How long is the Dental Assisting Program?

The Smile Squad Academy Dental Assisting Program is 10 weeks long and combines online coursework with hands-on lab training in Waldorf, Maryland.

When does registration open?

Registration for the next Dental Assisting Program cohort opens on November 15, 2025 at 8:00 AM EST. Seats are limited to 6 students per class.

Where are the lab sessions held?

All hands-on lab sessions are held at our Waldorf, Maryland campus located inside Toothsome Dental at 3350 Middletown Rd, Suite 107A.

Do I receive a certificate after graduation?

Yes. Graduates earn a Certificate in Dental Assisting General Duties recognized in Maryland.

Is financial aid available?

Smile Squad Academy does not currently participate in federal financial aid programs. However, we offer flexible payment plans and limited scholarships for eligible students.

How big are the class sizes?

To ensure individualized instruction and hands-on experience, each class is limited to just 6 students per cohort.

Will my certification transfer to other states?

After completing the program, graduates are eligible to pursue DANB national exams. Certification and licensing requirements vary by state, but DANB credentials are widely recognized across the U.S.

Does Smile Squad Academy help with job placement?

Yes. Our Career Support Team connects students with local dental offices and provides resume coaching, interview prep, and job placement assistance.

Registration Is Now Open For Our August Class!

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24 Hour Maryland Board-approved educational program in dental radiation technology

Dental Radiology Course

(DRC)

Dental Radiology Course (DRC)

Prepare to Legally Take Dental X-Rays in Maryland

Smile Squad Academy’s Dental Radiology Course is a focused 4-week, 24-hour online program designed for dental assistants who want to complete the education and clinical training needed to pursue Maryland Dental Radiation Technologist certification.

Learn dental x-ray safety, intraoral techniques, infection control, Maryland regulations, and DANB RHS exam prep — all through a flexible virtual format built for working dental professionals.

Program Length: 4 Weeks
Format: Online + Approved Externship
Live Class: Tuesdays, 8:30 PM – 9:30 PM
Total Clock Hours: 24
Tuition: $750
Location: Online

Dental assisting students practicing chairside skills

Who This Course Is For

This course is built for dental assistants who are ready to take the next step in their career by becoming eligible to apply for Maryland Dental Radiation Technologist certification.

This program is a strong fit for you if you are:

Currently working in a dental office
Enrolled in or recently completed a dental assisting program
Looking to meet Maryland dental radiology education requirements
Preparing for the DANB Radiation Health and Safety exam
Ready to gain supervised x-ray experience at an approved dental office

What You'll Learn

The Dental Radiology Course gives students the knowledge and clinical foundation needed to take dental radiographs safely, legally, and confidently.

You’ll study:

Radiation physics and x-ray machine basics
kVp, mA, and exposure time
Digital imaging principles
Bitewing and periapical techniques
Paralleling and bisecting angle techniques
Common x-ray errors and how to correct them
Radiation safety and ALARA principles
Infection control for sensors and radiographic equipment
Image evaluation and quality assurance
Maryland dental radiology regulations
DANB RHS exam preparation
Maryland DRT application pathway
And more!!

How the Program Works

1. Learn Online

Students complete lessons, videos, study materials, quizzes, and assignments through Smile Squad Academy’s online learning platform.

2. Attend Weekly Live Virtual Classes

Students meet once per week on Tuesday evenings from 8:30 PM to 9:30 PM for instructor-led review, demonstrations, Q&A, and exam preparation.

3. Complete 9 Externship Hours

Students complete supervised radiology practice at an approved dental office under the direct supervision of a licensed dentist.

4. Earn Your Certificate of Completion

After successfully completing all academic, attendance, externship, and financial requirements, students receive a Smile Squad Academy Certificate of Completion.

What Happens After Graduation?

After completing the Dental Radiology Course, students receive a Certificate of Completion from Smile Squad Academy.

Graduates may then use their completed training as part of the pathway to:

Sit for the DANB Radiation Health and Safety exam
Apply for the Maryland Dental Radiation Technologist Certificate
Become eligible to legally take dental x-rays in Maryland once all state requirements are met

Important: Completion of this course does not automatically issue Maryland DRT certification. Passing the DANB RHS exam also does not automatically issue Maryland certification. Students are responsible for completing all applicable education, examination, application, and certification steps through the appropriate agencies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this course fully online?

How long is the Dental Radiology Course?

When are live classes held?

What is your refund Policy?

How much does the course cost?

Does this course make me certified to take X-rays automatically?

Do I need a dental office for the externship?

What exam does this course help prepare me for?

What do I receive after completing the course?

What do I need to graduate?

Is Smile Squad Academy approved in Maryland?

When are the program start dates

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Dental radiology is one of the most important skills a dental assistant can add to their career. If you’re ready to move toward Maryland DRT certification and become more valuable in the dental office, this course was built for you.