) – $150.00
- Dental Materials: Dental Materials Properties and Manipulation (current edition) – $75.00
- Exam Review Book: Essentials of Dental Radiography (current edition) – $100.00
- Practice Management: Practice Management for the Dental Team (current edition) – $100.00
- Lecture Guides (for each class) – $100.00
Hepatitis B Vaccine or signed refusal form and current TB Test (cost varies greatly depending on your health insurance) – $100.00
*This is required in order to be approved for enrollment.
Lab Coat, Uniform, Shoes (lab coat, shoes, socks, three uniforms) – $200.00 (approximate cost)
*Minimum of two sets are required and DUE first day of class
Miscellaneous supplies for lab (gloves, mask, safety glasses, etc.) – $200.00
*This is required and DUE first week of class.
CPR - $75.00
*This is required in order to be approved for enrollment. Student must show proof (copy of both sides of card) of and maintain a current Basic Life Support (BLS) Healthcare Provider certification (Level C) card.
ESTIMATED TOTAL: $2,957.00

When choosing a dental assisting program, it's important to compare key factors such as program cost, graduate employment rates and RDA written and practical exam pass rates. Community colleges in California typically offer the most affordable option for career technical education, including RDA training, while maintaining high standards of quality. For students seeking financial assistance, contact the financial aid office at (626) 914-8592.

CLASS HOURS AND LOCATION

Most courses are offered twice each academic year and most are four hours in length. Course days/times vary. Refer to the online class semester/session schedules for more details.

The dental classroom and lab facilities are located in the Professional Center (PC) Building, rooms PC 215 and PC 217. The PC Building sits on the northeast side of campus at Barranca Avenue and Foothill Boulevard. It is a three-story building, with the dental classroom on the second floor on the west side.

CAREER AND EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Review the Career and Academic Pathways (CAPs) for dental assisting on the college catalog website.

Check out the Citrus College Career Coach website for updated information about dental assisting careers.

EMPLOYMENT IN DENTAL ASSISTING
As an essential part of the dental health team, dental assistants have a wide range of career opportunities available to them. They can work in private or specialty practices, community clinics, public health departments or hospital settings — each offering the chance to make a real impact on patient care. The dental field also provides multiple pathways for professional growth, including advancement to roles such as registered dental assistant in extended functions (RDAEF), dental hygienist, dental lab technician or even educator. Some graduates also pursue careers with dental supply or insurance companies or continue on to dental school.

Dental assistants play a vital role in creating a positive and efficient experience for patients. They prepare patients for treatment, assist dentists during procedures and perform hands-on tasks such as sterilizing instruments, setting up treatment rooms and preparing dental materials. Licensed RDAs take on additional responsibilities, including fabricating temporary crowns and placing orthodontic separators and arch wires.

For more information about job outlooks and salaries in this field, visit the U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Outlook Handbook or the California Employment Development Department's Labor Market Information page.