Which Is Better for Dental Assisting? The Dental Assistant School of Rockland vs. Westchester Medical and Dental Assistant Training

If you’re on the lookout for a quality dental assistant school in Westchester, NY, there are a few schools that can launch your career. But, how do you determine which one is better? Take a look below to see a comprehensive comparison between two top contenders: The Dental School of Rockland and Westchester Medical and Dental Assistant Training. 

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The Dental School of Rockland 

First, let’s take a look at the Dental School of Rockland. In business since 2007, the program puts students in an actual office to take their classes and learn hands-on. 

Students get experience with actual materials and instruments and can even practice taking x-rays. Considering that hands-on, or active learning, has proven performance effective in increasing student learning and engagement, the in-office setting is a great aspect of Rockland’s dental assistant program.

The course is ten weeks long. These begin in January, April, and September. 

In addition to hands-on training, courses cover a range of topics, including:

  • Theory and Terminology
  • Front Desk Office Management 
  • Radiology 
  • Impressions and Model Trimming 
  • Cements and Liners 
  • Sterilization Techniques 
  • Job Interview and Placement Assistance 

Upon completion, students receive a certificate. This dental assistant school in Westchester, NY, will also work closely with local professionals looking to fill open positions. 

Westchester Medical and Dental Assistant Training 

Students training at Westchester

This option is yet another great dental assistant school in Westchester, NY. This program combines classroom learning and real-world experience through an externship in a real office. This option is much more detailed and intensive than other schools clocking in at 600-course hours compared to Rockland’s 80 hours. 

The following are all offered by the program: 

  • Radiology 
  • Emergencies 
  • Office Management 
  • Chair Side Assisting 
  • Operatory Procedures 
  • Pharmacology 
  • Infection Control 
  • Charting 
  • Anatomy 

Comparing Rockland vs. Westchester

Both programs offer the necessary skills for this field. However, each has its pros and cons. 

Rockland’s program offers a simplified version of courses during a much shorter time frame. Although they offer a certificate, it is a precursor to a fully accredited program. With this said, it is a great bonus that they work so closely with local dentists respected in the field. 

Westchester is a much more in-depth program. You will need to dedicate more time to this program to accomplish the 600 required hours. However, in the end, you can take the NELDA exam offered by the Dental Assistant Board and become nationally certified, which carries more weight than a program certificate. After graduation, this program also works with employments boards to help graduates get jobs. While this is great, it’s not Rockland’s close direct relationship with dentists themselves. 

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You can’t go wrong choosing one of these options. Decide what works best for you and your goals, and begin your journey!

See also:

Other schools of dental assisting in New York state

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