Dental Assistants are a vital part of the dental team, using specialized skills to help in patient care and organize the dental office.
Greenville Technical College’s highly regarded dental program produces dental assistants who are well-prepared for the workforce, thanks to a combination of classroom instruction, technology that supports what they are learning, and hands-on experiences. In a simulation lab, students practice hand instrumentation on dental tooth models, which provides excellent experience prior to treating patients. Human patient simulators in the college’s Simulation Technologies and Training Center help prepare graduates to handle the unexpected, as they practice responses to patient emergency situations.
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Greenville Technical College dental assisting graduates enter a strong job market with robust regional demand and rapid projected growth.
As vital clinical partners, certified dental assistants enjoy versatile career opportunities providing chairside treatment support, patient care, and digital diagnostics. This rewarding career path primarily includes positions in private dental offices, alongside opportunities in public health departments and dental clinics.
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The Greenville Technical College Dental programs are accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA).
The Dental Assisting program is in good standing and accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation. The program was reaffirmed in 2022 and is fully accredited.
Commission on Dental Accreditation - Third Party Comments Form
Professional Licensure and Certification Requirements
Students who are considering an academic program that may allow them to pursue professional licensure in another state are strongly encouraged to check that state’s information and contact the appropriate licensing agency for additional information and guidance before beginning the program.
Expanded Duty Dental Assisting information by state »
Greenville Technical College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate and baccalaureate degrees. Degree-granting institutions also may offer credentials such as certificates and diplomas at approved degree levels.
Questions about the accreditation of Greenville Technical College may be directed in writing to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033-4097, by calling 404-679-4500, or by using information available on SACSCOC’s website (www.sacscoc.org).
The Dental Assisting program is a 12-month program, with certain prerequisite courses. The admission process for the program is competitive and requires additional steps beyond admission to the college.
| Item | Cost | When Due |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition | Refer to current tuition rates* | Each semester |
| Instrument kit | $1200 | Before beginning Phase II |
| Bookstore supplies (Textbooks, Process Evals, Clinical Packet, etc.) |
$1000* | Before beginning Phase II |
| Uniforms (specific class uniforms and shoes will be required) | $400 | Before beginning Phase II |
| Physical Exam/Immunizations | Cost varies | Before beginning Phase II |
| Criminal Background Check/Drug Screen | Approximately $100 | Before beginning Phase II |
| CPR Certification | Approximately $100 through the American Heart Association | Before beginning Phase II |
| Trips (2 Professional meetings optional) | $250 | Spring semester |
| Student membership to the American Dental Assisting Association (optional) | $55 | Fall semester |
| Dental Assisting National Boards Infection Control (Fall Semester) Radiography (Spring Semester) Chairside (Summer Semester) |
$270 $270 $270 |
First week of indicated semester |
These costs are estimates only. Transportation, meals, laundering of uniforms, etc. are not included.
*Some of these costs may be covered by financial aid.
Dental Assisting Academic Program Director
Michelle Ashley | Michelle.Ashley@gvltec.edu | 864-250-8234
Instructors
Tiffany Carter
Lauren Cisternino
Debra Grubbs
Martha Macaluso
Renee Nelson
Camela Sowers