Our online dental assistant courses leverage the flexibility of blended learning to train students in the technical, clinical, and administrative skills they’ll need to pursue a career in dental assisting.

Online dental assistant training at CHCP is designed to support students balancing goals that matter with a life that doesn’t slow down. Through a blend of online instruction and in-person clinical training, the program introduces core responsibilities such as preparing treatment rooms, assisting during procedures, managing records, and supporting patient communication. Guided by experienced instructors, you’ll have the chance to build skills across both clinical and administrative areas, providing a foundation to pursue entry-level roles in dental care.

Wondering what your learning path looks like? The course breakdown below gives you the details.

Dental Assisting Skills and Course Modules

The primary goal of a dental assistant school is to prepare students with the skills they need to enter the world of dentistry as qualified, entry-level dental assistants. At 48 weeks long, the online dental assisting certification program at CHCP trains students in a foundation of dental assisting knowledge and skills, including everything from tooth morphology and healthcare ethics to dental radiology, equipment utilization, and procedures. With this foundation, students will also have the opportunity to learn more about specific specializations in dental assisting, including periodontics, orthodontics, pedodontics, prosthodontics, and oral surgery. For more information about the specific online dental assistant course modules, explore the breakdown below.

MODULE IMODULE IIMODULE IIIMODULE IVMODULE VMODULE VI

Introduction to Dental Assisting, Dental Office Procedures, Law and Ethics

DAC110

Students will be able to describe key milestones in dental history and identify the dental specialties and the members of the dental team as well as discuss the skills used by the dental assistant, including communication, office management, infection control, and basic chairside assisting. Students will be able to describe the different elements of the dental office, including the design of the dental treatment office, the clinical equipment most commonly found in the dental office, and the basic functions of the dental unit. Students will also learn the functions of the dental business office and the fundamentals of front desk operations, use of dental office management software to schedule appointments, manage dental records, communicate with patients, and handle accounts including the components of an insurance claim form. In addition, the students will be able to summarize the federal and state laws governing dental assisting as well as the ethical principles established by professional dental associations. Prerequisite: None

Lecture	48	hr.
Laboratory	0	hr.
Externship	0	hr.
Total Hours	48	hr.
Credits	48

Anatomy, Physiology, Tooth Morphology, Dental Charting

DAC111

Students will be able to describe the functions of the body systems and identify the landmarks of the oral cavity and the anatomical features of the head and neck. Students will be able to identify the dental arches, the names of the teeth, tooth surfaces, and the structure of the gingiva. Students will identify anatomic features of the teeth, occlusion and malocclusion, and deciduous and permanent dentition. Students will be able to use tooth numbering systems and charting systems to chart existing conditions, restorative procedures, and decay as diagnosed by the dentist. Prerequisite: None

Lecture	48	hr.
Laboratory	0	hr.
Externship	0	hr.
Total Hours	48	hr.
Credits	48

Infection Control

DAC112

Students will be able to identify the types of disease-causing organisms and routes of microbial transmission. Students will demonstrate mastery of infection control techniques and procedures, use of sterilizers, disinfectants, and sterilization monitors, and safe disposal of sharps. Prerequisite: None

Lecture	48	hr.
Laboratory	0	hr.
Externship	0	hr.
Total Hours	48	hr.
Credits	48

Dental Materials and Skills I

DAC114

A skill related clinical lab-based learning experience that enables the student to apply specialized occupational theory, knowledge, skills, and concepts the dental assistants must have to understand the identification, properties, and proper uses of dental materials. Students will learn the dental assistant’s role in restorative procedures. Students will learn to, in a combination of simulations and residential laboratory sessions, to mix materials, take impressions, pour and trim study models, and fabricate custom trays and temporary crowns. Direct supervision is provided by the clinical professional and lectures will be geared toward the State Registration Examination. Prerequisite: DAC110, DAC111

Lecture	36	hr.
Laboratory	60	hr.
Externship	0	hr.
Total Hours	96	hr.
Credits	96

Dental Radiology

DAC113

This course focuses on the knowledge and skills dental assistants must have to properly and safely expose and process dental x-rays. Students will learn about the properties of radiation and the precautions dental assistants must take to protect patients’ health. Students will master the steps of taking a full mouth radiography survey, including exposure and processing techniques. Lecture will be geared toward the State Registration Examination. Related terminology, dental charting/documentation, vital signs, and infection control procedures will also be covered. Prerequisite: None

Lecture	48	hr.
Laboratory	0	hr.
Externship	0	hr.
Total Hours	48	hr.
Credits	48

Dental Procedures and Skills II*

DAC115

A skill related clinical lab-based learning experience that enables the student to apply specialized occupational theory, knowledge, skills, and concepts the dental assistants must have to identify the drugs commonly used in dentistry and how to respond to dental emergencies, including administering CPR. Students will be able to, in a combination of simulations and residential laboratory sessions, demonstrate correct instrument exchange, maintenance of the oral cavity, placement and removal of the dental dam, and administration of anesthetics. Students will practice daily routines for opening and closing the dental office and seating and dismissing the patient. Direct supervision is provided by the clinical professional. Prerequisite: DAC110, DAC111, DAC114

Lecture	36	hr.
Laboratory	60	hr.
Externship	0	hr.
Total Hours	96	hr.
Credits	96

Preventive Dentistry and Nutrition

DAC117

Students will be able to describe how diet affects oral health. Students will learn about the dental team’s role in prevention of decay in relationship to nutrition, including dietary evaluations and oral manifestations of nutritional deficiencies. Students will learn the dental assistant’s role in preventive techniques, including tooth brushing and flossing, fluoride application, dental sealants, and coronal polish. Related terminology, dental charting/documentation, vital signs, and infection control procedures will also be covered. Prerequisite: None

Lecture	48	hr.
Laboratory	0	hr.
Externship	0	hr.
Total Hours	48	hr.
Credits	48

Dental Specialties I (ORAL SURGERY, PROSTHODONTICS, COSMETIC DENTISTRY)

DAC118

Students will learn the dental assistant’s role in oral surgery procedures, fixed and removable prosthodontic treatment, and cosmetic procedures, including how to place and remove a gingival retraction cord. Prerequisite: None

Lecture	48	hr.
Laboratory	0	hr.
Externship	0	hr.
Total Hours	48	hr.
Credits	48

Dental Specialties II (PEDODONTICS, ENDODONTICS, ORTHODONTICS, PERIODONTICS)

DAC119

Students will learn the materials, instruments, and special considerations of the dental specialties of pedodontics, endodontics, orthodontics, and periodontics. Students will demonstrate competency in the dental assistant’s role in common procedures in these specialties. Prerequisite: None

Lecture	48	hr.
Laboratory	0	hr.
Externship	0	hr.
Total Hours	48	hr.
Credits	48

Treatment Areas and Instruments/Accessories and Skills III

DAC116

A skill related clinical lab-based learning experience that enables the student to apply specialized occupational theory, knowledge, skills, and concepts the dental assistants must have for basic patient care, including taking vital signs and assisting with oral evaluation. Students will learn to identify hand instruments, attachments, dental burs, abrasives, and rotary instruments, as well as instrument classification and sequencing. Students will learn to identify different types of oral lesions and oral cancer. Direct supervision is provided by the clinical professional. Prerequisite: DAC115

Lecture	15	hr.
Laboratory	90	hr.
Externship	0	hr.
Total Hours	105	hr.
Credits	105

Dental Assisting Cert Prep

DAC300

This course will provide a review of dental assisting courses taught throughout the program, as well as provide preparation for the Dental Assistant Registry Certification. Prerequisite: Mod I – V

Lecture	30	hr.
Laboratory	0	hr.
Externship	0	hr.
Total Hours	30	hr.
Credits	30

Dental Assisting Externship

DAC301

Students will integrate practice of all dental assistant responsibilities carried out in a dental office or group practice setting under the supervision of a dentist or supervising dental assistant. Use of related terminology, dental charting/documentation, and infection control procedures. Prerequisite: Mod I – V

Lecture	0	hr.
Laboratory	0	hr.
Externship	160	hr.
Total Hours	160	hr.
Credits	160

How Online Dental Assistant Training Works

The program includes online modules, weekend skills labs at select CHCP campuses across Texas, and a supervised externship that connects learning with real dental practice.

Online Coursework

Your online courses will introduce core topics such as anatomy, infection control, dental materials, and administrative procedures. Modules are paced to support busy learners and provide a foundation for hands-on instruction.

Skills Labs at CHCP Campuses

Lab sessions take place on scheduled weekends at CHCP campuses in Austin, Dallas, Fort Worth, Houston, McAllen, or San Antonio. These in-person sessions create an opportunity to develop skills like chairside assisting, dental impressions, and radiograph techniques in a supervised environment.

Externship Experience

After completing your coursework and labs, you’ll participate in a 160-hour externship at a local dental practice. This experience helps you observe clinical workflows, apply what you’ve learned, and gain exposure to patient care.

Certification Preparation

The final portion of the program includes preparation for certification exams, such as the Dental Assistant Registration Examination, which is required for taking X-rays in Texas. Your instructors will guide you through what to expect and how to prepare.

Enrollment Options

CHCP offers both full-time and part-time pathways. Your advisor can help you choose a schedule that fits your goals and responsibilities.

Online Dental Assisting Programs in Texas | Our Locations

The in-person training for our online Dental Assistant Certificate Program is available at every CHCP Texas campus apart from San Antonio North. These campuses are strategically located in major metropolitan cities that each come with an array of healthcare opportunities and unique atmospheres. The following locations offer on-campus training for our online dental assisting program.

More About the Online Dental Assistant Program

Enrolling in an online program is a big step, and it should feel like the right one. CHCP’s Dental Assisting Certificate offers structure, support, and scheduling that respects where you're coming from—and where you want to go.

Program Length & Credit Overview

The Dental Assisting Certificate Program is structured to be completed in approximately 48 weeks. During that time, you’ll move through a thoughtfully organized curriculum that begins with core concepts, builds into practical application, and ends with real-world experience in a dental setting. The program’s 823 clock hours, or 38.5 semester credits, are generally divided as follows:

453 hours of self-paced online coursework and lectures
210 hours of hands-on skills labs, held on designated weekends at CHCP campuses
A 160-hour externship, offering direct experience in a clinical setting

Prerequisites & Application Requirements

To apply for CHCP’s Online Dental Assistant Certificate Program, you’ll need:

A high school diploma or GED
To be at least 18 years old by the time you start
A passing score of 13 or higher on the Scholastic Level Exam (SLE)
English reading and writing proficiency
Completion of an admissions interview

Participation in lab weekends and externships will also require up-to-date health documentation. Students should be prepared to travel to a CHCP campus for scheduled hands-on training sessions.

Institutional Accreditation

CHCP is institutionally accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES), a specialized accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education for health education.

Connect with an Admissions Advisor

Financial aid options are available to those who qualify, and our financial aid team is here to help you explore scholarships, federal assistance, and other resources.

CHCP Admissions

Tuition & Financial Planning for the Dental Assisting Certificate Program

Education is an investment, and we’re here to help you plan wisely. CHCP’s Net Price Calculator provides a personalized estimate of program costs based on your individual financial situation.

Tuition information is available through our official Catalog and Campus Addenda. Costs may vary by location, and your admissions advisor can help clarify what applies to your program.

Find the Career of Your Dreams

You know where you’re headed. CHCP keeps the process simple, with personalized guidance available from the moment you apply.

Apply Now

On-Campus Program

"I cannot say enough amazing things about this school and the instructors! I graduated from the Medical Assistant Program and let me just say, no matter who my instructor was, they took the time and effort to make sure we understood exactly what was being taught."

Amanda P. — CHCP Graduate

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Online Dental Assisting Certificate Program

Classes Start November 2nd