How to Become a Dental Assistant in Raleigh, NC: Your Step-by-Step Guide
- Wendy Creel
- Sep 19
- 2 min read
If you’re searching for how to become a dental assistant in Raleigh, you’re not alone. Dental assisting is one of the fastest-growing healthcare careers in the Triangle, and Raleigh is home to excellent opportunities for students entering the field. Here’s a clear breakdown of the steps most people take to get started — and why Triangle School of Dental Assisting (TSDA) is a top local option.
Step 1: Meet the Basic Requirement
You’ll need a high school diploma or GED before you can start working as a dental assistant in North Carolina. This applies statewide, including in Raleigh.
Step 2: Choose Your Training Path
There are several ways to begin your career as a dental assistant in Raleigh:
On-the-Job Training → DA I Some dental offices hire and train assistants directly. While this can get you started, many practices prefer candidates who already have formal training.
15-Week Program → DA I At TSDA, students complete a focused 15-week program with hands-on training in radiology, infection control, CPR, HIPAA, and nitrous oxide monitoring. Small class sizes and a dedicated facility give students confidence to step right into Raleigh offices.
Community College → DA II Community colleges like Wake Tech offer CODA-accredited programs that can lead to DA II eligibility, though they take 8–12 months full-time and cost more.
Step 3: Gain Experience and Advance
Most Raleigh dental assistants start as DA I and then work toward DA II eligibility over time. After about two years of full-time experience (3,000 hours), plus completing required courses, DA I assistants can advance to DA II status.
Step 4: Take Advantage of Local Job Demand
Dental assistants in Raleigh earn around $23/hour on average, with entry-level DA I positions often starting between $18–$22/hour. The Triangle region (Raleigh, Cary, Durham, Apex) has strong demand, meaning opportunities for well-trained assistants remain steady.
Why TSDA Is a Raleigh Favorite
Just 15 weeks from start to finish
Day and evening classes available (2 days per week)
Dedicated training facility in North Raleigh (not a rented office)
Nearly 700 local graduates
Resume coaching + job placement assistance
Locally owned and operated — not a franchise
Want to see how TSDA stacks up against other options? Compare dental assisting programs in Raleigh.
Curious where our graduates are now? Read their success stories here.
Ready to Begin?
Becoming a dental assistant in Raleigh doesn’t have to take a year — or cost a fortune. Whether you want to start quickly or build a long-term career path, TSDA offers flexible scheduling, hands-on training, and strong local connections to help you succeed.