Workforce Dental Assistant

This entry-level (non-CDA) Workforce Dental Assisting Program prepares students to perform basic dental assisting skills.

This entry-level (non-CDA) Workforce Dental Assisting Program prepares students to perform basic dental assisting skills. This program prepares students to work within Rhode Island as a dental assistant and will qualify students to sit for two out of the three DANB certification examinations. This program is a 14-week full-time program and includes an externship. The main role of the Dental Assistant is to assist the dentist in a variety of office functions.  Responsibilities vary depending upon the office. In most offices the dental assistant plays a large role in four-handed dental assisting, maintaining CDC, OSHA and the Bloodborne Pathogens Standard requirements and are directly involved in the disinfection and the sterilization process.

Prerequisites:

  • Must be 18 years or older
  • Strong interest in working in dental healthcare
  • GED or High School Diploma
  • Ability to pass a criminal background check
  • RI residents preferred, but not required
  • Must commit to working in RI with a focus on Newport County
  • Legally eligible to work in RI

Program Information:

When: September 15 - December 17, 2025, Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday, 9:30am to 4:00pm

Where: Lectures at CCRI Newport Campus

Clinicals at East Bay Community Action Program (EBCAP), Newport, RI

Cost: FREE for qualified participants!

Please check back in December for Spring 2026 course. Complete our Program Inquiry Form below to be added to our program mailing list. 

If interested in applying, please complete our Program Inquiry Form.

Program Inquiry Form

Details

  • Cost - No charge! This program is free for all that qualify and are accepted.

  • Time Commitment - 14 weeks

  • Contact - Laurie Cepeda, For more information, please complete the Program Inquiry Form

The STEM Day Schedule

Have a Question?

Contact Workforce Partnerships

CCRI's Division of Workforce Partnerships works in close collaboration with industry and business leaders to ensure the college’s offerings are meeting both current and future workforce needs.

Contact Workforce Partnerships  

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