From Jefferson to the classroom
Most Jefferson folks run US-59 south toward Marshall and cut over, or take TX-49 to US-259 — either way it's about 37 miles, roughly 45 minutes. That's commitment, not convenience, so weigh the online option ($397, self-paced) honestly; several students from the lakes country train entirely from home.
Our one and only campus: 2800 Gilmer Rd, Suite 106, Longview, TX 75604 — about 37 miles from Jefferson via US-59 / TX-49. Distances and drive times are approximate; check your own route.
What you'll learn
In-person or online, the curriculum is the same set of skills offices hire for:
- ✓ Charting — reading the tooth chart and recording conditions and treatment accurately.
- ✓ Radiology basics — how dental x-rays work and how they fit into patient care.
- ✓ Chairside assisting — setting up, passing instruments, and supporting the dentist during procedures.
- ✓ Front-office software — the practice-management tools offices use to schedule, chart, and bill.
- ✓ Infection control — sterilization and safety the way real offices run it.
Want to test-drive it before you spend a dollar? The free Texas RDA practice exam and our charting trainer show you exactly what the work feels like.
Pay & funding
We keep tuition straightforward. In-person is $3,000 paid in full, or $500 down on a $3,500 payment plan with simple weekly or monthly payments. Online is a flat $397, self-paced. No surprises and nothing buried in fine print.
Depending on your situation, you may qualify for WIOA workforce funding through your local Workforce Solutions office — we can't promise anything, but we're glad to point you in the right direction. Apply or reach out and we'll talk through your options. Wondering what dental assistants earn in East Texas? See our salary page.
New to dental assisting?
Start with our plain-English guide: How to become a dental assistant in Texas — the requirements, training, registration, cost, and timeline, step by step.
Jefferson-area FAQs
How far is Jefferson from the campus?
About 37 miles — roughly 45 minutes, whether you come down through Marshall or via US-259. The campus is at 2800 Gilmer Rd, Suite 106 in Longview. Evening options exist so the drive doesn't collide with a workday.
Is online training legit for becoming a dental assistant?
Yes — our online program ($397) covers the same curriculum as in-person, self-paced from home. Texas RDA registration requirements (radiology, jurisprudence, infection control) are covered either way; see our Texas RDA guide for the state's official steps.
I work in tourism/hospitality in Jefferson. Why switch?
Dental assisting offers weekday hours, steady year-round demand, and a skill that transfers to any town — things seasonal tourism work rarely promises. It's a common career-change path for exactly that reason.
What's the total cost?
In-person: $3,000 paid in full, or $500 down on a $3,500 payment plan. Online: $397. No hidden fees, and WIOA workforce funding may be an option depending on your situation.
