ACC offers a variety of streamlined programs so you can start making a difference sooner. Here’s what you should know about training to become a Dental Assisting vs. Surgical Technology at ACC.
You can also take the ACC healthcare career quiz to discover which role aligns with your interests and goals.
| Dental Assisting | |
|---|---|
|
Complete in as little as 10 months |
|
Available in: |
Los Angeles, Ontario, and Orange County (Anaheim) |
Program type: |
Diploma |
Days on campus: |
2 days in-person with coursework online |
Sample courses: |
Restorative Dentistry/Pharmacology |
Externship hours: |
180 hours |
Exam prep: |
Option to pursue California Radiation Safety Certificate (limited to dental x-ray) |
Tuition: |
|
Enrollment requirements: |
Must be at least 18 or have a parent’s or guardian’s signature |
| Surgical Technology | |
|---|---|
|
Complete in as little as 20 months |
|
Available in: |
Los Angeles, Ontario, and Orange County (Anaheim) |
Program type: |
Associate degree |
Days on campus: |
2 days in-person with coursework online |
Sample courses: |
Restorative Dentistry/Pharmacology |
Externship hours: |
540 hours |
Exam prep: |
Become eligible for the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) Exam |
Tuition: |
|
Enrollment requirements: |
Must have a high school diploma or the equivalent |

Ontario Campus: Voted Best Career College in the 2025 Inland Valley Daily Bulletin Readers Choice Awards.

LA Campus: Voted Best Career College in the 2025 LA Daily News Readers Choice Awards.

OC Campus: Voted Best Career College in the 2025 San Gabriel Valley Tribune Readers Choice Awards.