To get the best dental vocational training, you will first need to decide on which type of dental career you are interested in pursuing. The requirements to become a dentist, dental hygienist, or dental assistant vary greatly and often depend on laws in the jurisdiction where you live. Different schools may have different entry and course completion requirements, and some may have a better reputation than others. Dentists and dental hygienists, in particular, are typically required to be licensed by a government agency before practicing and thus must choose a school recognized by the licensing board in their area. A dental assistant, on the other hand, may be able to obtain most of his or her training while working for a dentist, but may also choose to complete a dental assisting program in order to receive a more comprehensive education.
If you are interested in becoming a dentist, you will typically need to complete an extensive educational program that can last for many years. In the United States, earning a dental degree is typically a matter of completing a postgraduate course in dentistry that last about four years. Those dentists who choose to specialize in various branches of dentistry will have to complete additional training. Before enrolling in a dental school, you may wish to talk to other dentists to find out their opinions on various dental schools. You should also find out whether the schools that interest you have a good reputation and are appropriately accredited to provide dental education in your area.
Dental hygienists often have a bit more flexibility in their educational pursuits. Hygienists, like dentists, are typically licensed professionals who must attend a formal dental vocational training program. Dental hygiene programs often take two years to complete, though some dental hygienists may choose to enroll in a dental hygiene bachelor's degree program or even a postgraduate course. If you are interested in advancing your career as a dental hygienist and eventually going into research or management, you may wish to enroll in a dental vocational training program that lets you earn university credit so that you can transfer this coursework to another program at a later date.
Dental assistants typically perform office management and basic patient care duties in a dentist's office. Unlike hygienists or dentists, a dental assistant may not have to obtain dental vocational training in order to find employment. In many cases, however, you will find that your career options are limited unless you complete a formal training program. Many vocational schools and community colleges offer dental vocational training to those who aspire to be dental assistants. When choosing a program, you should consider the length of time that it takes to complete the course, its cost, and whether your personal schedule will allow you to attend courses on a regular basis so that you can complete the program in a timely manner.
