Diploma
Dental Assistant Program - Intra-Oral Level I & II
Brighten smiles in a growing profession | NDAEB Exam Eligible
START DATE: September 28, 2026
TRAINING HOURS: 1245 Hours
CAMPUS: North York – 265 Yorkland Blvd
Program Overview
Become a certified dental assistant with our Dental Assistant Program that combines two levels of certification – Intra-Oral Level I and II.
Our program prepares you to provide oral health services in various dental practice settings, allowing you to work as part of a dental team to solve medical and dental emergencies, assist with dental procedures, and participate in patient education efforts.
Graduates become eligible for the NDAEB exam and receive complimentary ODAA membership.
Quick Facts
Location: North York — 265 Yorkland Blvd
Credential: Diploma (Intra-Oral Level I and II)
Duration: 51 Weeks (1,245 hours)
Courses
Student Success Strategies
25 Hours
This course helps students develop skills for success, including goal setting, time management, critical thinking, study strategies, stress and test management, and financial and wellness awareness.
Introduction to Dental Assisting & Terminology
25 Hours
This course introduces students to the dental assisting profession, including professional roles, clinic safety, OHSA guidelines, four-handed dentistry, and essential dental terminology.
Oral Facial Science
75 Hours
This course covers the anatomy, embryology, and microscopic structure of the head, neck, and oral tissues, including dentition, general anatomy and physiology, and Black's classifications.
Dental Materials and Safety
50 Hours
This course covers the theory and use of dental materials in preventive and restorative care, including their properties, safe handling, hazardous materials management, MSDS guidelines, and injury prevention.
Dental Microbiology and Infection Control
50 Hours
This course introduces fundamental microbiology and infection control, covering pathogens, disease transmission, immunity, and clinical procedures to prevent infection in dental settings.
Dental Radiography Principles
100 Hours
This course covers the basics of dental radiation, including its history, equipment, film exposure and processing, patient management, radiograph mounting, quality assurance, and relevant regulations.
Introduction to Computers
50 Hours
This course introduces students to computer concepts in hardware, software, networking, security, programming, databases, emerging technologies, and ethical issues while teaching practical skills in information research and common applications such as word processing, spreadsheets, and web development.
Preventative Dentistry
75 Hours
This course covers oral health promotion, education techniques, behavioral change, health determinants, communication, individualized hygiene, nutrition, and community-based oral care.
Principles of Dental Record Keeping
45 Hours
This course covers dental records, charting, treatment planning, and the importance of standards, quality assurance, and ethics.
Laboratory Procedures
50 Hours
This course covers dental laboratory procedures, including chairside assisting, impressions, study casts, custom trays, whitening trays, and provisional restorations.
Oral Pathology
25 Hours
This course integrates oral and general pathology, covering disease principles, tissue response, immunology, wound healing, clinical features, and oral manifestations with an emphasis on common conditions.
Principles of Dental Assisting I – Operative
125 Hours
This course covers restorative dentistry, emphasizing the dental assistant's role in operative procedures, chairside assisting, instruments, materials, and effective teamwork with the dentist.
Midterm Theory Exam
5 Hours
Students will be examined on their theoretical knowledge from Terms I and II.
Principles of Dental Assisting II – Dental Specialties
75 Hours
This course provides an overview of dental specialties, covering conditions, techniques, materials, instrumentation, and the dental assistant's role in each area.
Principles of Dental Assisting III – Clinical
25 Hours
This course focuses on chairside assisting in dental specialties, including prosthodontics, orthodontics, pediatrics, periodontics, oral surgery, endodontics, and the care of medically compromised patients.
Dental Office Procedures
50 Hours
This course covers dental office management and employability skills, including communication, records management, scheduling, insurance, accounting, inventory control, and computer-based office procedures.
Pharmacology & Medical Emergencies
50 Hours
This course covers dental drug administration, drug classifications, common adverse reactions, and the prevention and management of medical emergencies in the dental office.
Practicum I
60 Hours
Students will apply their theoretical knowledge in a practical clinical setting under the supervision of a dentist and the dental team.
Level I Comprehensive Practical & Theory
25 Hours
Students will be evaluated on both their theoretical knowledge and practical skills acquired during Level I of the program.
Career Employment Strategies
25 Hours
This course develops communication and job search skills, including resume preparation, interview techniques, identifying employment opportunities, and presenting transferable skills effectively.
Principles of Oral Care
50 Hours
Students apply preventive dentistry theory in a clinical setting while demonstrating effective communication and individualized oral hygiene techniques.
Pre-Patient Care
45 Hours
This course allows students to practice intraoral dental assisting techniques on classmates, develop ethical decision-making and problem-solving skills, and achieve competency before treating patients.
Patient Care
75 Hours
This course develops intraoral dental assisting skills for direct patient care while emphasizing ethical decision-making, problem-solving, and the application of knowledge gained throughout the program.
Final Comprehensive Theory Exam
5 Hours
Students will be examined on their theoretical knowledge from all aspects of the Dental Assistant program.
Practicum II
60 Hours
Students will continue applying their theoretical knowledge in a supervised clinical setting with a dentist and dental team while further developing and practicing their Level I skills.
Admission Requirements
Admission Requirements: OSSD or equivalent (international credentials must be verified by authority such as World Educational Services (WES), or, if over 18, a mature student test.
Placement Requirements: Vulnerable sector check; Signed Medical Disclaimer form and report.
How Our Dental Assistant Program Works
Cestar College’s NDAEB-approved Intra-Oral Level I and II Dental Assisting program is designed to thoroughly prepare you for the diverse responsibilities of a dental assistant. The program’s curriculum combines classroom learning with the practical, hands-on training you need to succeed and thrive as a top dental assistant in this growing profession. Students gain comprehensive skills in administration tasks, patient preparation, chairside dental assisting, preventative dentistry, restorative dentistry, and other essential oral health services.
Our program includes 590 hours of theory, 535 hours of practical experience and a 120-hour practicum, ensuring you’re confident and competent in a clinical setting. The program also features HARP-approved dental radiography training, equipping you with critical skills for modern dental practices. Upon graduation, students are eligible for the National Dental Assisting Examining Board (NDAEB) examination. Passing this exam opens up career opportunities across the country.
In addition, our students receive a complimentary Ontario Dental Assistants Association (ODAA) membership to support your professional journey. A successful dental assistant is a vital part of any dental team, and our program helps you become that essential professional, ready to contribute to a welcoming environment where patients receive quality care.
Industry Demand
Projected job openings (2024-2033)
18,300
Source: Occupations.esdc.gc.ca
Salary Highlights
Level I Dental Assistant
HOURLY: $20–$23
ANNUAL: $41,600–$47,800
Projected job openings (2024-2033)
HOURLY: $25–$32
ANNUAL: $59,500–$72,500
Sources: JobBank.gc.ca, Indeed.ca
Contact us today to learn more about starting your dental assisting career.
Employment Landscape for Dental Assistants in Ontario
Ontario's healthcare system continues to expand, creating strong demand for trained dental assistants across the province. As more clinics adopt modern technology and more Ontarians access preventative oral healthcare, employers are actively seeking Level I and Level II dental assistants who can support dentists, manage patient care, and assist with chairside procedures.
Ontario Job Market Snapshot (2025–2030)
- Consistent hiring demand across Toronto, Mississauga, Scarborough, Brampton, North York, and surrounding suburbs
- Stable full-time opportunities in both private and group dental practices
Why Employers in Ontario Value Certified Dental Assistants
- Have strong infection-control knowledge
- Understand digital imaging systems
With rising demand for oral healthcare services and a continuous need for trained professionals, certified dental assistants remain an essential part of Ontario's healthcare landscape.
What is the Role of a Level I & II Dental Assistant?
Dental assistants play a vital and versatile role in modern dental practices. Level I and II Dental Assistants support dentists and hygienists during procedures, perform clinical tasks independently, and help maintain smooth clinic operations. Their combined intra-oral and extra-oral skills make them essential members of any dental team.
Level II Dental Assistants perform intra-oral duties such as:
- Taking and developing X-rays
- Polishing teeth and clinical crowns
Chairside Dental Assistants (extra-oral) perform duties such as:
- Scheduling appointments
- Maintaining patient records
Explore Our Dental Facilities
Our students train in state-of-the-art dental labs equipped with modern chairs, digital X-ray units, sterilization stations, dental tools, and simulation equipment that reflect real Ontario clinical environments. These facilities help students build confidence through hands-on practice before entering the workforce.
- Fully equipped dental operatories for hands-on training
- UHARP-approved radiography equipment for dental X-ray practice
What Our Graduates Say
I graduated from the college last year. I had a great experience. Very nice, helpful staff and knowledgeable instructors.
Jenny Vcheraishanski
(Cestar College Graduate)
Is Becoming a Dental Assistant Right for You?
If you're interested in a stable, hands-on healthcare career and want to work directly with patients, Dental Assisting may be the perfect fit for you. Our Intra-Oral Level I and II program prepares you with the clinical, radiography (HARP-approved), and professional skills needed to succeed in Ontario dental clinics.
Complete the form on this page to learn more about tuition, schedules, career outcomes, and how you can start your training.
To speak directly with someone from our admissions team, call us at 416-485-8588
Dental Assistant Level I & II FAQ
What makes this program different from other dental assistant programs?
Launch your dental career in just over a year! With 590 hours of theory, 535 hours of hands-on practical training, and a 120-hour practicum, you’ll gain the confidence and skills to thrive in any clinical setting. Our curriculum also includes HARP-approved dental radiography training, giving you essential expertise for today’s modern dental practices. And when you graduate, you’ll be eligible to take the National Dental Assisting Examining Board (NDAEB) exam—a credential that opens doors to exciting career opportunities across the country!
When is the program offered and what is the schedule?
At this time Cestar offers a Fall (September) intake only; however, applications are accepted throughout the year. Classes are typically offered during daytime hours, but students are encouraged to inquire about evening classes. It’s best to speak with someone on our registration team for information on the schedule planned for our next intake.
Is the program online or in person?
The Dental Assistant program is offered in person in our state-of-the-art lab at 265 Yorkland Blvd. Our campus is conveniently located (near Victoria Park and Sheppard, just North of Hwy 401) and is both TTC and GO accessible.
Why should I choose Cestar College over other institutions?
Cestar College offers high-quality programs that feature small class sizes; streamlined, condensed schedules; and dedicated instructors with extensive experience in their profession. All of our programs include a practical placement for hands-on learning and, because our programs are accelerated, students graduate faster without sacrificing academic depth. Ideal for students looking to enter the workforce sooner, our programs graduate students who are motivated, job-ready, and prepared for success.
Does Cestar college offer financial aid?
All of our programs are OSAP and Better Jobs Ontario eligible. Students are advised to visit the OSAP and Better Jobs Ontario websites to determine whether they qualify for financial assistance through these provincial programs. Additionally, Cestar offers interest free payment plans. Students are encouraged to speak with someone on our registration team to learn more and determine their eligibility.
Can international students apply to Cestar College?
Currently, Cestar College is only accepting applications from Canadian Citizens and Permanent Residents. To learn more, please contact us here.
What is the student life like at Cestar College?
At Cestar College, students can enjoy a vibrant and engaging student life with access to study rooms, student lounges, an on-campus library, and food services, including Tim Hortons! Our campus provides all the necessary amenities for a rewarding and full student experience, in- and outside the classroom.
Where is Cestar College located?
Our campus is located at 265 Yorkland Blvd., near the intersection of Victoria Park and Sheppard, just north of Hwy 401. Cestar College is both TTC and GO Transit accessible. Student parking is available.
Can I schedule a campus tour?
Of course! Our regular hours are Monday through Friday from 8:30 pm – 5:30 pm for campus tours. Evening tours can also be arranged. Contact us here to book a tour.
What is the eligibility criteria to apply?
Students must have an OSSD/High School diploma or equivalent. Students with mature student status (over age 18) without an OSSD or equivalent are required to write an admissions test.