MINT Dental Assistant Academy

MINT Dental Assistant Academy in New Albany, Indiana, is an educational institution dedicated to providing rapid and comprehensive training for aspiring dental assistants. Its core offering is an intensive 7-week program, which includes 136 hours of both lecture-based learning and practical, hands-on clinical training. A distinctive feature of this academy is that its classes are conducted directly within a functioning dental practice, offering students an immersive and realistic learning environment. This setup allows students to become familiar with the actual dynamics of a dental office, providing invaluable real-world exposure from day one. The curriculum is meticulously designed by experienced dentists and dental assistants to cover all essential skills required for an entry-level dental assistant. Key topics include sterilization and infection control, dental instruments and tray set-ups, moisture control, restorative procedures, dental anatomy, lab and impression techniques, digital radiology, proper oral hygiene, preventative care, charting (digital and paper), four-handed assisting techniques, BLS/CPR, pain management, patient care, dental terminology, and dental software training. The program also incorporates state-required training and a mandatory 40-hour externship, which can be completed at a local dental office or, for qualified students, at one of MINT Dentistry's locations. MINT Dental Assistant Academy prides itself on offering a cost-effective alternative to longer, more expensive traditional dental assisting programs, often providing a MINT Dentistry Scholarship to reduce tuition costs. While it does not accept federal financial aid to keep the program short and affordable, it offers interest-free payment plans. The academy emphasizes small class sizes, typically with only 10 students per session, ensuring personalized attention from instructors who often have extensive experience in the dental field. Graduates receive a Dental Assistant Certificate of Completion, along with BLS CPR Certification and RHS Training Course (Pre-Test Training). Career prospects for graduates are positive, with dental assistants being in high demand. The academy assists with job placement and offers potential direct employment opportunities within MINT Dentistry, a rapidly growing dental company with numerous locations across several states. This connection provides a direct pathway for graduates to enter the workforce. The program is ideal for individuals seeking a fast-track into a stable healthcare career with opportunities for growth and a balanced work-life schedule, given that most dental offices operate during traditional weekday hours.