The PCI Health Training Center in Richardson, Texas, offers a Dental Assisting program designed to equip students with essential skills for roles in dental offices, including chairside assistance, X-rays, and administrative tasks. The program runs for nine months, blending classroom and hands-on training with a final externship for real-world experience.
Program Overview
Curriculum
The program curriculum at PCI is structured to provide both theoretical and practical knowledge. Classroom sessions cover essential topics like dental anatomy, radiology, and preventive care, preparing students for tasks they’ll encounter in a dental office. PCI instructors, experienced in the dental field, guide students through hands-on lab exercises, where they practice basic dental procedures, learn instrument use, and work with materials used in daily operations.
Hands-On Lab Training
In PCI’s labs, students can practice chairside skills, X-ray techniques, and learn to assist dentists directly. These hands-on sessions are crucial for building confidence and familiarity with dental procedures. PCI also includes an externship toward the end of the program, providing experience in a real dental office setting and an opportunity to apply skills under supervision.
Prerequisites
- Age: Must be at least 18 years old
- Education: High school diploma or GED
Program Schedule
The nine-month program is offered weekdays from 9 am to 2 pm, making it suitable for students who can attend daytime classes. This schedule allows for an immersive, full-time experience without weekend or evening commitments.
Tuition and Financial Aid
The program costs $15,915, covering tuition, registration, and books. Financial aid is available for qualifying students, and PCI provides assistance in exploring aid options, including private monthly payment plans that help make the program more affordable.
Certification and Job Placement
Graduates are prepared to take the Texas Registered Dental Assistant Certification Exam. PCI also supports students with job placement services, including resume building, interview coaching, and job search strategies. PCI’s reputation and accreditation by the ACCSC further support its graduates in finding employment.
Reasons to Consider PCI Health Training Center
PCI offers a structured, skill-based approach to dental assisting, blending classroom knowledge with practical application. The nine-month duration and externship allow for comprehensive preparation. A drawback is the program’s full-time, daytime schedule, which may be challenging for students with other commitments. However, PCI’s supportive learning environment and job placement assistance make it an excellent choice for those seeking a strong start in dental assisting.
| Category | Description |
| Cost | $15,915 |
| Program Duration | 9 months |
| Class Schedules | Monday to Friday, 9 am – 2 pm |
| Classes Offered | Dental Assisting, Dental Hygienist Assistant, Dental Receptionist |
| Admission Requirements | High school diploma or GED, must be 18 years or older |
| Online Classes? | No |
| Job Placement? | Yes, includes job search assistance, resume support, and interview coaching |
| Financial Aid Options | Available for those who qualify, including monthly payment plans |
| Location | 1300 International Parkway, Richardson, TX 75081 |
| Phone | (469) 299-8974 |
| [email protected] | |
| Website | https://www.idtc.center/dentalprograms |
So Many Options!
We’ve done the work of putting together all the programs and all the information—now you can compare and contrast all of Dallas’s top schools.