If you’re ready to start a new career but don’t want to spend years in school (or even months, for that matter), you’re in luck—Houston is home to several accelerated dental assistant programs that can have you career-ready in just 7 to 13 weeks. These fast-paced, hands-on courses are built for go-getters who are ready to jumpstart their journey into the healthcare field without wasting time.
Whether you’re switching careers, re-entering the workforce, or just eager to move forward fast, Houston’s accelerated dental assistant classes combine speed with real-world training. Let’s dig into the fastest programs available—and why they might be the perfect fit for you.
1. Pure Dental Assistant Academy – Houston
Program Length: 7 weeks
Tuition: $3,000 (after scholarship)
If you’re looking for the fastest route to a dental assisting career, Pure Dental Assistant Academy is it. This high-intensity program includes a 40-hour externship, CPR certification, nitrous oxide training, and RDA exam prep—all bundled into just seven weeks. The cherry on top? A $1,000 scholarship knocks the price down from $4,000 to $3,000. Flexible payment plans and hands-on training make this program a favorite for those looking to make moves—fast.
2. Houston Dental Assistant Academy
Program Length: 13 weeks
Tuition: $3,350
With locations throughout Houston, this hybrid program offers online coursework during the week and hands-on training on Saturdays. You’ll be career-ready in just over three months with skills in radiology, chairside assisting, sterilization, and more. The program also offers externship experience and exam prep for your RDA license.
3. Alvin Dental Assistant School
Program Length: 12 weeks
Tuition: $2,950
Affordable and flexible, Alvin Dental Assistant School offers a 12-week hybrid program with one in-person lab each week and the rest completed online. It’s a great pick for anyone juggling work or family responsibilities. The price is one of the lowest in the area, and the program still includes all the core training needed to sit for the Texas RDA exam.
🔍 Find the Right Dental Assistant Program
We’ve researched the top dental assistant programs in Houston—featuring flexible schedules, accelerated formats, and hands-on training. Whether you’re looking for day, evening, or weekend classes, we’ll help you find the right fit to launch your career.
4. Houston Pediatric Dental Assistant School
Program Length: 11 weeks
Tuition: $3,850
Specializing in pediatric dental care, this accelerated program runs for 11 weeks and includes a 40-hour externship. Classes meet on Saturdays, and the curriculum is designed for those who want to work with children. It’s also led by a board-certified pediatric dentist, so students get expert instruction in a focused, supportive setting.
5. C. Mark Mann School of Dental Assisting
Program Length: 10 weeks
Tuition: $3,750
This Saturday-only program is a solid choice for anyone needing structure and flexibility. You’ll train once a week in a hands-on environment, gaining real-world experience while covering all the skills needed to start your dental assisting career in less than three months.
6. Edwards Institute for Dental Assisting
Program Length: 11 weeks
Tuition: $4,999
Though slightly pricier, this program offers radiology certification prep within its standard curriculum—something many others charge extra for. With training led by practicing dental assistants in a real office, students are exposed to the latest tools and techniques used in the field today.
How to Choose the Right Fast-Track Program
With so many options, how do you choose? Here’s what to consider:
Houston’s dental assistant programs make it easier than ever to enter the field quickly, affordably, and confidently. Whether you’re looking to finish in seven weeks or prefer a 10–12 week format with added flexibility, there’s a program out there that matches your timeline and lifestyle.
Check out the full details on each program above and start planning your fast-track path into the world of dental healthcare. You could be scrubbing in and smiling bright in just a few months.