Receive your high school diploma. A high school diploma or its equivalency is required to become a dental assistant. Courses that will be helpful for your future career as a dental assistant include science courses like biology, chemistry, and health, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Courses that teach about office practices would also be helpful.
Do a search online for community and junior colleges that offer programs in dental assisting and universities that offer associate's degrees in dental assisting. Visit each school's website to find out if they offer online courses. Make a list of the schools that meet the criteria that's important to you, such as the cost of tuition, the classes offered or the time it takes to receive a degree.
Contact an academic adviser and the financial aid department for each school on your list and ask any questions you may have. Be sure to ask about the resources available for students taking courses online since you won't have the benefit of talking with your professor in person.
Make a list of pros and cons for each school. Choose the school that best meets your educational and financial requirements and enroll in the dental assistance program that's offered.
Try to gain some experience working in an office while you complete the online program. Because you're taking classes online, you won't have the benefit of hands-on learning. Working or volunteering in an office before applying for a dental assistant position will give you knowledge of basic equipment and how an office runs and will better prepare you for your future career.
Ask your academic adviser about license and registration requirements for dental assistants in your state. Your adviser can help you schedule any necessary exams and obtain any licenses required by your state after completing the dental assisting program.