Dental Assisting FAQs – Triangle School of Dental Assisting, Raleigh NC
Our dental assisting program is 15 weeks long, with classes held twice a week. You can choose between day or evening classes to fit your schedule.
Link to application: https://www.triangledentalassisting.com/dental-assisting-application
We offer three start dates per year: January, April, and August. Visit our Home Page to view upcoming class dates.
We’re locally owned and operated, not a franchise or corporate chain. That means personalized attention, small class sizes, and a real commitment to student success. Wendy, our director, is involved in every step of your experience — from instruction to post-graduation support.
Yes! TSDA offers both daytime and evening dental assisting classes in Raleigh. Our evening track meets from 6 PM to 9 PM two nights a week, making it possible to train for a new career while keeping your work or family schedule.
Tuition is $3,600 all-inclusive (or $3,400 if paid in full). That price covers tuition, materials, and certifications (Radiology, Nitrous Oxide Monitoring, CPR), plus the graduation reception. No hidden fees.
Yes — if you choose to pay by credit card, the standard processing fee charged by the card provider will be added to your payment. Cash and check payments are always accepted at no additional cost. Outside of this optional card fee, TSDA tuition is all-inclusive, with no hidden fees or surprise costs.
We don't offer federal financial aid (like FAFSA), but flexible payment options and financing plans are available.
We also offer a $200 discount for students who pay in full by orientation.
Yes. While employment can’t be guaranteed, we provide personalized job search support, including resume development, interview prep, and help connecting with dental offices.
Yes. Upon completion, you'll receive a state-recognized radiology certification, allowing you to legally take x-rays in North Carolina as a Dental Assistant I.
We provide some shadowing and volunteer opportunities and encourage students to pursue them, though they're not guaranteed or required for every student.
No, TSDA is not a nationally accredited school. However, unless you're planning to use this program as part of a formal degree path (like an associate’s or bachelor’s degree), accreditation is not typically necessary.
Our program is designed for immediate workforce entry and is trusted by local dental practices for hands-on training and job readiness.
The first step for most people is completing a Dental Assisting I program like TSDA’s 15-week hands-on training. Our students earn certifications in radiology, infection control, CPR, HIPAA, and nitrous oxide monitoring — credentials that make you job-ready and highly competitive in Raleigh’s dental market. With small class sizes and local job placement support, TSDA prepares you to step confidently into a dental office.
Yes — we offer coronal polishing exclusively to our alumni for just $75 (compared to $325+ at other schools).
A dental assistant works alongside the dentist to prepare patients, take x-rays, sterilize instruments, and support procedures. A dental hygienist provides preventive care like cleanings, screenings, and oral health education — often working more independently with patients.
The training is also different: dental assisting can be completed in as little as 15 weeks at Triangle School of Dental Assisting in Raleigh, while dental hygiene programs in North Carolina typically take 2 or more years.