When it comes to choosing a dental assisting program, many people assume a longer course automatically means more training or better preparation. But that’s not always the case. At Dental Staff School of Tennessee, with over 20 years of experience training future Registered Dental Assistants, we know that how you train matters more than how long you train.
1. Hands‑On Focus Beats Time on a Calendar
Some programs stretch over 12 weeks or more but spend much of that time in lecture or virtual formats. At DSSTN, our 10-week program is built around in-person, hands‑on training from the very beginning. Students don’t just sit through slides, they’re actively learning by doing.
From taking impressions and pouring models to mastering moisture control, practicing composite steps, passing instruments, learning proper sterilization procedures and learning radiology, our students are getting hours of real-world practice that prepares them for the job.
2. Repetition and Structure Create Confidence
More weeks on paper doesn’t guarantee more experience. What truly builds confidence is a structured, skill-focused curriculum with intentional repetition and feedback. Our 10-week model has been refined over two decades to deliver the hands-on repetition students need, without dragging it out unnecessarily.
3. Real-World Training, Not Just Classroom Theory
Dental assisting is a physical, fast-paced, skill-based job and that’s how we train. Our students are in a clinical setting every week, learning the pace and expectations of a real dental practice. That hands-on exposure makes all the difference when it comes time to start working.
4. Certification Prep Built Into the Program
Some programs tack on exam prep at the end. At DSSTN, exam prep is integrated from day one. Each week builds on the last, reinforcing both practical skills and academic understanding—so by the time the RDA exam comes around, students feel prepared and confident.
5. A Better Student Experience
Longer doesn’t always mean better support or more attention. Our 10-week format allows us to keep class sizes small and instruction personal. Students receive one-on-one feedback, encouragement, and guidance from instructors who truly care. We’re proud of the strong community we’ve built and the relationships that continue long after graduation.
Proven Results That Speak for Themselves
Why does the DSSTN model work?
- 20+ years of training RDAs across Tennessee
- Focused, in-person hands-on learning every week
- Small class sizes and accessible instructors
- High pass rates and strong job placement support
- Trusted reputation across the dental community
We’ve trained hundreds of successful dental assistants, and we’ve fine-tuned our program to get students workforce-ready in just 10 weeks. It’s not about spending more time, it’s about making the time count.
If you’re ready to start a career where your hands-on skills matter, and you want training that’s efficient, supportive, and proven, DSSTN is ready for you!