Long Island Dental Assistant Programs
Long Island Dental Assistant Programs: Fast-Track Your Healthcare Career Close to Home
Long Island offers excellent opportunities for students looking to break into the dental field quickly and affordably. With strong job demand, competitive salaries, and multiple program options, becoming a dental assistant on Long Island can be a smart and stable career choice.
Why Choose Dental Assisting on Long Island?
High Job Demand: The growing population across Nassau and Suffolk counties means dental offices are constantly hiring support staff.
Fast Entry to Workforce: Most programs can be completed in less than a year.
Strong Salaries: Certified dental assistants in Long Island can earn between $45,000 and $65,000, especially with experience and radiology certification.
Top Dental Assistant Programs on Long Island
1. Farmingdale State College (SUNY) – Farmingdale, NY
Offers a Dental Assistant Certificate through Continuing Education
Focus on hands-on training and dental radiology
Highly respected SUNY-affiliated program
Strong local job placement support
Website: farmingdale.edu
2. Eastern Suffolk BOCES – Bellport, NY
Offers an ADA-accredited dental assisting program
Day and evening classes available
Includes dental radiology and infection control certification
Website: esboces.org
3. Western Suffolk BOCES – Dix Hills, NY
900-hour Dental Assisting Program
Includes internship placement and radiology training
Well-known for hands-on, practical instruction
Website: wsboces.org
4. Hunter Business School – Levittown, NY
Offers a Dental Assistant Diploma Program (9 months)
Emphasizes clinical skills, front office software, and radiology
National certification preparation included
Website: hunterbusinessschool.edu
5. Nassau BOCES – Westbury, NY
Career and Technical Education programs for adults and high school students
Prepares for New York State licensure and DANB certification
Website: nassauboces.org
Key Curriculum Topics
Chairside assisting and sterilization
Dental X-ray techniques (with NYS certification)
Dental anatomy and procedures
Patient record management
Infection control and OSHA compliance
Internship in a dental office
Final Thoughts
Long Island’s dental assistant programs offer a flexible, affordable route into a fast-growing healthcare field. Whether you're fresh out of high school or looking for a career switch, these schools provide practical training with strong ties to local employers. Certified graduates often land jobs quickly in general dentistry, orthodontics, and surgical specialties.
Lastly, if you’re looking for a real, stable, and respected career—not just a quick way into the workforce—becoming a licensed dental assistant is the way to go. And when it comes to training, The New York School for Medical and Dental Assistants stands out as the premier institution in the state. It’s the smart choice for anyone ready to invest in a future in healthcare.