Professional Certification Program

Dental Assisting Mastery

Since 2019, Union Centre Institute has proudly provided high-quality dental assisting education to the Greater Cincinnati area. Our comprehensive program combines hands-on clinical training, experienced instructors, and national certification preparation to help students launch successful careers in dentistry.

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Duration

21 Weeks (hybrid)

Next Start

January 2027

Dental Assistant
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Program Highlights

21 Weeks

Flexible Duration

Complete your certification on a timeline that works for you

Advanced Dental Technology

Real Practice Experience

Hands-on training in actual dental offices with experienced professionals

Employment Assistance

Job Placement

From resume building to interview workshops, we assist in this process.

National Accreditation

Council on Occupational Education
 
COE Accreditation focuses on quality, accountability and career outcomes. 

Comprehensive Curriculum

Our structured program covers everything you need to become a confident, certified dental assistant

Take your dental education to the next level with our comprehensive Dental Assisting Mastery Program. Designed for students seeking advanced preparation, this program combines extensive hands-on clinical training, a supervised externship experience, and dedicated Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) exam preparation. Students will complete real-world clinical experiences, build confidence in a dental practice setting, and receive preparation for the RDA certification exam, including the opportunity to test at UCI's in-house testing facility.

600 Hours · 21 Weeks · Lecture, Lab & Externship

Foundations & Oral Sciences

Weeks 1-8
  • Dental field history & professional standards
  • Full sterilization & infection control protocols
  • Oral embryology, histology & head/neck anatomy
  • Landmarks, dentitions & tooth morphology
  • Oral pathology, microbiology & pharmacology
  • Ergonomics, patient records & vital signs

General & Specialty Dentistry

Weeks 9-13
  • Restorative & esthetic dental delivery
  • Liners, bases, cements & impression techniques
  • General dentistry & matrix systems
  • Fixed & removable prosthodontics
  • Implants, endodontics & periodontics
  • Oral surgery, pediatrics, polishing & sealants

Radiology, Practice & Certification

Weeks 14-21
  • Radiography foundations & radiation safety
  • Digital, intraoral & extraoral imaging
  • Public health, nutrition & special-needs care
  • Ethics, dental law & business operations
  • Marketing, communication & mock interviews
  • DANB exam review & clinical comprehensive testing

Essential Skills You'll Learn

Chairside Assistance Digital X-Rays Infection Control Patient Communication Dental Materials Radiography Sterilization Treatment Planning Dental Terminology Dental Software Emergency Procedures

Your Career. Your Future.

Your dental assisting education can be the beginning of a rewarding career in oral healthcare. Many dental assistants build valuable experience before pursuing additional certifications, specialties, or advanced education.

Dental Assistant Specialties

Build experience in a variety of practice settings including orthodontics, oral surgery, pediatric dentistry, endodontics, periodontics, prosthodontics, and general dentistry.

Expanded Functions

With additional state-approved education and certification, dental assistants may qualify to perform expanded clinical duties where permitted.

Dental Hygiene

Many dental assistants choose to continue their education through an accredited dental hygiene program to expand their clinical skills and responsibilities.

Dentistry (DMD/DDS)

Experience as a dental assistant can provide valuable clinical exposure for individuals who later
pursue dental school through an accredited university.

Student Success Stories

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need prior healthcare experience?

No prior experience is necessary. Our comprehensive program starts with fundamentals and builds your skills progressively. Many of our most successful graduates came from completely different career backgrounds.

What's included in the program cost?

Tuition includes all textbooks, materials, certification exam preparation, and clinical externship placement. The only additional costs are optional state licensure fees and certification exam fees.

Do I need prior healthcare experience?

No prior experience is necessary. Our comprehensive program starts with fundamentals and builds your skills progressively. Many of our most successful graduates came from completely different career backgrounds.

Can I work while completing the program?

Yes! Our hybrid schedule is designed for working adults. Online coursework is self-paced, and hands-on sessions are scheduled evenings and weekends to accommodate most work schedules.

What certifications will I earn?

You'll be prepared for the DANB CDA (Certified Dental Assistant) exam, radiation safety certification, and CPR certification. Additional state-specific certifications vary by location.

How quickly can I start working?

Most graduates receive job offers during their externship or within 30 days of completion. Our career services team actively connects students with hiring dental practices throughout the program.

Ready to Start Your Dental Career?

Classes are filling fast. Secure your spot in our next Dental Assisting cohort and take the first step toward a rewarding healthcare career.

Apply Now
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Starts September 2026

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