Full-day
3 weeks
Monday–Friday
8:00 am–5:00 pm
An immersive, accelerated schedule.
View start dates
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Registered Dental Assisting
Chairside skills, x-rays and infection control for Tennessee dental offices.
About the program
Our flagship program prepares you to work chairside with dentists: preparing operatories, taking radiographs, assisting with procedures and keeping patients comfortable.
What you'll learn
- Four-handed chairside assisting & instrument transfer
- Dental anatomy, terminology & tooth numbering
- Infection control, sterilization & OSHA practices
- Dental radiography, digital x-rays & radiation safety
- Impressions, model pouring & patient charting
- Restorative procedures, crown preparation & oral surgery
- Patient communication & post-operative care
- Medical emergencies, vital signs & CPR
Upcoming sessions
Oct 17, 2026 – Feb 6, 2027
15-Week Saturday · Sat · 8:00AM–5:00PM
Oct 19, 2026 – Nov 6, 2026
3-Week Day · Mon–Fri · 8:00AM–5:00PM
Oct 19, 2026 – Dec 3, 2026
7-Week Mid-Day · Mon–Thu · 9:00AM–1:30PM
Oct 26, 2026 – Nov 13, 2026
3-Week Day · Mon–Fri · 8:00AM–5:00PM
Oct 26, 2026 – Dec 10, 2026
7-Week Mid-Day · Mon–Thu · 9:00AM–1:30PM
Oct 27, 2026 – Feb 4, 2027
15-Week Evening (Tue/Thu) · Tue/Thu · 5:30PM–9:30PM
Nov 2, 2026 – Dec 17, 2026
3-Week Day · Mon–Fri · 8:00AM–5:00PM
Nov 2, 2026 – Dec 17, 2026
7-Week Mid-Day · Mon–Thu · 9:00AM–1:30PM
Learn around your life
Four ways to start dental assisting.
Mid-day
7 weeks
Monday–Thursday
9:00 am–1:30 pm
Training that leaves afternoons free.
View start datesEvening
15 weeks
Tuesday & Thursday
5:30 pm–9:30 pm
Build new skills after your workday.
View start datesSaturday
15 weeks
Saturday
8:00 am–5:00 pm
Keep your weekdays for work and life.
View start datesFrom training to registration.
Build your knowledge of dental procedures, safety and patient care. TNPTI’s dental curriculum includes radiography and CPR preparation, with guidance on the Tennessee Board of Dentistry registration process.
Official transcripts or GED documentation and background eligibility are required. The program catalog identifies black scrubs and the Modern Dental Assisting textbook as required supplies. Admissions will confirm the current supply list and Board requirements before you enroll.
Completing training does not guarantee state registration or employment. Board approval is a separate process.
Your questions, answered.
How long is the dental assisting program?
Choose the 3-week full-day, 7-week mid-day, 15-week evening or 15-week Saturday format. Holiday schedules may vary; check your chosen session for exact dates.
What will I practice in class?
Chairside assisting, instrument transfer, sterilization, dental radiography, impressions, charting and patient care. The training facility uses actual dental equipment in a supportive learning environment.
What do I need to enroll?
Applicants must be at least 18, have a high school diploma or GED, and meet background requirements. Admissions will explain the required official documents and Tennessee Board of Dentistry requirements.
Is tuition listed upfront?
Registered Dental Assisting tuition is $4,999. A separate $95.15 Tennessee Board licensing application fee is identified in the program information. Ask admissions to confirm required books, scrubs, fees and your payment agreement.
Will completing the course guarantee a job or license?
No. Training supports your preparation for dental office work and the state registration process. State registration is subject to Board requirements and approval; employment is not guaranteed.