Dental Assisting
Dental Assisting
Comprehensive Training and Clinical Excellence for Your Dental Career
Program Overview
Are you drawn to a career in dental health? The Dental Assisting program at College of Western Idaho (CWI) is your gateway to becoming a skilled dental professional. Accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA), this program leads to an Intermediate Technical Certificate or an Associate of Applied Science degree. You will engage in competency-based classroom, laboratory, and clinical instruction, in collaboration with local dental offices. After completing the program, you're eligible for the National Dental Assisting Certification Exam, earning the prestigious title of Certified Dental Assistant.
Your journey includes learning front office management, aseptic techniques, patient care, dental materials, dental radiology, and dental anatomy. Supervised hands-on experiences in clinical settings will build your confidence and proficiency.
Learning Opportunities
- Hands-On Clinical Experience: Apply theory in real-world dental scenarios, enhancing your practical skills.
- Personalized Training: Benefit from low student-instructor ratios, ensuring focused attention and support.
- Critical Skills Development: Cultivate critical thinking, problem-solving, and troubleshooting skills, crucial for dental assistants.
- Externship Opportunities: Partner with local dental offices for externships, gaining valuable work experience.
- Path to National Certification: Prepare for and earn credentials that set you apart in the dental field.
Areas of Study
Degrees & Certificates
Dental Assisting – Associate of Applied Science Degree
Cost:
$10,645
Dental Assisting – Intermediate Technical Certificate
Cost:
$6,464
Beyond the cost of tuition and fees, classes required in the Dental Assisting program may include special course fees. Students will additionally be responsible for costs associated with immunizations, background and drug screenings, certifications, uniforms, supplies, and health insurance prior to starting the program as outlined on the Dental Assisting Student Requirements page.
Program costs are approximate and subject to change without notice.
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Career Opportunities
192
Annual Openings*
$
35.10
Hourly Median Wage*
$
73,008
Annual Median Salary
18.28
%
Growth (2025 – 2035)*
Perform limited clinical duties under the direction of a dentist. Clinical duties may include equipment preparation and sterilization, preparing patients for treatment, assisting the dentist during treatment, and providing patients with instructions for oral healthcare procedures. May perform administrative duties such as scheduling appointments, maintaining medical records, billing, and coding information for insurance purposes.
161
Annual Openings*
$
18.11
Hourly Median Wage*
$
37,668
Annual Median Salary
14.86
%
Growth (2025 – 2035)*
*Data sourced from Lightcast™ (2023), a global leader in labor market analytics, and limited to the state of Idaho. Contact CWI Institutional Research for questions regarding this data. Career pathways may require further education beyond CWI.
Admissions
Step 1
- Review the Dental Assisting Student Requirements.
Step 2
- Apply to CWI.
- Choose Dental Assisting as your major.
Step 3
- Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
Program Accreditation
The Dental Assisting Intermediate Technical Certificate at College of Western Idaho is accredited by:
The Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA)
211 East Chicago Avenue
Chicago, IL 60611-2678
312.440.4653
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Cost & Aid
As a student in this program, you may be eligible for financial aid and scholarships.
Enrichment Opportunities
Enhance your academic experience, expand your knowledge, reach your goals, and celebrate your achievements.
Dental Assisting
Requirements for professional licensure in healthcare and other fields vary from state to state. Contact the appropriate licensing agency in the state or territory you intend to work to verify this program meets licensure requirements.
Advising
Already a student? We are here to help you navigate your educational journey, connect you to academic and support resources, and achieve your academic or career goals.
Transfer Information
Plan ahead for a smooth transition to a four-year college or university.
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