FAQs
What is the typical salary for a dental assistant?
Graduates can expect to earn between $18–$25 per hour in entry-level dental assistant roles in Maryland. Pay may increase with experience and additional certifications.
Will I receive a License and/or Certification?
Yes! Upon successful completion of the program, you will receive a Dental Assisting Certificate from Smiles Plus Academy. For Dental Radiology, you must pass the Maryland Radiology Board Exam to become certified in radiographic procedures.
Do I need to any previous dental experience to enroll?
No prior dental experience is required. Our program is designed for beginners and will guide you through everything you need to know to start your dental assisting career with confidence.
Is in-office work required during the program?
In-office experience is not required for the general dental assisting portion, but it is required for the Dental Radiology section of the program.
What if I miss class?
We understand that life happens. If you miss a class, we encourage you to reach out to your instructor immediately. Makeup options may be available, but attendance is key for successful course completion. Please note that excessive absences could impact your eligibility for certification.
Will I receive any materials?
Yes, all essential materials are included in your tuition fee. You’ll have everything you need to succeed from day one.
Where is the school located?
Smiles Plus Dental Assisting Academy is conveniently located in Silver Spring, Maryland. We’re easily accessible for students commuting from nearby areas.
Representative Job Titles for Program Graduates
- Hygiene Assistant: Before the hygienist begins cleaning teeth, the hygiene assistant gets the dental patient ready for the procedure. This requires medical knowledge and a confident, reassuring personality.
- Endodontic Assistant: Root canals require a skilled dentist and an equally capable dental assistant.
- Pediatric Assistant: A pediatric assistant works with dentists and directly with children patients.
- General Dental Assistant: A dental assistant assists the dental practice with office tasks and patient care.
Smiles Plus Dental assistant Academy
So, what will you learn?
By the end of the course, students will possess the skills and knowledge that dentists believe are essential for every dental assistant. Here are the main topics we cover:
Dental terminology & equipment
How to assist the dentist during procedures
Proper sterilization and infection control techniques
How to take and develop dental X-rays
Patient care and communication skills
CPR and basic first aid
Principles of dental radiography and radiation safety
How to operate X-ray machines properly
Interpreting basic dental radiographs
2025-2026
List of Holidays
Smiles Plus Dental Assisting Academy observes the following holidays. No classes will be held on these dates. Students will be notified in advance of any changes.
New Year's Day
Martin Luther King Jr. Day
Memorial Day
Independence Day
Labor Day
Thanksgiving Day
Christmas Day
Ready to Start Your Career?
Contact Smiles Plus today to learn how our dental assistant programs can help you launch a rewarding career in Silver Spring, Maryland.