Pre-Dental Track

Description: A dental assistant works chairside with dentists to prepare patients, hand instruments during procedures, take X-rays, and maintain a clean, organized workspace. They may also manage administrative duties like scheduling appointments and maintaining patient records.

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Required Experience/Certifications: In Oklahoma, many dental assistants start with on-the-job training, but certifications such as Radiography, Coronal Polishing, and Nitrous Oxide Monitoring (through the Oklahoma Board of Dentistry) are often required or preferred. CPR/BLS certification is typically mandatory.

• How to get that experience/certification:

  • Ask local dental offices if they hire entry-level assistants and provide training.

  • Take a dental assisting program at a community college or vocational school for faster certification.

  • Complete required state certifications (e.g., X-ray, coronal polishing) through approved courses.

  • Obtain CPR/BLS certification through the Red Cross or American Heart Association.

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Establishments we recommend you explore:

• Private dental practices in Norman/OKC

• Aspen Dental, Dental Depot, or My Dentist locations in the metro area

Description: An orthodontic assistant supports orthodontists by preparing patients for procedures, changing wires and bands, taking impressions, and managing orthodontic records.

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Required Experience/Certifications: Often requires prior dental assisting experience or completion of a dental assisting program. In Oklahoma, additional certifications (e.g., radiography permit) may be necessary.

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• How to get that experience/certification:

  • Start as a general dental assistant and transition to orthodontics.

  • Complete orthodontic assisting training through professional workshops or your employer.

  • Obtain necessary state permits for radiography or expanded functions.

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Establishments we recommend you explore:

• Private orthodontic practices in Norman/OKC

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Description: A dental lab technician works behind the scenes to create crowns, bridges, dentures, and orthodontic appliances based on dentist specifications.

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Required Experience/Certifications: No formal license required in Oklahoma, but on-the-job training or completion of a dental lab technology program is preferred. Strong attention to detail and manual dexterity are essential.

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• How to get that experience/certification:​

  • Apply for entry-level lab assistant positions in dental labs.

  • Complete a dental laboratory technology program (often 1–2 years) if you want advanced skills.

  • Gain experience with dental CAD/CAM systems to increase job opportunities.

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Establishments we recommend you explore:

• Local dental labs such as Precision Dental Lab or Artistic Dental Studio

• Large labs servicing multiple dental offices in the OKC metro

• In-house dental labs at major dental practices or clinics

Description: A dental sterilization tech is responsible for cleaning, disinfecting, and sterilizing dental instruments, organizing trays for procedures, and ensuring infection control standards are met.

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Required Experience/Certifications: Usually requires only a high school diploma and on-the-job training. CPR/BLS certification may be preferred.

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• How to get that experience/certification:​

  • Apply directly to dental offices for entry-level sterilization roles.

  • Complete infection control training (often provided by the employer).

  • Earn CPR/BLS certification for added employability.

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Establishments we recommend you explore:​

• Large group practices like Dental Depot or Aspen Dental

• Private general or specialty dental offices in Norman/OKC