Dental Assisting (Levels I & II) (DENA)

Prepare for a career that combines hands-on patient care, technical skills, and teamwork to make a meaningful impact in oral health care

Get the skills to launch a career as a dental assistant in just one year. You'll start by practicing your skills on mannequins and your classmates in the college's dental clinic. Once you've gained some practical experience, you'll treat real patients in the clinic before completing a placement in a dental office. 

This combination of theory and practice will give you the required knowledge and practical experience through a multi-disciplinary approach working with dental hygienists, dentists, and other health care professionals in the clinical environment and in community placements.

Clinics and some classroom experiences may include evening scheduling. You must complete the in-office practicum as outlined in the program's third semester. You must be prepared to cover the costs incurred in their four-week clinical placement whether in town or out of town.

Program highlights

• Be job-ready in 10 months

• Learn from experienced dental health care professionals in a supportive, hands-on environment

• Gain real-world experience by supporting patients in Cambrian’s on-campus dental clinic and during an off-site practicum

Program of study for 2026-27 Academic Year

Admission requirements

For graduates of the new curriculum (OSS): Ontario Secondary School Diploma (30 credits) or equivalent or mature student status, including:

• Any grade 12 English (C)or (U)
• Any grade 11 (U) or (C) or grade 12 biology (U)

Please note: A minimum of 60% is required in each prerequisite course

Program delivery

2025-2026

Winter term start

SEMESTER 1:  Winter 2026
SEMESTER 2:  Spring 2026
SEMESTER 3:  Fall 2026

College or university degree opportunities  

If you are a graduate of this program, you may continue your studies at a college or university and you may receive credit(s) for your prior college education. Refer to Cambrian's college and university agreement details for further information. 

Employment opportunities

Upon successful completion of the NDAEB examination, graduates may find employment as a Level II Dental Assistant in general and specialty practices, community health settings, dental sales, and dental supply companies.