What is an Administrative Dental Assistant?

An administrative dental assistant traditionally works in a dental office supporting dental hygienists and dentists. They provide support in a fast-paced environment for the day-to-day operations of a dental practice's front office, including anything from scheduling appointments and working closely with patients and other office staff to billing patients and insurance and overseeing bookkeeping. Additional duties might involve performing procedural and diagnostic coding, organizing patient files, or monitoring inventory.

What is the difference between a Clinical Dental Assistant and an Administrative Dental Assistant?

As an administrative dental assistant, you will focus on providing quality care through numerous office, laboratory, and patient care duties, such as greeting patients, organizing office records, and other clerical tasks. On the other hand, a clinical dental assistant will help dentists and dental hygienists get patients ready for treatment by sterilizing and organizing dental equipment and supplies. They also document patient care, take x-rays, complete intake paperwork and update patient records, and in some cases, assist with certain procedures depending on state regulations.

What is the average salary of an Administrative Dental Assistant?

The average salary of a dental assistant will vary based on experience and location, among other things. Nationwide, dental assistants earn a median salary of $41,180, while the highest 10% earn close to $60,000, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The position typically includes great benefits like healthcare and paid time off. In addition, according to the BLS, one in three dental assistants works only part-time, making this an ideal career for those who need a flexible schedule.

Do you have to go to school to be an Administrative Dental Assistant?

Dental receptionists and administrative assistants will typically need a high school diploma or GED. Most employers don't require a college education. Instead, they'll look for demonstrable skills like word processing, verbal communication, and familiarity with industry software and best practices. While there are dental assistant certifications available, you can prove you have these skills with this online administrative dental assistant course. You'll receive a certificate at the end of the course, and you'll be able to put all your new skills on your resume.

What are the roles and responsibilities of a Dental Assistant?

Administrative dental assistants provide support for the day-to-day operations of a dental practice, from scheduling appointments and organizing patient files to billing and bookkeeping. You'll work in a fast-paced environment as part of a team that includes dental hygienists and dentists. As the point of contact for patients and your team, you'll find dental administration is a rewarding and fulfilling career.

Does this course prepare you for a certification?

No.

When can I start the course?

This course is open enrollment, so you can register and start the course as soon as you are ready. Access to your course can take 24-48 business hours.

How long does it take to complete this course?

This course is self-paced and open enrollment, so you can start when you want and finish at your own pace. When you register, you'll receive six (6) months to complete the course.

What if I don't have enough time to complete my course within the time frame provided?

The time allotted for course completion has been calculated based on the number of course hours. However, if you are unable to complete the course, contact the student advising team to see what options you may have available to work out a suitable completion date. Please note that an extension fee may be charged.

What kind of support will I receive?

Our courses are designed to accommodate various learning preferences. Depending on the course structure, you may get different forms of support. Self-paced courses are designed to be user-friendly and independent, minimizing the need for external support. In courses with instructors, our direct platform support feature includes opportunities for questions, discussions, and remediation, with email and phone support available for select courses. Our student advising team is available to guide you on program requirements and administrative requests, but they do not provide assistance with course content. Our goal is to provide you with the necessary support for success, whether it's through self-paced exploration, direct communication, or guidance from our advising team.

What happens when I complete the course?

Upon successful completion of the course, you will be awarded a Certificate of Completion.

Am I guaranteed a job?

This course will provide you with the skills you need to obtain an entry-level position in most cases. Potential students should always do research on the job market in their area before registering.

Can I get financial assistance?

This course is non-credit, so it does not qualify for federal aid, FAFSA and Pell Grant. In some states, vocational rehab or workforce development boards will pay for qualified students to take our courses. Additionally, some students may qualify for financial assistance when they enroll, if they meet certain requirements. Financing is available from select schools. Learn more about financial assistance.

How can I get more information about this course?

If you have questions that are not answered on our website, representatives are available via LIVE chat. You can also call us at 1-877-221-5151 during regular business hours to have your questions promptly answered. If you are visiting us during non-business hours, please send us a question using the "Contact Us" form.