Are you ready to start your journey toward becoming a certified dental assistant but don’t want to be tied down by rigid class schedules or overwhelming tuition fees? Good news: it’s now entirely possible to earn your dental assistant certification online in as little as four to six months, and often for less than $2,000.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the complete process—from understanding what dental assistant certification actually is to choosing the right online training program that will set you up for a successful healthcare career.
Why Become a Dental Assistant?
Dental assisting is one of the fastest-growing professions in healthcare. Let’s look at why this career is both promising and practical.
Earning Potential
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average salary for dental assistants is approximately $46,000 per year. For a career you can start in under a year, that’s a solid income—especially when you consider there’s no need for a four-year degree.
Job Security
The BLS projects an 8% growth rate for dental assistant jobs through 2033, translating to over 55,000 job openings each year. With increased demand for dental services, more practices are looking to expand their teams by hiring trained and certified assistants.
The Truth About Dental Assistant Certification
Before diving into online training options, it’s important to understand what dental assistant certification actually means.
Certification Is Not the Same as Completion
A common misconception is that finishing a training program automatically grants certification. That’s not the case.
To become a Certified Dental Assistant (CDA), you need to pass a standardized certification exam, most notably the National Entry-Level Dental Assistant (NEDA) exam administered by the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB).
This certification involves passing three component exams, and it validates your knowledge and skills for potential employers.
Why Certification Matters
Certified dental assistants often earn up to 10% more than their non-certified peers, and many employers now require certification. It assures them you’ve been vetted by a nationally recognized authority and are equipped to handle the demands of a dental practice.
Steps to Becoming a Certified Dental Assistant Online
Becoming a dental assistant can be broken down into three clear steps:
Step 1: Complete Formal Dental Assistant Training
Choose a training program that:
- Prepares you for certification
- Offers flexible, self-paced learning
- Comes from an accredited source
Step 2: Pass the NEDA Certification Exam
Once your training is complete, you’ll need to take and pass all three components of the exam.
Step 3: Gain Hands-On Experience
While not always required for certification, hands-on experience makes your resume stand out. This can come from:
- Externships
- Job assistance programs
- Entry-level dental assistant roles
Comparing Traditional and Online Programs
Let’s compare your two main options for dental assistant training:
Traditional On-Campus Programs
Pros:
- Often provide a university-issued certificate
- In-person learning and lab access
Cons:
- Tuition often exceeds $10,000
- Fixed class schedules
- Long duration (9–12 months)
- Extra costs (textbooks, commuting, childcare)
These programs can be inaccessible for busy adults juggling jobs or families.
Online Programs
Pros:
- Flexible and self-paced
- Learn from home
- Usually faster (4–6 months)
- Lower cost
Cons:
- Some are not accredited
- May not prepare you for certification
- Some lack hands-on training or externship support
- Some still require fixed Zoom class times
Red Flags to Watch for in Online Programs
When choosing an online dental assistant certification program, avoid the following pitfalls:
1. Lack of Accreditation
Make sure the program is backed by an accredited university or institution. Employers will take your education more seriously.
2. Not Certification-Focused
Some programs don’t align with DANB’s guidelines, which means you may not be eligible to take the NEDA exam after completing your training.
3. Hidden Costs and Fees
Some programs charge up to $5,000 without offering university certificates or externship opportunities.
4. Fixed Schedules in an “Online” Program
If you’re still required to log into scheduled Zoom lectures, the flexibility advantage is lost.
5. No Hands-On Training Opportunities
Without an externship or job placement assistance, it may be harder to break into the field, even with a certificate.
What to Look for in a Great Online Program
A quality online dental assistant training program should meet the following criteria:
- 100% Online and Self-Paced
Learn on your schedule—no live class commitments. - Accredited and University-Affiliated
Look for programs in partnership with recognized nonprofit universities. - Aligned with NEDA Certification
The curriculum should prepare you specifically for the three DANB exam components. - Hands-On Experience Opportunities
Whether through externships or job placement help, real-world practice is essential. - Fast and Focused
No unnecessary fluff—just the knowledge and skills required to get hired. - Affordable Tuition
Ideally under $2,000 with no surprise fees.
Introducing the Preppy Approach
If you’re overwhelmed by the search for a perfect program, there’s good news: a solution already exists. It’s called the Preppy Approach.
What Is Preppy?
Preppy is an online, self-paced dental assistant training program that ticks all the boxes listed above.
Key Features:
- 100% online learning—study anytime, anywhere
- Accredited university certificate upon completion
- Focused curriculum aligned with DANB certification requirements
- Fast completion—finish in as little as four months
- Externship and job assistance to gain experience
- Affordable tuition—under $2,000
Thousands of students, including working adults and parents, have successfully used Preppy to launch dental careers without sacrificing their current responsibilities.
Final Thoughts: Choosing Your Path
At this point, you have two choices:
Option 1: DIY Research
Spend weeks researching programs, comparing costs, checking accreditation, and making sure each one meets all the necessary criteria.
Option 2: Choose a Proven System
The Preppy approach is a proven, structured path that thousands have already used successfully. It’s designed for busy adults who want a quality education, fast certification prep, and real job-readiness—without the usual roadblocks.
Ready to Take the First Step?
If you’re serious about starting your dental assistant career and want to do it the smart, efficient, and affordable way, the Preppy program could be the perfect fit.
Also read: Preppy Surgical Tech Program – Working Adult Switches to New Career – Preppy.org Reviews
About:
Preppy was founded by higher education expert, Grant Aldrich, who’s work on college affordability and accessibility has been featured in Forbes, Bloomberg Businessweek, Business Insider, American Express, AOL, MSN, Thrive Global, Reader’s Digest, Inside Higher Ed, Evolllution, EducationDive, and nearly 100 radio shows and podcasts.
Time is money. Instead of programs that could take 2 years, Preppy provides you education in a few months through immersive online training.
Healthcare, IT, Business, Trades…Preppy gets you ready for the trending careers in our modern economy.
Our team of higher education and startup veterans have created the best solution so everyone can obtain the emerging careers of today and tomorrow.
We look forward to speaking with you. You may also call 800-729-1317.
