Remote learning is revolutionizing education of every kind, so you might be wondering if you can complete your education to become a dental assistant online. There are many factors to consider when choosing which school is right for you, including the quality of your education. When it comes to anything in the medical field, hands-on is best—even if online is an option.
Can You Become a Dental Assistant Online in Colorado?
Yes, you can. There are a variety of in-state and nationwide online programs to choose from. You can begin some programs the day you enroll. Online programs are typically less expensive and provide the flexibility to take courses at your own pace at any time of day or night.
At first glance, this might sound like the perfect fit, but let’s explore what you’ll be missing if you choose online versus a live classroom setting.
#1 Hands-On Experience
Online programs teach you the technical side of your job duties, but they don’t provide you with the opportunity to practice. This means that your first day on the job will be your first hands-on day, which can be extremely nerve-wracking. Even with video instruction, nothing replaces physical practice.
At AIDA, our students practice with tools, technology, and equipment in both the classroom—and with patients in a live dental clinic.
#2 Not All Online Programs Are Accredited
Many online programs aren’t accredited. Schools that pay for accreditation ensure their program meets or exceeds a set level of education standards. Programs that aren’t accredited may have high standards for their curriculum. However, they may not be as motivated to update their curriculum as accredited schools. With dental technology evolving at a rapid pace, this can be detrimental to your career preparedness.
AIDA is an accredited program. Yes, we cost more than most online programs, but we offer a variety of payment options.
#3 Little or No Instructor Access
Even when you take college courses online, you have direct access to an instructor. This ensures you obtain personalized feedback and receive answers to your questions. Most programs to become a dental assistant online are 100% self-guided. You have quizzes and tests along the way, but you may not have someone to answer your specific questions or coach you on your individual areas of opportunity.
At AIDA both your classroom instructors and clinic dentist provide personalized feedback. We keep our classes small to ensure everyone has the opportunity to learn and ask questions.
#4 Online Learning Isn’t For Everyone
You may find it difficult to retain information via online coursework. This is particularly true of skills that require hands-on practice to perfect. You may easily retain terminology and fact-based learning, but retaining physical tasks is more challenging online. For example, watching a video on how to take an X-ray is difficult to learn and retain if you don’t have the opportunity to practice.
At AIDA, you practice taking X-rays both in the classroom and in a live dental clinic.
#5 Career Placement
Online programs may be faster to complete, but once you’re done, you’re on your own. At AIDA, career placement is part of our program. We help you update your resume, practice for interviews, and provide career placement assistance. In addition, your classmates are connections you can network with throughout your career. Online, you don’t have any classmates.
Want to Learn More About AIDAs Dental Assisting Programs?
AIDA is proud to be the go-to school many Colorado dentists call first when they have open positions!
We understand that you may need to work full-time while you complete your dental assisting education. This is why we offer convenient evening and weekend classes.
Our Dental Assisting Program is 13 weeks long, so you can realistically launch your new career in 6 months or less. You can continue your education at any time to command a higher salary with our 7 week Expanded Duties Dental Assisting Program.
Reach out to schedule a free tour of our facilities!